Dodgers: 2018 Salary Arbitration Predictions

KIKE HERNANDEZ, Utility, 1st Year Arb Eligible

Kike has served as a valuable utilityman since arriving in Dodger blue in 2015.  In 2017 he only hit .215 but did bash 11 homers during the season (and some really big ones in the postseason), not to be filled all over the diamond with solid defense.  Against left-handed pitchers, he hit .270 with .946 OPS.  In 2018, Kike is expected to serve again as a valuable utility player.

More from LA Dodgers News

• Kevin Kiermaier being ‘top target’ to replace Cody Bellinger is bad sign for Dodgers
• Giants laughably sign pitcher that Dodgers absolutely own
• Dave Roberts’ quote about Padres in NLDS should motivate Dodgers
• Former Astro seemingly takes uncalled for shot at Cody Bellinger after Cubs deal
• Dodgers’ 2023 lineup without Trea Turner isn’t as impressive as it should be

Although he had one of the most prolific offensive games in Dodger playoff history, Kike will once again be a valuable asset off the bench in 2018.  Kike was one of the main reasons the Dodgers were much better against left-handed starting pitchers in 2017, after struggling against southpaws in 2017.  If the Dodgers are going to be strong once versus southpaws, then Kike will need to have another big season as a lefty masher.

COMP:  Brock Holt  

Holt’s platform year in 2016 was a year removed from an All-Star year where he hit .280 as a regular.  He spent 2016 as a utility player who could handle both the infield and outfield.  That year he hit .255 with 7 HR.  After that season he earned $1.950 million.   I think Kike will come in slightly below that as Holt’s total numbers at his platform year are superior to Kike’s.

PREDICTION:  $1.75 million

Next: How can the Dodgers scrounge up cash to sign Yu Darvish?

Well, there you have it. It’s not an exact science, but it will be interesting to see if these comps hold up.  We should find out by February.    Special thanks to Baseball Reference.com for the statistical and salary data.