Dodgers: 3 internal options that could fill Kiké Hernandez’s role

1. Zach McKinstry

Speaking of impressive 2019 campaigns, Zach McKinstry put one together and had his momentum capped by the year we hate to talk about. Though he did make his MLB debut in 2020 after the Dodgers put him on their taxi squad, he only received seven at-bats in four games because … where would there be playing time for him in a shortened 60-game season?

But 2021 is a new chapter for the 25-year-old. McKinstry is ready to make his mark, telling reporters at spring training that he would love to fill the role left behind by Hernandez, and fans should love his outlook.

He’s a lefty bat, which is always helpful, but he’s a true utility player based on his exposure in the minor leagues. Unlike Taylor, who came up as a middle infielder, and Neuse, who spent most of his time at third base, McKinstry has almost been equally spread across second, short and third in addition to getting outfield reps in recent years.

Not bad for a 33rd-round pick, who made his pro debut in 2016 before making his way to the Dodgers roster in 2020. He’s largely improved over the years too, seemingly getting better at each level save for a few minor hiccups along the way.

He just discovered his power stroke in 2019, too, slugging 19 bombs and 78 RBI across 121 games in Double-A and Triple-A. Look for him to turn some heads at spring training assuming the 2020 lull hasn’t affected his momentum and progression.

Dodgers: 3 trade deadline targets that would make LAD truly unstoppable

The Los Angeles Dodgers are heavily favored to win the World Series, but hear us out: what if they just got even better at the trade deadline?