The Los Angeles Dodgers took a 1-0 lead in the 2025 NL Wild Card Series with a 10-5 victory over the Cincinnati Reds, but the spotlight quickly shifted postgame to the health of two key utility men: Kiké Hernández and Tommy Edman. Both players exited early in Game 1, sparking questions about whether injuries might disrupt L.A.’s October plans.
Hernández Leaves With Back Tightness
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Hernández, starting in left field, was pulled in the seventh inning after experiencing back tightness. With the Dodgers comfortably ahead, Miguel Rojas and later Alex Call filled in defensively. Dave Roberts emphasized the move was precautionary, telling reporters bluntly:
“He’s playing tomorrow.”
The Dodgers manager added that the decision was about protecting Hernández for the remainder of the postseason:
“He has some back tightness, so just, kind of, trying to take care of him in this particular game, getting him ready for tomorrow and beyond. But he’ll be in there tomorrow.”
Before exiting, Hernández had gone 2-for-3 at the plate, continuing the strong form that earned him a playoff roster spot despite the team leaving Michael Conforto off. President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman pointed to Hernández’s October track record as a key factor.
“I think we’ve all seen the level of focus and energy that Kiké brings, especially in October,” Friedman said. “His ability to slow things down, take what the pitcher gives, and add really good defense on top of it is something we felt really comfortable betting on.”
Edman’s Ankle Managed Carefully
As for Edman, Roberts confirmed his fifth-inning removal was strictly preventative as the team continues to manage an ankle issue. Edman had already homered earlier in the game and showed no visible discomfort. “We just wanted to get him off his feet,” Roberts explained.
Dodgers Keep Depth Intact
The Dodgers’ strategy to protect both players was possible thanks to an explosive offensive performance. Shohei Ohtani and Teoscar Hernández each went deep twice, while Edman added his own solo blast. Left-hander Blake Snell gave Los Angeles seven solid innings, ensuring the Game 1 win never felt in jeopardy.
With Hernández and Edman expected back in the lineup, the Dodgers enter Game 2 against Cincinnati with their depth intact and an opportunity to close out the series at Dodger Stadium.