The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a hard-fought victory on Wednesday, edging out the Washington Nationals with a final score of 6-5 in a game that remained tight until its dramatic conclusion. The win ultimately hinged on a remarkable game-saving play in the bottom of the ninth inning by utility player Enrique Hernández.
With the Nationals threatening, holding runners on first and second base with only one out, Washington hit a ground ball through the gap between first and second base that appeared destined to drive in a crucial tying run.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Enrique Hernandez Saves Team In Nationals Finale
However, Hernandez intervened with a spectacular diving stop, snaring the ball and quickly firing it to second base to record a pivotal second out. The Dodgers then managed to secure the third out, sealing the narrow victory.
Immediately following Hernandez’s heroic play, Dodgers fans took to social media to express their elation and admiration for the 33-year-old veteran. Numerous fans shared celebratory GIFs and heartfelt messages praising his clutch defensive effort.
One fan exclaimed that Hernandez “saved the whole team’s a** with that play,” while another simply stated, “SAVED THE GAME.” The overwhelming sentiment was one of gratitude and appreciation, with one fan emphatically declaring, “No Kiké slander allowed.”
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s YouTube Channel
Hernandez has been filling in at first base for the Dodgers while All-Star Freddie Freeman recovers from an injury sustained after a fall. While Freeman is potentially set to return to the lineup on April 11th, providing a significant boost to the offense, Kiké Hernandez has been delivering solid play for Los Angeles, particularly on the defensive end.
Although his offensive statistics, entering Wednesday’s game with a .111 batting average, a .154 OBP, four home runs, and seven RBIs, could see improvement, his versatility and timely defensive contributions have been invaluable while filling in.
As the Dodgers prepare for a three-game home series against the Chicago Cubs starting on April 11th, manager Dave Roberts will face decisions regarding Hernandez’s role upon Freeman’s return.