Kiké Hernandez was mic’d up during Red Sox-Yankees Sunday night. It was the best feature introduced during a baseball telecast since the K-Zone.
Of course, the concept of interviewing baseball players during games isn’t new. Fox seemingly does it every year during the All-Star Game. But those conversations between Joe Buck and unsuspecting All-Stars are awkward and forced. Hernandez seemed to actually enjoy the banter.
The segment was exactly what baseball needs.
Traditionally, players are relatively mute during these continuous on-field interviews, mumbling a few words back to the broadcasters in between pitches. Thankfully, Hernandez took a different approach. The most memorable moment came with Anthony Rizzo up the plate and runners on second and third. Hernandez told the audience he was going to try and throw out Jose Trevino, whom he entertainingly called a “slow guy,” if Rizzo hit the ball to center.
Sure enough, that’s exactly what happened, though Hernandez’s throw was cut off at the mound.
Rizzo’s shot was the third straight ball hit towards Hernandez, who kept his spirits up throughout the half-inning.
One of the things that commonly escapes baseball players during segments like these is the importance of flashing some personality. Yes, they are in the middle of a game, but there is plenty of downtime. NFL and NBA players recognize the performative aspect of sports.
Hernandez seemingly does as well. During one lighthearted exchange, he joked that he goes the other way “by accident.”
When asked about the difference between Red Sox-Yankees and Giants-Dodgers, Hernandez, without skipping a beat, deadpanned that Red Sox-Yankees is “colder.”
Kiké: “I go the other way by accident.”🤔 pic.twitter.com/fCqlLcLl2W
— Fred Landers (@fredlanders101) April 11, 2022
Joking around with announcers during a game isn’t akin to selling out or disrespecting the sport. It’s a great way for players to market the product, and thus, themselves. Audiences love to peer behind the curtain, even for fleeting and curated moments.
It was pretty funny to hear Hernandez bet his teammates he wouldn’t stay hitless all season.
Coming off an excellent postseason — Kiké hit .411 with five home runs during 11 playoff games last season — Hernandez is poised to capture Red Sox fans this summer. Sunday’s routine was a great way to start.
If only he actually did call his shot. There's always next time.
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