Hernández begins rehab assignment, could return during next homestand

NEW YORK -- For the second time this season, Kiké Hernández is closing in on a return to the Dodgers.

The fan-favorite utility player began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday night, beginning with a weekend series in Tacoma, Wash. Hernández is unlikely to return during the Dodgers' three-city road trip visiting the Yankees, Phillies and Mets, but he could be activated from the 10-day injured list during L.A.'s next homestand beginning on July 28.

Hernández sustained a left oblique strain while taking batting practice ahead of his season debut, which didn't take place until May 25 due to an offseason procedure on his left elbow. Hernández played through the new injury for two games, going 4-for-4 with a homer and two doubles before returning to the IL.

Here's everything to know about Hernández's rehab assignment:

How did Hernández perform?
Hernández went 1-for-3 with a double in his second plate appearance that nearly left the yard, hitting the wall in left-center field instead. He flew out in his first plate appearance and hit a sharp lineout (101.9 mph exit velocity) in his last trip to the plate.

Hernández also spent five full innings at third base before he was removed in the sixth inning.

What's next?
Hernández's rehab assignment is unlikely to last the maximum 20 days, but he should play a decent run of games with Oklahoma City given that he hasn't played much this season. He will likely get a day off after his first game and then build up to a more regular workload.

What are they saying?
When Hernández injured his oblique, Roberts described it as a "significant tear" that was expected to sideline him for six to eight weeks. Hernández impressed the coaching staff with how quickly he was able to go through his rehab -- without further aggravating the injury -- and he should be on track to return within that initial timeline.

"He looks normal," Roberts said. "I'm not saying miraculous, but I'm really in disbelief how well he responded, given the injury."

What else?
As things stand, rookie infielder Alex Freeland would likely be the odd man out upon Hernández's return. Freeland was recalled when Hernández went on the IL and would have even more reduced playing time with the veteran utility player back on the roster.