Kike Hernandez reveals 2 pre-game mental routines that help him stay focused ahead of World Series vs Yankees
Kike Hernandez and the Los Angeles Dodgers sit only four victories away from winning their second World Series title in the last five seasons. In what might be the most anticipated title matchup in recent years, the star-studded Los Angeles Dodgers will need to make their way past an equally impressive New York Yankees squad in order to achieve that goal.
While many other stars on the Los Angeles Dodgers such as Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts have received much of the attention heading into the World Series, Kike Hernandez has been a key depth piece for the club. The veteran utility man has been an invaluable weapon for the club throughout the playoffs, posting a .303 batting average with two clutch home runs for the team.
Hernandez has become a fan favorite in Los Angeles thanks to his infectious personality and grinder gameplay style on the field. That being said, the veteran provided some insight into that mentality and how he prepares himself to perform under the immense pressure of the postseason.
"I work with a mental performance coach, Brian Cain, and there's two things that I apply to my pregame routine, which is his mind movie. He creates like a highlight reel with some keywords for me and some affirmations," Hernandez said about one of his first steps in preparing for the games.
It's interesting to see how a proven winner such as Kike Hernandez prepares for the World Series even though he has already won the title with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Now the 33-year-old has another opportunity to bring a second World Series title back to Los Angeles.
"After that I do like a mental imagery, which is a guided meditation to get myself mentally where I need to be to go out in front of 55,000 people and play the biggest games of my career," the veteran continued.
Kike Hernandez has been an invaluable player for Dave Roberts and the Dodgers
As previously mentioned, Hernandez has been a clutch performer at the plate for the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, his contributions on defense might be even more valuable for manager Dave Roberts.
Throughout the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets, Kike Hernandez showcased the true definition of a utility man. Over his last four playoff games, he has played third base twice, while appearing at both second base and center field. That level of defensive flexibility coupled with his performances at the plate helps make him a potential x-factor in the World Series.