Kiké Hernandez makes first start of year at 3B

LOS ANGELES -- The versatility of Kiké Hernandez extends to another position on Sunday, as he makes his first start of the year at third base for the Dodgers in their series finale against the Cubs at Dodger Stadium.

Hernandez played three games at third base in the major leagues in 2014 with the Marlins, totaling 14... innings. He started once at the position, on Sept. 18, 2014. He also played 16 minor league games at third base in 2014, and nine more minor league games at the hot corner from 2009-2013.

"Kiké's played there before. It's not like he's never played third," manager Don Mattingly said. "He's played there in winter ball and at different times."

Hernandez during spring training started five games at third base and played there for 21 innings.

This is the sixth different position started this season by Hernandez, the first Dodger since Bobby Valentine in 1972 to start games at second base, shortstop, third base, left field, center field and right field in one season.

Hernandez gets the start at third to give Justin Turner a day off after a season-high 13 straight starts and five straight days in the lineup. Hernandez gets the call over Alex Guerrero.

"You throw everything into the pot when you're making a choice. Eventually you need to go with what gives you the best chance to win, and right now it's [Kiké]."

With Hernandez at third base, Joc Pederson is back in center field.