The Los Angeles Dodgers made a surprising lineup change Sunday, sitting veteran outfielder Teoscar Hernández amid a prolonged slump at the plate and in the field. According to The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya, manager Dave Roberts explained the decision:
“Clearly he hasn’t handled right-handed pitching (.689 OPS). I think that a two-day reset could help. He’s an everyday guy, but I do think that where we’re at, you’ve got to perform too.”
This clarification contradicts earlier reports that Hernández was simply receiving a scheduled day off. The Dodgers are entering Sunday clinging to a narrow one-game lead in the NL West over the San Diego Padres, and the offense has sputtered over the past two games, scoring just a single run combined. Hernández has gone 0-for-7 with three strikeouts in those losses.
Hernández’s Struggles Mount
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After a strong start to the season in April, Hernández, 32, has battled through a difficult stretch. In August, he’s batting just .211 with a .670 OPS and has struck out 30 times over 24 games. His decline began following a May stint on the injured list with a bone bruise, while groin tightness in July may have further impacted his performance.
Ahead of Sunday’s series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Roberts replaced Hernández in right field with recent trade acquisition Alex Call, who also moved into the sixth spot in the batting order. Roberts initially described the change as a routine day off, adding, “He’ll be back in there on Tuesday.”
High Expectations and Big Contract
Despite recent struggles, Hernández remains a key figure for the Dodgers. He signed a three-year, $66 million deal this offseason following a standout 2024 campaign in which he won his first World Series title, earned an All-Star selection, and claimed a Silver Slugger Award. His postseason performance played a major role in Los Angeles’ decision to bring him back, cementing his status as both a fan favorite and a central piece of the lineup.
With the division race tight, Hernández’s ability to return to his early-2025 form will be critical. While the Dodgers appear confident he will regain his production, the team’s hopes for an NL West crown may hinge on his performance in the coming weeks.