The Los Angeles Dodgers are anticipating the return of a clutch bat soon. Veteran outfielder Teoscar Hernandez is set to join Triple-A Oklahoma City on a rehab assignment tomorrow. If all goes well, Hernandez could rejoin the Dodgers this coming weekend against the Athletics in Sacramento. The left-fielder suffered a mild hamstring injury about a month ago.
Deja Vu All Over Again?
Teoscar Hernandez struggled with injuries most of last season. He was off to a blistering start in 2025 before a groin injury sidelined him in early May. He eventually returned to action in July, but never fully recovered. The groin pull affected his production at the plate. Hernandez’ batting average was down nearly 30 points from the previous year. His defense suffered as well as his range in the outfield was severely limited. The left fielder came into Spring Training this year slimmer and more committed to his defense. He was heating up at the plate with an average well above .300 in the month of May before the injured hamstring.
Taking Necessary Precautions
Thankfully, the injury doesn’t appear to be as severe as it could have been. However, the Dodgers have been patient with their left-fielder’s recovery and haven’t rushed him back. Last week was pivotal in his progress. He went through numerous running drills which was a big test to determine his timeline for return. It is clear they don’t want to repeat Hernandez’ 2025.
Offensive Prowess
The Dodgers have been missing their left fielders’ clutch bat in recent days. They have struggled to get the big hits to put teams away when they have the chance. Hernandez has a knack for coming up with a big hit for Los Angeles since his arrival in 2024. The veteran has been invaluable in both the Dodgers postseason runs in 2024 and 2025. They don’t win the World Series without him.
Another Thing to Watch….
Kyle Tucker exited with low back spasms.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) June 23, 2026
The anticipated return of Hernandez is just became more important as right fielder Kyle Tucker left Monday’s game in the top of the second inning against the Minnesota Twins with lower back spasms. The injured list gives and it takes away. The Dodgers should very familiar with this by now.
Main Photo: Kiyoshi Mio- Imagn Images
