The Los Angeles Dodgers are getting a boost to their lineup soon. Left fielder Teoscar Hernandez will be joining the club when they reach Sacramento to play the Athletics, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. The fan-favorite has been on the injured list with a strained hamstring for about a month. Hernandez is currently on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City. Apparently, the veteran has already got his timing back at the plate. He has launched a couple of prodigious home runs in just a few games.
Hernandez Returning
Dave Roberts said the plan is for Teoscar Hernández to be activated off the IL on Monday in Sacramento.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) June 27, 2026
Easing Into the Flow
Los Angeles plans to ease Hernandez into playing time. They play 13 games in 14 days before the All-Star Break. As such, he will start three or four times a week in order to manage his work load. They would prefer not to repeat his injury history. Last year, the veteran was on and off the I.L. battling various ailments. Hernandez was never fully healthy in 2025. It showed both in the field and at the plate. The increase in errors and strike outs was notable. This year, the Dodgers caught the injury early, and they hope that rest and recovery will mitigate the risk of recurrence.
With Hernandez back, it not only lengthens the lineup, but it increases the team’s versatility. Tommy Edman will primarily play second base and occasionally slide to third base which will give Max Muncy a breather against left-handed pitching. In this case, Alex Freeland will play second.
The Butter and Egg Man
Since his arrival in 2024, Hernandez has delivered in the clutch for the Dodgers. Whether regular or postseason, the left fielder has had some big hits for the Dodgers, particularly with runners in scoring position. This year, he was hitting for a .350 batting average in the month of May before the injury bug bit. Los Angeles could certainly benefit from some timely punch at the plate right now.
Proceed with Caution
There is a chance that catcher Will Smith won’t return until after the All-Star Break. He has a neck issue that was originally diagnosed as day-to-day. However, Smith’s response to treatment has been slow.
With an eight-game lead in the National League West, the Dodgers can afford to be patient…for now.
Main Photo: Kirby Lee- Imagn Images
