Dave Roberts Announces Reason for Teoscar Hernandez's Removal From Dodgers Lineup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Aug 31, 2025 2:39 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers are entering Sunday clinging to a one-game division lead in the NL West over the San Diego Padres.

The offense has sputtered over the last two games, scoring just one run combined—thanks in large part to Teoscar Hernandez, who’s gone 0-for-7 with three strikeouts in the two losses.

After a strong start to the year in April, the 32-year-old outfielder has struggled since and reached a new low in August, batting .211 with a .670 OPS and 30 strikeouts in 24 games.

Hernandez’s struggles began following an injured list stint in May with a bone bruise, and groin tightness in July may have further contributed to his decline at the plate.

Teoscar Hernandez Update

Ahead of Sunday’s series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks, manager Dave Roberts removed Hernandez from his usual spot in right field. Trade acquisition Alex Call was placed in right field, batting sixth instead.

Roberts addressed the move pregame, saying it was a normal day off for Hernandez and adding, “He’ll be back in there on Tuesday.”

“He’ll be back in there on Tuesday.”

- Dave Roberts says today was a normal day off for Teoscar Hernández
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) August 31, 2025

Although Hernandez appears to be healthy, his play has not matched what the Dodgers anticipated after signing him to a three-year, $66 million contract this offseason.

Hernandez had the best season of his career in a prove-it deal with Los Angeles in 2024, winning his first World Series title and earning both an All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger Award.

Given what he meant to the city and his status as a fan favorite, the front office chose to bring him back. And with his postseason excellence, Hernandez is likely to retain his starting spot entering October with an opportunity to turn it around.

However, getting back to his 2024–early 2025 offensive production will be crucial to the team’s division title hopes.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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