Dodgers’ Dave Roberts Makes Decision After Disappointing Roster Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Segun Ajayi | Last updated May 27, 2026 1:31 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers will once again turn to Alex Freeland after Kiké Hernández suffered another injury setback during Tuesday night’s 15-6 win over the Colorado Rockies, according to Athletic MLB reporter Fabian Ardaya. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed Hernández left the game with a left oblique strain after appearing in only his second game of the 2026 season.

The Dodgers quickly moved to fill the roster spot by recalling Freeland from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Hernández exited in the fourth inning shortly after hitting a double.

He showed visible discomfort while running the bases and headed back to the dugout, where Roberts and the training staff immediately checked on him. Roberts admitted the situation was frustrating because Hernández spent months working his way back from injury.

The 34-year-old started the season on the 60-day injured list while recovering from offseason surgery on his left elbow. Before returning Monday, Hernández also dealt with side discomfort during batting practice.

Dave Roberts said Alex Freeland will replace Kiké Hernández, who will go on the IL. https://t.co/JXXSxIrcdD
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) May 27, 2026

Hernández said the injury felt especially difficult because his return forced another player off the roster, only for him to contribute just four at-bats before getting hurt again. He added that he hopes testing will reveal less serious damage than initially expected.T

The Dodgers expect Hernández to miss at least several weeks while doctors evaluate the severity of the oblique strain. Freeland now gets another opportunity after the Dodgers optioned him to Triple-A on May 11 to clear roster space for Mookie Betts’ return.

The 24-year-old responded well in Oklahoma City and quickly forced his way back into the conversation. Since returning to Triple-A, Freeland has hit .265 with a .345 on-base percentage and a .592 slugging percentage across 49 at-bats.He also recorded four home runs, two triples, and 16 RBIs during that stretch.

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

He made Los Angeles’ Opening Day roster after a strong spring and appeared in 18 games before the Dodgers sent him down. During his first major league stint, Freeland batted .231 with one home run and five RBIs while showing defensive flexibility across the infield.

The Dodgers still managed a dominant win Tuesday despite losing Hernández during the game.Shohei Ohtani also exited after a pitch struck his right hand, though Roberts later confirmed the superstar felt well enough to make his scheduled start on the mound Wednesday.

Ohtani continued his strong season before leaving the game. He entered Tuesday batting .309 with 17 home runs, 41 RBIs, and a 1.011 OPS through 51 games this season. The Dodgers improved to 34-20 with the victory and remained in first place in the National League West.

Los Angeles has relied heavily on its roster depth throughout the season as injuries continue to affect several key players.

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

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