Dodgers Make Teoscar Hernandez Announcement After Removal From Lineup

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Dodgers Make Teoscar Hernandez Announcement After Removal From Lineup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Sep 13, 2026 12:58 PM ET

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez has come alive in the month of September. The 33-year-old veteran right-handed slugger has posted a .410 batting average, .500 on-base percentage and 1.115 OPS with a home run and 12 RBIs this month.

Although the Dodgers just had their eight-game winning streak snapped by the Miami Marlins on Saturday, Hernandez has been a driving force behind their run production alongside Mookie Betts, who has also come alive at the plate.

Before this month it was becoming clear that Hernandez’s role might be in jeopardy given how poor his plate appearances had looked. In just two weeks he has completely changed the narrative.

Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Teoscar Hernandez (37)Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

Ahead of Sunday’s game against the Miami Marlins, Hernandez was suddenly removed from the starting nine. He had cooled off over the last two days without recording a hit against Miami.

Instead, Dodgers rookie Josue De Paula took over in left field, which was not expected considering the original plan was to have De Paula serve as the designated hitter for all three games of the series.

Manager Dave Roberts explained the reasoning behind the change during pregame. “Dave Roberts said JDP starting in LF instead of Teoscar Hernandez is not wanting Hernandez to play three straight games on turf,” Roberts said.

Dave Roberts said JDP starting in LF instead of Teoscar Hernandez is not wanting Hernandez to play 3 straight games on turf. #Dodgers
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) September 13, 2026

The playing conditions at LoanDepot Park can be tougher on a player’s lower half than natural grass, and with De Paula being just 21 years old he can handle it for a day to keep Hernandez fresh. Hernandez should still be available off the bench if Los Angeles needs him as a pinch hitter.

If not, his next chance to return to the starting lineup will come Monday for a series opener against the struggling Cincinnati Reds.