Dodgers' Teoscar Hernández Reveals Reason For Home Run Derby Decision

Vassegh shared on Twitter/X that Hernández decided not to partake in the Home Run Derby in 2025 due to his desire not to risk injury, and be ready for the second half of the season and a postseason push.

Part of why Hernández is making such a decision is his prior stint on the injured list for a groin strain in May. To avoid aggravating it or risking another injury, Hernández is planning to sit out the Home Run Derby.

There will be a new set of players in the Derby this year, as Hernández has officially backed out. But, that isn't to say he won't continue raking for the Dodgers in 2025.

In his 66 games played for the Dodgers, Hernández has 69 hits, 40 runs scored, 17 doubles, 14 home runs, 53 RBIs, five stolen bases, 12 walks, and 65 strikeouts. Hernández is batting .270 with a .500 slugging percentage and an .803 OPS on the season.

Compared to 2024, Hernández hasn't been getting on base as much, but he's still slugging the ball at a near identical clip, .501 in 2024. He's been one of the best sluggers in the game, and still has impressive numbers despite missing some time.

While the Dodgers won't have Hernández back in the Derby, Shohei Ohtani or Andy Pages could make an appearance. Hernández is officially sitting out of the Home Run Derby, but his 2024 performance will always remain a part of MLB history.