Slimmed-Down Teoscar Hernández Ready to Shine for Dodgers

Teoscar Hernández spent his offseason in the Dominican Republic, shedding 10 pounds to return to his usual 204-pound playing weight. He acknowledged that he was not himself in 2025, feeling heavier and hampered by a lingering groin injury. This critical year, Hernández aims to prove to the Los Angeles Dodgers and the league that his performance was an anomaly.

Despite a down year in 2025, Hernández was still a valuable offensive producer for the Dodgers during their postseason run, hitting five home runs. Other teams showed interest in acquiring him this winter, but no trade materialized. Hernández is now eager to demonstrate his capabilities after the Dodgers listened to trade inquiries.

Manager Dave Roberts expressed excitement for Hernández's potential this year. The team informed Hernández of a positional change from right field back to left field, a move he accepted as part of the team's focus on winning. Hernández's defensive metrics in right field were among the lowest for his position.

Hernández's 2025 struggles were compounded by a groin injury sustained in May, which he suspects stemmed from an extended 2024 season and a short offseason. He is now focused on his health and weight, aiming to regain his former effectiveness. The Dodgers believe Hernández can still perform at a high level.