Dodgers Mull Outfield Overhaul as Hernandez's Defense Falters in Crucial Late-Season Stretch

As the Los Angeles Dodgers head into the latter part of August 2025, the team is facing a dilemma in their outfield, particularly with the performance of right fielder Teoscar Hernandez.

On Monday, August 18th, the Dodgers suffered a 4-3 walk-off loss against the struggling Colorado Rockies, a game that was largely set up by Hernandez's crucial errors in the outfield. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged that Hernandez needs to "get better out there," stating that it's not a lack of effort, but the team needs to improve.

Following the loss, Mookie Betts, the Dodgers' star player, met with manager Dave Roberts and president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman in Roberts' office. While the details of the meeting are unclear, the very fact that it took place suggests that changes may be on the horizon for the Dodgers' outfield.

One potential solution being considered is moving Betts back to his primary position in right field, where he has over 5,000 innings of experience and is a six-time Gold Glove winner. This would allow the Dodgers to rotate Alex Freeland and Miguel Rojas at shortstop, with Hernandez slipping back to left field to replace the struggling Michael Conforto.

With the Dodgers facing a crucial stretch of games, including a weekend series against the San Diego Padres, the team may need to adjust their season plan and focus on the basics to get back on track.