Bad News for the Dodgers: Teoscar Hernández to IL with Hamstring Injury
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been dealt a blow to their roster and morale with the recent announcement that outfielder Teoscar Hernández will be placed on the 10-day injured list. The injury, described as a left hamstring strain, occurred during a game against the Miami Marlins. Hernández pulled up while rounding second base after hitting an RBI double and was immediately removed from the game. Following an MRI, the diagnosis was confirmed, and manager Dave Roberts has already made it clear that the team will have to prepare for a period without one of its hottest hitters.
Hernández, who has earned the nickname “The Gunner” for his power at the plate and cannon-like arm in the outfield, has been one of the Dodgers’ most consistent contributors this season. In the first six weeks of 2025, he has posted impressive numbers — a .315 batting average, 9 home runs, and 34 RBIs — putting him among the league leaders in multiple categories.
For a team with championship aspirations, losing a player of his caliber, even temporarily, is more than a minor inconvenience — it’s a wake-up call.
The injury occurred in the fourth inning of a May 6th matchup against the Marlins. After driving a pitch deep into the left-center gap, Hernández raced around first base and headed for second. Just before reaching the bag, he pulled up sharply, grabbing the back of his left thigh. The stadium went quiet as trainers rushed onto the field. He walked off under his own power but was clearly in discomfort.
Postgame, Dave Roberts said the team would be “cautiously optimistic” but wouldn’t take chances. “Teo’s not the kind of guy who comes out of games unless it’s serious,” Roberts said. “That’s when we knew this wasn’t just tightness or fatigue.”
The following morning, an MRI confirmed a hamstring strain. Though the team hasn’t specified the grade of the strain, sources suggest it’s mild to moderate — enough to sideline him for at least 10 days, but not necessarily something that will keep him out long-term.
While the Dodgers boast one of the deepest rosters in baseball, Hernández’s presence in the lineup cannot be overstated. Since arriving in L.A., he has provided a much-needed spark in the middle of the order, often batting cleanup or fifth. He’s been particularly effective in high-leverage situations, batting over .400 with runners in scoring position so far this season.
He also brings balance to a lineup that leans heavily on left-handed hitters like Freddie Freeman, Shohei Ohtani, and Max Muncy. Hernández’s right-handed bat helps prevent opposing managers from matching up with dominant lefty relievers in late-game situations.
In addition to his offensive firepower, Hernández has played solid defense in right field, showcasing both range and a strong arm. He’s among the top outfielders in assists this season and has saved several runs with his glove.
