Dodgers Dave Roberts explains move to keep Teoscar Hernandez out of lineup against Angels

Dodgers Dave Roberts explains move to keep Teoscar Hernandez out of lineup against Angels originally appeared on The Sporting News

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Angels begin round two of the Freeway Series at Angel Stadium on Monday. Still, before both teams step on the field, one outfielder will be missing out on the action for the series opener. 

Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez will not start in his usual spot in right field; instead, newly acquired Alex Call will man his position and bat ninth. 

"He's been a hard one for me to pin down as far as what I see," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said in regards to Hernandez's recent struggles at the plate. "Specifically versus right-handing pitching, I just don't see as many competitive at-bats."

Hernandez, 32, has had a subpar 2025 season to his standards, posting a slashline of .254/.289/.464 so far in his 10th major league season. Roberts pointed out that the lack of production from Hernandez compared to previous seasons could be traced back to the adjustment he's been experiencing from injuries that sidelined him in May. 

Monday will be the only expected day off for the right fielder as Roberts also confirmed that Hernandez will play in the next five of six upcoming Dodgers games, including a crucial series against the San Diego Padres.

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