Dodgers' Teoscar Hernandez Reveals Injury Return Timeline
Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández has revealed he expects to return in about one month after suffering a left hamstring strain, though he believes he could come back sooner if his recovery continues to progress well.
Hernández shared the update Saturday before the Dodgers faced the Philadelphia Phillies. The 33-year-old was placed on the 10-day injured list after suffering the injury during Wednesday night's 4-1 victory over the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium. An MRI later revealed a Grade 1 hamstring strain, which was the best outcome the Dodgers could have hoped for.
According to Southern California News Group reporter Jack Harris, Hernández said his current timeline is roughly one month, but he remains optimistic because the injury turned out to be less severe than initially feared. At the same time, he made it clear that he does not plan to rush the recovery process.
Teoscar Hernández said his timeline to return is roughly a month
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) May 30, 2026
Since he only had a Grade 1 hamstring strain, he added that it could be sooner - but that he's also not gonna rush his recovery, to make sure it doesn't become a lingering problem this year
Hernández wants to avoid a situation where the injury lingers or becomes a recurring problem later in the season. Manager Dave Roberts shared that view and said the team plans to take a cautious approach with his recovery and will focus on making sure he fully rebuilds his strength before returning to the lineup.
Roberts noted that the club learned from last season when Hernández dealt with a groin injury that sidelined him briefly but continued to bother him throughout the year. Before suffering the hamstring strain, Hernández was among the Dodgers' most productive hitters.
Through 51 games, he batted .283 with seven home runs, 31 RBIs, 12 doubles and a .785 OPS. Over his final 15 games before the injury, Hernández hit .346 with three home runs and 14 RBIs while helping anchor the middle of Los Angeles' lineup.
Los Angeles has recalled Ryan Ward from Triple-A Oklahoma City as the corresponding move after placing Hernández on the IL, and he will get starts against right-handed pitching. The Dodgers also plan to use a platoon in left field.
Alex Call will handle much of the workload against left-handed pitching and select right-handed starters. Ward earned the promotion after putting together a strong season in Triple-A.
The 27-year-old entered the weekend batting .311 with 16 home runs and 45 RBIs for Oklahoma City. The Dodgers also have James Tibbs III playing well at Triple-A Oklahoma City. The club's No. 10 prospect entered Friday batting .310 with 14 home runs and 44 RBIs.
Because Tibbs is not on the 40-man roster and Hernández is not expected to face a lengthy absence, Los Angeles chose not to make that move.Despite losing Hernández, the Dodgers remain in a strong position atop the National League West.
The club continues to receive major contributions from Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman while waiting for Hernández to return.
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This story was originally published May 31, 2026 at 4:30 AM.