LOS ANGELES — The Home Run Derby will see a new champion crowned this year as last year’s winner, Teoscar Hernandez, has decided not to participate in the upcoming event scheduled for July 14 in Atlanta. The Dodgers outfielder cited health concerns as the primary reason for his decision.
“No, I’m not going to do it,” Hernandez stated, referencing the intense physical demands of the competition. “Last year after I did it, all of this area [his upper legs] was tight and sore. This year, I had the injury over there. I don’t want to risk it. So just don’t do it. Be ready for the season, be part of the team and not get hurt doing the derby.”
Injury Concerns and Recovery
Hernandez missed two weeks in May due to a strained adductor muscle in his left leg. The Home Run Derby, known for its rigorous format requiring competitors to take maximum-effort swings repeatedly, poses a significant risk of injury, particularly for players not at full strength.
“It is,” Hernandez said of the derby’s physical toll. “I wasn’t tired at the end or the next day. But I was really sore. I think if your body is not ready, 100 percent, it can cost you an injury. So I don’t want to risk it. I’d rather be healthy and be playing the regular season.”
Hernandez’s decision underscores the often-overlooked physical demands of the derby, which can impact players’ performance long after the event. His teammate, Shohei Ohtani, also opted out, despite leading the National League with 29 home runs, due to his ongoing recovery from Tommy John surgery.
Performance and Current Season Challenges
Before his injury, Hernandez was off to a stellar start, batting .315 with a .933 OPS and leading the league with 34 RBIs. However, since returning from the injured list, his performance has dipped, with a .206 average and a .626 OPS over 36 games.
“It’s more about timing,” Hernandez explained. “My body feels 100 percent from the injury or any other part of my body. It’s just hard to make adjustments during the season, injuries or not. Just credit to the pitchers.”
Hernandez remains optimistic about his recovery and future contributions to the team, emphasizing his commitment to returning to form.
Team Dynamics and Upcoming Games
Meanwhile, the Dodgers are navigating other team dynamics. Shohei Ohtani is set to make his next pitching start on his 31st birthday, paired with left-hander Justin Wrobleski. The team’s rotation sees right-hander Ben Casparius taking the mound on Friday, with Sunday’s starter against the Houston Astros still to be determined.
Shortstop Mookie Betts was given a day off to address mental fatigue amid a slump, while right-hander Michael Kopech returned to the injured list with knee inflammation. Will Klein was recalled to fill Kopech’s roster spot.
Prospects and Future Stars
The Dodgers’ future looks promising with prospects like Josue DePaula and Zyhir Hope selected for the All-Star Futures Game. Both players have shown exceptional performance in Class-A Great Lakes, earning them spots on the National League team for the July 12 event at Truist Park in Atlanta.
DePaula is batting .269 with a team-leading 10 home runs, while Hope boasts a .297 average with an .864 OPS, seven home runs, 46 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases.
These young talents are ranked among Baseball America’s Top 100 prospects, signaling a bright future for the Dodgers.
Looking Ahead
As the Dodgers continue their season, they face the White Sox next, with Clayton Kershaw set to pitch. The team remains focused on maintaining their competitive edge while managing player health and performance.
Hernandez’s decision to skip the Home Run Derby reflects a broader trend among players prioritizing long-term health over short-term accolades. As the season progresses, the Dodgers will aim to balance these considerations while striving for success on the field.