Originally published by DodgerBlue.com
The Los Angeles Dodgers are hoping to have a better-performing outfield in 2026 after a disappointing showing from the position group last season.
The Dodgers’ outfield left a lot to be desired in terms of offensive production and defensive capabilities, and was the team’s biggest weakness alongside the bullpen.
Teoscar Hernández was a prominent contributor to L.A.’s defensive shortcomings at times and was regularly taken out of the game in favor of a defensive replacement late in games.
Andy Pages was a bright spot on both sides of the ball, especially toward the end of the season as he got more reps in center field. But his presence alone is not enough, which is why the Dodgers brought in Kyle Tucker during free agency.
L.A. is also counting on improvement from Hernández. The hope is that the veteran outfielder will be serviceable rather than a liability, and Roberts feels optimistic after hearing about the work he put in over the offseason.
“He poked his head in on my morning meeting with the pitchers and catchers, and he gave me a hello,” Roberts said. “I saw that he still has a beard. I haven’t seen the body, but I heard he’s in great shape.
“So obviously, I think for me, the defense really, really ticked up from that series in Denver we had in the summer. And for me, that’s the bar. He’s going to move to left field this year, which he’s excited about.
“And I just think he’s shown the ability to be a good defender out there, and he’s obviously a run producer. So I’m excited to see what Teo can do this year. Very, very excited.”
The Dodgers didn’t give Hernández a heads up about moving him to left field before the Tucker signing became official, but the right-hander took the news in stride.
“We made the sign, and then I ended up reaching out to Teo and said, ‘This is what’s going to happen.’ And he gave me a big thumbs up, and he’ll be ready to go,” Roberts said.
“So I think it just speaks to the guys that we have in the room. And if winning is the most important thing, then it doesn’t matter the role, the position, and guys just have bought in.”
Hernández made 120 appearances in left field during his first season with the Dodgers.
Teoscar Hernández trade rumors have cooled off
The Dodgers explored the possibility of trading Hernández to improve their outfield, but a move never materialized.
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes downplayed the possibility, but the rumors persisted and the Kansas City Royals were connected to him.
Now that Spring Training has arrived without any movement on that front, the team reportedly expects to keep Hernández for the 2026 season.
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