Dodgers' Teoscar Hernández Turns Down Home Run Derby to Focus on Postseason Push
Dodgers' Teoscar Hernández Turns Down Home Run Derby to Focus on Postseason Push originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
In 2024, the Los Angeles Dodgers won the World Series. But that wasn't the only hardware that Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez brought home that year. At the 2024 All-Star game festivities, Hernández won the Home Run Derby.
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Now, a year later, with a chance to defend his crown, Hernández turned the chance down. He won't partake in the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby. Hernández revealed his reason for declining to partake in the derby to David Vassegh of Dodger Talk.
Vassegh shared on Twitter/X that Hernández decided not to partake in the Home Run Derby in 2025 due to his desire not to risk injury, and be ready for the second half of the season and a postseason push.
Part of why Hernández is making such a decision is his prior stint on the injured list for a groin strain in May. To avoid aggravating it or risking another injury, Hernández is planning to sit out the Home Run Derby.
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There will be a new set of players in the Derby this year, as Hernández has officially backed out. But, that isn't to say he won't continue raking for the Dodgers in 2025.
Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Teoscar Hernandez (37) reacts in the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium.Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
In his 66 games played for the Dodgers, Hernández has 69 hits, 40 runs scored, 17 doubles, 14 home runs, 53 RBIs, five stolen bases, 12 walks, and 65 strikeouts. Hernández is batting .270 with a .500 slugging percentage and an .803 OPS on the season.
Compared to 2024, Hernández hasn't been getting on base as much, but he's still slugging the ball at a near identical clip, .501 in 2024. He's been one of the best sluggers in the game, and still has impressive numbers despite missing some time.
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While the Dodgers won't have Hernández back in the Derby, Shohei Ohtani or Andy Pages could make an appearance. Hernández is officially sitting out of the Home Run Derby, but his 2024 performance will always remain a part of MLB history.
Related: Bold Trade Idea Sends Emmanuel Clase to Dodgers
Related: Dodgers' Dave Roberts Gives Update on Shohei Ohtani's Home Run Derby Plans
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 28, 2025, where it first appeared.
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