Dodgers' Teoscar Hernandez slimmer and ready to return to left field

Hernandez says he dropped 12 pounds this offseason after lower-body injuries affected him offensively and defensively last season.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Teoscar Hernandez, a 33-year-old outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has lost 12 pounds this offseason in an effort to regain his previous form and athleticism. Hernandez struggled with lower-body injuries last season, including a strained groin muscle, which affected his performance both at the plate and in the field. The Dodgers have since signed free agent Kyle Tucker, who will play right field, moving Hernandez back to his preferred position in left field.

Why it matters

Hernandez's weight loss and return to left field are important for the Dodgers as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. Hernandez's offensive and defensive production will be crucial for the team's success, especially with the addition of Tucker to the outfield mix.

The details

Hernandez acknowledged that the lower-body injuries he dealt with last season, including a groin strain and a bruised foot, affected his mobility and performance. He hit .313 with a .933 OPS and 34 RBIs in his first 33 games before the groin injury, but hit just .223 with a .672 OPS the rest of the regular season. Hernandez says he is now back to his normal playing weight of 204-205 pounds, which he believes will allow him to move better and perform at a higher level.

  • In early May 2025, Hernandez suffered a strained groin muscle that landed him on the injured list.
  • In July 2025, Hernandez played through a bruised foot.

The players

Teoscar Hernandez

A 33-year-old outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers who has dropped 12 pounds this offseason in an effort to regain his previous form and athleticism.

Kyle Tucker

A free agent the Dodgers signed to play right field, moving Hernandez back to left field.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Andrew Friedman

The president of baseball operations for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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What they’re saying

“Now that everything is over – I didn't get back in my health when I got back from my injury. I was fighting through it. Obviously, I didn't say anything. I just wanted to be on the field and trying to help the team.”

— Teoscar Hernandez (dailynews.com)

“Teoscar looks great. I saw some interviews over the winter where he said his goal was to win a Gold Glove. I love that.”

— Andrew Friedman, President of Baseball Operations, Los Angeles Dodgers (dailynews.com)

What’s next

Hernandez will look to prove his improved fitness and mobility in the Dodgers' Cactus League games this spring as he prepares to take over left field for the team.

The takeaway

Hernandez's offseason weight loss and renewed focus on his fitness could be a key factor in the Dodgers' success this season, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign. His ability to stay healthy and productive in left field will be crucial for the team's playoff aspirations.