The Los Angeles Dodgers received encouraging news regarding Teoscar Hernández’s recovery during their series against the Tampa Bay Rays, potentially bringing one of their key offensive contributors closer to returning.

Hernández has been on the Injured List since May 29 because of a left hamstring strain.

Speaking with reporters, including Jack Harris of the California Post, manager Dave Roberts said the veteran outfielder could begin a rehab assignment this weekend.

Hernández also provided an update on his progress. Speaking with AM 570 LA Sports in comments relayed by radio host David Vassegh, Hernández explained that his hamstring continues improving and described the upcoming stretch as an important week of baseball activities.

According to DodgersBeat, Hernández will take live at-bats today with a rehab assignment getting close.

The Dodgers have managed multiple position-player injuries throughout the season.

Catcher Will Smith is sidelined by a neck injury. Shortstop Mookie Betts recently returned after an extended absence, and Los Angeles welcomed utility player Tommy Edman back into the lineup on Wednesday.

That context makes Hernández’s recovery even more important.

The outfielder is currently in the second season of the three-year, $66 million contract he signed before the 2025 season.

He is earning just under $20 million this year before that figure increases to $22 million next season.

Los Angeles also holds a $15 million team option for the 2028 season. When healthy, Hernández has remained productive.

Across 181 at-bats this year, he owns a 119 wRC+ while adding seven home runs and two stolen bases. He has produced a .276/.348/.436 slash line in 51 games.

That batting average would represent his strongest full-season mark since 2021, when he hit .296 with the Toronto Blue Jays.

During his absence, the Dodgers turned to Alex Call and Ryan Ward to fill opportunities in the outfield.

Call has primarily started against left-handed pitching, while Ward has received most of the work in left field versus right-handers.

Ward has taken advantage of the opportunity.

The rookie has three home runs, 11 RBIs, and an .862 OPS in 43 at-bats over 15 games, while Call owns a .688 OPS in 89 at-bats across 43 games.

Ward’s emergence creates another layer to watch once Hernández returns.

After spending years in the minor leagues and posting several productive Triple-A seasons, Ward may continue earning opportunities against right-handed pitching if he remains on the roster.

As for Hernández, his value extends beyond production.

One of his defining qualities is consistency of presence.

He brings visible energy and confidence without becoming emotionally dependent on short-term results.

Another strength is adaptability.

Hernández has repeatedly shown the ability to fit different lineup structures and maintain offensive impact in changing roles.

He also competes with controlled aggression and consistently looks prepared for key moments.

That balance of experience, power, and confidence helps explain why the Dodgers remain eager to get him back into the lineup.

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