What's happened
Hernández, who has been limited by a fall-season surgery and a slow start to 2026, is expected to be available for the Dodgers’ home series against the Rockies. Manager Dave Roberts has highlighted Hernández’s energy and edge as a boost for the team, while Max Muncy’s wrist issue is reportedly not a major injury.
What's behind the headline?
Analysis
- The Dodgers are banking on Hernández’s late-season and postseason prowess to rebound this year, highlighting his October performance with World Series wins in 2020, 2024, and 2025.
- The return coincides with another check on the health of Max Muncy, who was hit by a pitch and left with a wrist concern that X-rays have ruled out as a major injury.
- Coach and front-office decisions in late season could reflect the team’s broader strategy of prioritizing depth and versatility as the roster navigates injuries and ongoing strong competition in the NL West.
- The combination of a potential Hernandez return and Muncy’s status may influence lineup decisions and bullpen deployment as the Dodgers push for consistency ahead of the postseason.
How we got here
Hernández has signed a one-year, $4.5 million deal with the Dodgers after surgery last fall delayed his 2026 start. He has posted modest numbers in rehab and with Oklahoma City, and his return comes as the Dodgers navigate injuries, including Muncy’s wrist setback.
Our analysis
Associated Press reports Hernandez is nearing readiness for the home stand against Colorado, with late-season and postseason pedigree noted. NY Post coverage highlights Wrobleski's rough outing and the Brewers’ early offense, while also detailing Ohtani's two-way workload management and recent hitting slump improvements.
Go deeper
- Will Hernández actually be in the lineup for the first game back?
- How will Muncy’s wrist affect Dodgers’ early-season rotation and lineup decisions?
- Will Ohtani's workload management disrupt his offensive rhythm going forward?
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The Los Angeles Dodgers are an American professional baseball team based in Los Angeles, California. The Dodgers compete in Major League Baseball as a member club of the National League West division.