Overview
- Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Hernandez could start a minor-league rehab assignment the weekend of June 19–21 if his recovery continues to progress.
- Hernandez was diagnosed with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain and has said his timeline to return is roughly a month while reporting that the hamstring is improving and he faces a 'big week' of activity.
- While Hernandez has been on the injured list the club has used Alex Call and rookie Ryan Ward in left field, with Ward producing a very strong small-sample performance that complicates playing-time decisions on Hernandez’s return.
- Hernandez is in the second season of a three-year, $66 million deal and has hit .276 with seven home runs and 31 RBIs this year, making his healthy return important for the Dodgers’ offense and outfield defense.
- The team plans a deliberate rehab process that includes rest, strength work and a likely minor-league stint to reduce re-injury risk, a precaution rooted in last season’s rushed comeback from a groin issue and meant to protect the club’s postseason hopes.