Los Angeles Dodgers slugger Teoscar Hernandez is considering defending his title in this summer's Home Run Derby. He stated Sunday at Truist Park that his participation depends on achieving his primary goal of making the All-Star team again.
Teoscar Hernandez said he wants a strong first half to put him in position for an All-Star selection, which he believes would provide a good chance to participate in the Home Run Derby.
Hernandez has started the season batting over .300 with numerous runs batted in, performance supporting his All-Star aspirations. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted Hernandez's focus on driving in runs.
Last year, Hernandez won the Home Run Derby, defeating Bobby Witt Jr. in the final round. Advice from former teammate Vladimir Guerrero Jr. influenced his approach in the competition.
Beyond his individual performance and derby considerations, Teoscar Hernandez has taken on a mentoring role with younger Latin American players on the Dodgers roster. He has developed a close relationship with outfielder Andy Pages.
Co-hitting coach Aaron Bates described their bond as a "big brother, little brother" dynamic. Hernandez offers guidance to Pages, reinforcing messages from the coaching staff and sharing lessons from his own career.
Hernandez, a Dominican native who broke into the majors in 2016, helps Pages navigate the challenges of playing in the big leagues. He reminds younger players that the game is difficult and includes more failure than success.
Their relationship has coincided with recent success at the plate for both players. After slow starts, both Hernandez and Pages have seen their performance improve simultaneously.
Dave Roberts observed that their shared success may not be a coincidence, suggesting they push each other.
During a recent game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, both outfielders homered in the same inning. The sequence included Hernandez's 200th career home run, but he appeared more excited by Pages' long ball.
"This game is hard," Hernandez told Pages. "You’re gonna fail more times than you have success."
