Dodgers bench struggling Hernández for '2-day reset'

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts isn't starting Teoscar Hernández for Sunday's series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks due to the outfielder's recent hitting slump.

"Clearly he hasn't handled right-handed pitching," Roberts said pregame, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. "I think that a two-day reset could help. He's an everyday guy, but I do think that's where we're at. You've got to perform too."

Hernández won't play Monday either, as the Dodgers are off before starting a series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday.

The 32-year-old is slashing .211/.237/.433 with five homers, three walks, and 30 strikeouts over 24 games in August.

Roberts also called out Hernández on Aug. 19 for his defense in a loss to the MLB-worst Colorado Rockies.

Hernández has gone deep 21 times with 77 RBIs and a .732 OPS across 112 games this season. The 2024 All-Star signed a three-year, $66-million contract in the offseason after playing a key role in helping the Dodgers win the World Series.