Dodgers getting stronger, planning to activate Teoscar Hernández

Recognizing a minor-league fastball in the middle of home plate, rehabilitating Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez drilled a home run during his third consecutive outing for Triple-A Oklahoma City.

The two-run, third-inning blast Friday night broke a scoreless tie, leading the Comets to an 8-6 win over the host Reno Aces. 

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters Saturday that he deemed the two-time All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger recipient ready to return to the major leagues.

The NL West-leading Dodgers' lineup continues to get stronger. Hernandez (hamstring) has been sidelined since May 29. In his first 11 plate appearances with the Comets, he compiled three homers and six RBI.

"It changes the dynamic and the length," Roberts said of the team's batting order before Saturday's game, per SportsNet LA.

As if the MLB's top-ranked club needs reinforcements, the Dodgers are planning to activate Hernandez before Monday night's game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento. Pitcher Gage Jump (3-1, 2.04 ERA) is slated to get the start against the NL West-leading Dodgers (52-30).

Dodgers getting deeper with LF Teoscar Hernandez returning

With Mookie Betts on a heater and the visitors facing a rookie left-hander, Hernandez could receive early swings upon his return to the deep batting order, which ranked first with a .261 team batting average.

"With Teo, there is added slug," Roberts said. "Depending (on) if he's hitting fifth, sixth or seventh, it just adds that length."

Before sustaining an injury, Herndez slashed .276/.348/.436 with seven homers and 31 RBI. During the 33-year-old's absence, Ryan Ward, Tommy Edman and Andy Call split time in left field.

The Athletic reported Hernandez's playing time would be limited initially. The right-handed hitter would likely play about four games a week. Displaying their depth, the Dodgers could utilize Edman at second and third base.

As if the back-to-back World Series champions needed additional power or depth.

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