Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández, the reigning Home Run Derby champion, will not defend his title on the eve of the 2025 MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta.
While fans expected fireworks, with the likes of Cal Raleigh and Ronald Acuna Jr. confirming their participation, Dodgers slugger Hernández has made a shocking revelation about why he is sitting this event out.
Why Teoscar Hernández is Skipping the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby
Hernández’s decision not to participate in the Home Run Derby despite being the defending champion surprised fans. The reason? To avoid risking an injury before the Dodgers pushed for the playoffs, as David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reported.
“I was considering it in the beginning, but I’m not going to do it this year — maybe next year,” Hernández said. “Last year, when I finished, my body was a little tired and tight. With the injury I have this year in my groin, I don’t want to put anything at risk. So I’m going to stay put and not participate.”
Teoscar told us he didn’t want to risk injury and be ready for second half + playoff push for #Dodgers
Hernandez was on IL in May with left groin strain. https://t.co/bE3nzOur0y
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) June 27, 2025
While the decision may catch many off guard, it shouldn’t be surprising now that he has revealed the reason. In early May, Hernández was placed on the injured list due to a left groin strain.
The 32-year-old slugger is hitting .265 with 53 RBIs and 14 home runs after resigning on a three-year, $66 million deal, with a $15 million option for a fourth season.
The Dodgers showed trust in Hernández following his crucial contribution in their championship run, including a homer in Game 5 of the NLDS against the Padres and a score-tying double during the comeback win in Game 5 of the World Series against the Yankees.
Teoscar Hernández’s Missing Home Run Derby is a Big Deal
Home Run Derby champions opting not to participate in their title-defending season isn’t unheard of, but it’s still a significant decision. Aaron Judge has not returned to the competition since winning it in 2017. Bryce Harper and Juan Soto have also done the same after their victories.
It came down to the last swing!!! 😱
What a thrilling ending to the #HRDerby pic.twitter.com/pvlS2MAekz
— MLB (@MLB) July 16, 2024
But Hernández’s absence is different. In 2024, he made history last year, becoming the first Dodger ever and the seventh Dominican-born player to win the Derby. His decision signals something bigger, putting the team’s interest over another flashy personal medal in his cabinet.
With a 52-31 record, the Dodgers comfortably lead the National League West division, the best in tall of Major League Baseball. But the real challenge? It will be October, which Hernández and Los Angeles will hope to retain once again.