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Teoscar Hernández and Evan Phillips are both nearing returns from the injured list, with each currently on rehab assignments and expected to be the next two players activated, per Dodger Blue. Both are making progress, and the Dodgers appear close to getting two significant contributors back in the fold.

Hernández has been one of the most important free-agent signings in recent Dodgers history. After signing with Los Angeles ahead of the 2024 season, he delivered in a big way — slashing .272/.339/.501 with 33 home runs and 99 RBIs during the regular season, then coming up clutch throughout the postseason run to a World Series title. He re-signed with the club and has been a cornerstone of the lineup, so his absence has been felt. Getting his bat back in the middle of the order gives us a legitimate power threat who can change a game with one swing. His ability to drive the ball to all fields and handle velocity makes him one of the more dangerous right-handed hitters in the National League when he’s healthy.

Phillips, meanwhile, has established himself as one of the premier relievers in baseball since arriving with the Dodgers. He emerged as the closer during the 2023 season and has been a high-leverage weapon ever since, with a devastating splitter that generates swings and misses at an elite rate. Losing him from the back end of the bullpen forced the staff to piece together late-inning roles, and while guys have stepped up, there’s no replacing what Phillips brings in terms of pure stuff and composure in big spots. His return should immediately stabilize the relief corps and give Dave Roberts a clear endgame in tight contests.

The timing matters here. We’re heading toward the All-Star break, and getting both of these guys back before the second half would be a real boost. The Dodgers have dealt with a brutal run of injuries this season — the article notes that even after Hernández and Phillips return, the IL list remains long — but these are two players who directly impact wins. Hernández slots back into an outfield that’s been running thin, and Phillips gives the bullpen an anchor it’s been missing. I’d expect both activations within the next week or so if the rehab stints continue going well. These aren’t depth pieces. These are core guys, and having them back changes what this roster looks like on a nightly basis.

Source(s): Staff (Dodger Blue) | First reported: June 28, 2026 3:17 PM UTC

God Bless and Go Dodgers