When we talk about the Los Angeles Dodgers, we often talk about their first three hitters. Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtnai, and Freddie Freeman might just be the best trio of hitters to lead off the first inning. However, a pretty underrated name in their order comes right after these three demons: Teoscar Hernandez.

A long-time starter for the Toronto Blue Jays, Teoscar Hernandez found himself joining the Dodgers after a short stint with the Seattle Mariners. Hernandez has been excellent for Los Angeles all season long. He's fulfilled his role as the cleanup batter quite well this season. He led the league at one point in RBIs, and he's still tied for second place as of the time of writing.

During their Saturday game against the Padres, Hernandez's cleanup hitting proved to be vital once again. He drove in four runs from a grand slam in the sixth inning to clinch the win. After the game, Hernandez commented on the emotions of playing for the Dodgers. Along the way, he seemed to take a shot at the Blue Jays. You be the judge. (via SportsNet LA)

“This is what I dream for. I'm finally here, playing for a good team, with a good rivalry.” – Teoscar Hernandez speaks with Kirsten Watson after hitting a grand slam to put the #Dodgers up 5-0.

Was that a shot at the Blue Jays? The obvious insinuation is that before joining the Dodgers, Hernandez only played for bad teams. The Jays are not a bad team: there are definitely worse teams in the league. That being said… they haven't played on the level that LA has played in that same time period. You can certainly see why Hernandez would be motivated to say that.

Related Los Angeles Dodgers NewsArticle continues below
nolan arenado, los angeles dodgers, st. louis cardinals
Dodgers’ perfect Nolan Arenado trade proposal to Cardinals
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field.
Dodgers’ Roki Sasaki confesses what’s ‘hard to tell’ about injury
Los Angeles Dodgers second base Hyeseong Kim (6) against the Athletics during the third inning at Dodger Stadium.
Hyeseong Kim receives Dodgers treat after hitting first MLB home run

Dodgers' feared batting order

Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Teoscar Hernandez (37) is congratulated by shortstop Mookie Betts (50) at the dugout after hitting a grand slam home run during the sixth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park.
Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Game 1 of this showdown between the Dodgers and the Giants ended in defeat for LA. Despite a masterful performance from Tyler Glasnow, Los Angeles still lost. Why? Well, because their vaunted offense could not get going against Michael King. There were only able to record one run for the game: a surprise considering their talent.

The Dodgers were determined to not do that again. Consecutive walks from Ohtani, Max Muncy, and Will Smith set the stage for Hernandez to smash his 11th home run of the season. The grand slam blew the game wide open, making the game 5-0 after Freddie Freeman's booming homer in the first inning.

The Dodgers have always had aspirations of winning the World Series in every year. This season, though, seems to be their most probable chance of finally attaining that goal. Their hitting is elite, with everyone able to step in and create when the need arises. Their rotation is only going to get healthier, with players returning from past injuries. The bullpen is quite solid as well.

For the Dodgers to finally win their first championship since 2020, they will need everyone to continue playing at that level. Can Hernandez continue to be clutch and be the man that sends his hitters back to home plate?