Ortiz Toasts Hernandez as Dodgers Advance to NLCS Again
The Los Angeles Dodgers eliminated the Atlanta Braves in Game 4 of the National League Division Series, advancing to the NL Championship Series for a third consecutive season as they pursue a repeat World Series title. Amid the celebration, MLB on FOX analyst David Ortiz shared a toast of tequila with Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez, praising his knack for delivering in high-pressure moments.
"Every time you come out quietly and do some damage, brother. … You always come through when they really, really need you. You always prepare for those moments," Ortiz told Hernandez. The outfielder went hitless in Games 3 and 4 against Atlanta but had driven in the difference in Game 1 with a two-run home run in a 5-3 Dodgers win. Soaked in beer and champagne in the visitors' locker room, Hernandez said he embraces those moments. "I love [the moments]. Throughout my career, I'm not afraid to fail. I think that's the key, and I try to pass that thing to the new guys - don't be afraid to fail," he said. "I just want to be that guy in that tough spot." biathlon betting
Hernandez's postseason composure follows a turnaround at the plate after a difficult stretch during the summer. He hit .341 with a .965 OPS, four home runs and 18 RBIs in September. Asked by MLB on FOX analyst Alex Rodriguez about the adjustments behind that surge, Hernandez said he cycled through several batting stances before settling on one. "I had like three different stances that I used throughout the season and the way I'm hitting right now is one of them. I used to have a little bit of a leg kick. Another one is similar to Shohei, to stay on the ground. And another is pulling my front leg outside and doing a toe tap. I do this to control my body, to see the ball traveling and use the whole field," he explained.
The Dodgers, chasing a third straight World Series appearance, open the NLCS on Sunday in Game 1, airing on FOX.
