The start of a new season means an opportunity to break in fresh equipment, and Teoscar Hernández is using that as an opportunity to show support for his son and raise autism awareness.
Now in his third season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Hernández wears protective padding on his left elbow, left hand and left shin while at the plate that features a colorful puzzle pieces design associated with autism awareness.
Hernández explained during an appearance on “Dodger Talk” with David Vassegh it all is in honor of his oldest son and all others who are affected.
“I did it for my older kid. He’s on the spectrum for autism. This year I tried to do something different, something for him and for the rest of the people around the world that are dealing with that. I think the more we talk about it, the easier it will be for those families and kids on the spectrum.
“It was something I did for my boy and for the rest of the kids, adults, that are dealing with that too. You’re just trying to give a little bit of support from here to anywhere people see it. Hopefully they can notice and know that I’m doing that for my son and the rest of the people.”
Autism, also referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), applies to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated one in 31 children, and one in 45 adults in the United States.
Hernández and his wife, Jennifer, are parents to three sons: Teoscar Jr., Julian and Mateo Javier. The couple have posted photos and videos of their children on Instagram, including when they were on hand for his bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium and Home Run Derby championship.
Teoscar Hernández joined autism workshop
Last May, the Dodgers and actress Holly Robinson Peete hosted an event at Dodger Stadium along with the HollyRod Foundation to bring together more than 30 participants in celebration of Autism Awareness Month.
Hernández, Tony Gonsolin and Jack Dreyer interacted with the group, and made friendship bracelets and artwork alongside them as part of the sensory-friendly workshop.
RJ Peete, the son of Holly Robinson and Rodney, is a Dodgers clubhouse attendant who is beloved by players and throughout the organization. RJ was diagnosed with autism at the age of three and has been a Dodgers clubbie since the 2016 season.
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