Teoscar Hernandez HR Derby shows he's ready to help Dodgers in October

There are two moments that define Teoscar Hernandez's half-season tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The first was his sensational series against the Yankees where he went 6-for-12 with two doubles, three home runs and nine RBIs in the Bronx. The second was Monday night in the Home Run Derby. His performance in the latter is more evidence that Hernandez is built to play in October.

While the stage for a Home Run Derby is miniscule compared to that of a postseason game or series, the principle of the matter still applies. All eyes were on Globe Life Field in Arlington on Monday night. Hernandez was the last entrant to the event, and he just figured out ways to come through.

He started slow in his first two rounds, but came out scorching hot to close both sessions. His semifinal was capped with a swing-off where he drilled two home runs in three swings to edge out Alec Bohm, who had just one homer in his three hacks.

Then in the final Hernandez took full advantage of his bonus round and slugged 14 long balls, just enough to edge out Royals superstar shortstop Bobby Witt Jr.

It felt as the event wore on, Hernandez got stronger. He seemed to be energized by the pressure and powered by the increasing shine of the spotlight. His final few homers were no-doubters deep into the sea of eager fans waiting with gloves extended.

This is a player who appears to relish the big moments, and he figures to be in some big spots playing with the Dodgers. For a team that perennially falls short in October, a player like Hernandez can be invaluable, and he showed why Monday night.

If the Dodgers make a run to the World Series this year, don't be surprised if a couple of big hits by the Home Run Derby champ help pave the way.