The Los Angeles Dodgers and outfielder Teoscar Hernández are contemplating a reunion after their successful collaboration last season, but discussions have yet to result in a formal agreement. According to Alden González from ESPN, negotiations have been ongoing for several weeks, but the two parties are struggling to find common ground.
Hernández, now 32, faced a challenging season before joining the Dodgers, having previously been a free agent following a less-than-stellar performance. During the three years from 2020-2022 with the Toronto Blue Jays, he recorded impressive figures—.283/.333/.519 with a 132 wRC+. However, after being traded to the Seattle Mariners, his performance dipped to .258/.305/.435 with a 106 wRC+. Seattle allowed Hernández to enter free agency without extending a qualifying offer, and he remained unsigned until January. Ultimately, he decided to sign a one-year, $23.5 million deal with the Dodgers, despite receiving a two-year, $28 million offer from the Red Sox.
The choice turned out to be beneficial for both Hernández and the Dodgers. In the recently concluded season, he achieved a .272/.339/.501 batting line with a 134 wRC+, bouncing back from his prior struggles and contributing significantly during the postseason, helping the Dodgers secure a World Series title. His success led him to openly express a desire to return to Los Angeles.
Despite predictions that Hernández would be one of the early big signings of the winter, no deal has materialized yet. Given his previous difficult experience in free agency, he may be eager for a swift conclusion, but his strong season indicates he will seek a contract that reflects his market value rather than just accepting any offer.
However, the Dodgers’ recent acquisition of Michael Conforto adds complexity to Hernández’s potential return. Although the team remains interested in re-signing him, their urgency may have lessened with Conforto now on the roster. The Dodgers’ outfield could feature Conforto, Tommy Edman, and Andy Pages, with James Outman providing additional support. The designated hitter spot, typically an option, is occupied by Shohei Ohtani, limiting Hernández’s playing opportunities.
There’s still a chance that Hernández could find a spot in a platoon system, especially since Conforto, Outman, and prospect Dalton Rushing are all left-handed batters. However, given his strong season and predictive estimates suggesting a potential three-year, $60 million contract, Hernández is likely looking for more than a limited role.
The ongoing situation has opened the door for other potential suitors to enter the competition for Hernández’s services. With recent player transactions reshaping the free agency landscape, clubs like the Yankees, Red Sox, and Blue Jays—who were previously involved in high-profile deals—may consider Hernández as a viable alternative. The outfield market remains broad, with names such as Anthony Santander and Jurickson Profar still available, while trades might see familiar faces like Cody Bellinger being engaged.
Should Hernández sign with another team, the Dodgers will receive compensation since he declined a qualifying offer. However, the compensation might be modest due to the team’s previous competitive balance tax payment, resulting in a draft pick after the fourth round.
In summary, while the possibility of a reunion between Teoscar Hernández and the Los Angeles Dodgers remains alive, the present circumstances add uncertainty. The Dodgers must weigh their roster’s construction alongside Hernández’s aspirations, all amidst a competitive market and the potential for other teams to step in. This developing story could ultimately lead to exciting outcomes for both Hernández and the Dodgers as they navigate the offseason.