The Dodgers’ offseason strategy seems to be all about balancing big-name acquisitions with calculated, under-the-radar signings. The Blake Snell deal certainly made waves, giving the team a Cy Young-caliber arm to headline their rotation. However, the one-year signing of Teoscar Hernández could be just as impactful in terms of value and versatility.
Hernández’s ability to provide middle-of-the-order power and defensive stability in the outfield offers a low-risk, high-reward proposition. At $23.5 million, it’s a relatively modest commitment for a player with a history of production, particularly considering how his bat could thrive in a stacked Dodgers lineup. If Hernández maintains the form that made him an All-Star in 2021 and 2022, this could be another example of the Dodgers leveraging their resources to extract maximum value.
Moves like these illustrate how Los Angeles builds World Series-caliber rosters—investing heavily in marquee talent while also unearthing gems that complement their stars.
Teoscar Hernández’s offseason is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing storylines, especially following a resurgent 2024 season with the Dodgers. His performance not only solidified his value as a key contributor but also positioned him as one of the more sought-after free-agent outfielders. While the Dodgers have the inside track due to familiarity and financial resources, Ken Rosenthal’s assessment underscores the unpredictable nature of free agency.
The Toronto Blue Jays re-entering the picture is particularly compelling. Hernández’s close relationship with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. could make Toronto an appealing destination, especially if the Blue Jays view his return as a strategic move to secure their franchise cornerstone. Adding a proven middle-of-the-order bat like Hernández could reinvigorate their lineup and help them stay competitive in the AL East.
The Dodgers’ approach to free agency, as Rosenthal points out, could complicate matters. Their tendency to wait for the market to come to them may give the Blue Jays—or another aggressive team—a window to strike first. While Los Angeles has the ability to outbid most teams, their calculated approach sometimes prioritizes value over urgency, which could allow a motivated suitor to swoop in.
Ultimately, Hernández’s decision will likely come down to a mix of financial security, team competitiveness, and personal connections. While the Dodgers are in an excellent position, a team like the Blue Jays could make a strong enough offer—both financially and emotionally—to lure him away from the reigning champions.
Meanwhile, the Blue Jays are in need of an offensive spark after finishing 23rd in runs scored per game last season, and bringing in a recognizable face like Hernandez might go a long way toward improving their struggling offense.
Teoscar Hernandez’s incredible 2024 season with the Dodgers is about to make him a very rich man
Teoscar Hernandez has been a prominent source of power production since his debut as an everyday player in 2018. However, he struggled in 2023, as his overall batting average dropped, opening the way for the Dodgers to sign him.
This was the best decision Hernandez and the Dodgers could have taken; Hernandez returned to form last season, hitting 33 home runs and driving in 99 runs while batting.272/.339/.501, good for 3.5 WAR (according to Fangraphs). Then, in the playoffs, Hernandez appeared in all 16 Dodgers games while contributing significantly at the plate. He’s about to become a very affluent man.
