Teoscar Hernandez, a standout player in the 2024 MLB season, has surprisingly not been re-contracted by the Los Angeles Dodgers, which is a decision that raises eyebrows.
It seems that many teams are interested in acquiring Hernandez due to his outstanding performances, including winning the Home Run Derby, becoming an All-Star, receiving the Silver Slugger award, and being part of the World Series-winning team in his first season with the Dodgers. With some top players already signed, teams who missed out on those signings may consider Hernandez as a viable option, possibly offering him a contract in the range of $22-24 million.
If the Dodgers fail to secure Hernandez, they have backup plans, as reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. These alternatives include signing a free agent like Ha-Seong Kim or exploring trades for outfielders like Seiya Suzuki from the Chicago Cubs or Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox.
The presence of Mookie Betts and his position on the team play a crucial role in determining the backup plan for not re-signing Hernandez. While Kim is versatile and has won a Gold Glove, there are considerations about his position on the field, whether it be in the outfield or infield.
Adding a player with diverse skills could be a smart move either on a short-term contract like Hernandez’s 2024 deal or a long-term agreement. Suzuki, with his impressive accolades in Japan and the Olympics, and Robert, an All-Star and Silver Slugger, are also compelling options.
While these players could soften the blow of losing Hernandez, it would make sense for the Dodgers to prioritize re-signing him, considering his positive impact on the team, support from the manager, and potential revenue from jersey sales. Ultimately, retaining Hernandez seems like the most sensible choice for the Dodgers if they aim to maintain their winning streak and fan satisfaction.
Image Source: Conor P. Fitzgerald / Shutterstock
