"I still expect the Dodgers to re-sign Teoscar Hernandez" - MLB insider predicts 2x All-Star strategy amid prolonged negotiations
Teoscar Hernandez remains one of the biggest names on the market. The All-Star outfielder is coming off a tremendous season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, clobbering a career-best 33 home runs en route to his first World Series championship. As a result, the veteran outfielder is seeking a significant payday, which is understandable given his success in 2024.
Although Hernandez has been linked to a number of clubs this offseason, including his former team, the Toronto Blue Jays, there is mutual interest in a reunion with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Both sides have expressed a desire to continue their relationship; however, there has yet to be significant progress in negotiations.
MLB insider Ken Rosenthal spoke about the issue on the latest episode of "Fair Territory."
"I still expect them to re-sign Teoscar Hernandez," Rosenthal said. "This is seemingly the dance that the two sides are going through. It's taking much longer than it should have. Teoscar wants to be back; the Dodgers want him back."
It remains to be seen what contract Hernandez will be able to secure on the open market, however, given the increase in outfield salaries in recent years. According to fellow MLB insider Mark Feinsand, the two-time All-Star is reportedly seeking a three-year contract with an average annual salary of up to $25 million per season.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly eyeing alternatives to Teoscar Hernandez as the negotiations continue
Although Ken Rosenthal reported that the Dodgers and Teoscar Hernandez are eager to extend their relationship, he also noted that the team is remaining open to alternatives on the trade market. While this may simply be a case of due diligence, some solid options are reportedly available for the right price who could serve as suitable replacements for Teoscar.
"The Dodgers are looking at different alternatives," Rosenthal said. "One is a trade for Seiya Suzuki, who probably is not available. Two is trade for Luis Robert Jr., who is highly available."
Seiya Suzuki and Luis Robert Jr. are two solid options for the Dodgers if they are looking to replace Teoscar via trade. However, it will come down to the asking price. The Los Angeles Dodgers have several intriguing prospects whom they could package together if they decide to go that route.