Projecting Dodgers lineup after Los Angeles brings back Teoscar Hernandez

Projecting the Dodgers Lineup After Los Angeles Brings Back Teoscar Hernández

The Los Angeles Dodgers have long been one of the most dynamic and successful teams in Major League Baseball. With a robust farm system, a commitment to player development, and a willingness to make bold moves, they’ve consistently contended for championships. The 2024 offseason has seen a continuation of this trend, and the addition of Teoscar Hernández to the Dodgers’ lineup makes them even more formidable. Hernández, an elite power-hitting outfielder, provides the Dodgers with a much-needed offensive boost and adds depth to their already potent roster.

In this article, we will project the Dodgers’ lineup following the acquisition of Hernández and explore how his presence will impact the team’s offensive production. We’ll also look at how the rest of the roster fits around him, creating a supercharged lineup that could take the Dodgers to the next level in their pursuit of a World Series title.

1. Mookie Betts – Right Field (Leadoff)

Mookie Betts is the undisputed face of the Dodgers’ offense and one of the best all-around players in Major League Baseball. His ability to hit for average, power, and his elite defense in right field make him an ideal leadoff hitter. Betts has consistently been a table-setter for the Dodgers, and his approach at the plate—working counts, getting on base, and causing havoc on the basepaths—has been key to the team’s success in recent years.

Betts is coming off another stellar season in 2023, in which he slashed .310/.413/.586 with 39 home runs and 107 RBIs. His leadership in the clubhouse and his knack for producing in big moments have made him indispensable. Having a player like Betts, who can get on base at a high clip and set the tone for the rest of the lineup, is an essential asset for the Dodgers.

With Hernández joining the team, Betts will remain in the leadoff role, where his blend of speed, patience, and power is maximized. His ability to drive the ball to all fields, along with his consistency in getting on base, will ensure that the Dodgers’ offense is humming right from the start.

2. Freddie Freeman – First Base (Second)

Freddie Freeman is one of the premier hitters in Major League Baseball, and his consistency year in and year out is a testament to his elite status. After joining the Dodgers in 2022, Freeman quickly became one of the most reliable offensive players in the National League. His smooth swing, keen eye at the plate, and ability to hit for both average and power make him the perfect player to slot into the two-hole behind Betts.

In 2023, Freeman slashed .324/.406/.521 with 29 home runs and 105 RBIs, further cementing his status as one of the best hitters in the league. Freeman’s ability to make consistent contact and get on base is invaluable, and he has also demonstrated a knack for driving in runners when the situation calls for it. Pairing Freeman with Betts at the top of the lineup gives the Dodgers a dynamic one-two punch that can set up scoring opportunities early in games.

Freeman’s power will be complemented by the newly added Hernández, giving the Dodgers an offensive trio that can do damage in multiple ways. This one-two-three punch at the top of the lineup will be hard to contain for any pitching staff.

3. Teoscar Hernández – Right Field (Third)

Teoscar Hernández brings a new dimension to the Dodgers’ lineup with his combination of power and run production. As a seasoned power hitter, Hernández has consistently put up big home run and RBI numbers. His ability to drive the ball over the fence and produce extra-base hits fits perfectly into the Dodgers’ offensive scheme.

In 2023, Hernández hit 34 home runs and drove in 104 RBIs while slashing .260/.314/.502 for the Seattle Mariners. His power is his calling card, but he’s also a disciplined hitter who can work counts and get on base. Hernández’s presence in the three-hole allows him to take advantage of the opportunities created by Betts and Freeman ahead of him. With his ability to drive in runs, he’ll be a constant threat in the middle of the lineup.

Defensively, Hernández offers versatility in the outfield, able to play both right and center field. His athleticism and arm strength make him an asset both offensively and defensively, giving the Dodgers a strong presence in the middle of their order and providing flexibility on defense.

4. Max Muncy – Third Base (Cleanup)

Max Muncy has established himself as one of the Dodgers’ most feared power hitters in recent seasons. His ability to hit for power—especially his ability to get on base and produce home runs—has made him a fixture in the middle of the Dodgers’ lineup. Muncy offers a patient approach at the plate, drawing walks and getting on base while still delivering impressive home run totals.

Muncy’s 2023 season saw him hit 36 home runs with 94 RBIs, posting a .208/.336/.489 slash line. While his batting average can be inconsistent, Muncy’s power and ability to get on base make him an ideal cleanup hitter. With Betts, Freeman, and Hernández occupying the top spots in the lineup, Muncy will have the opportunity to drive in plenty of runs and continue his role as one of the Dodgers’ most potent offensive threats.

Muncy’s plate discipline and power make him a perfect fit in the four-hole, providing protection for Hernández while keeping the lineup deep and difficult to navigate for opposing pitchers.

5. J.D. Martinez – Designated Hitter (Fifth)

J.D. Martinez is another key addition to the Dodgers’ lineup, bringing his power and consistency to the middle of the order. Martinez, a veteran slugger, has had a long career of hitting for power and driving in runs. Known for his ability to produce in clutch situations, he’s a dangerous presence in the five-hole, where he can capitalize on the opportunities created by the hitters in front of him.

In 2023, Martinez slashed .271/.358/.507 with 33 home runs and 94 RBIs for the Boston Red Sox. His ability to consistently deliver home runs and RBIs, particularly in clutch situations, will be a huge asset to the Dodgers. With a lineup that includes Betts, Freeman, Hernández, and Muncy ahead of him, Martinez will have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and contribute to the Dodgers’ offensive success.

Martinez’s ability to provide power in the five-hole will keep opposing pitchers on their toes and help balance out the Dodgers’ lineup.

6. Will Smith – Catcher (Sixth)

Will Smith has quickly established himself as one of the top catchers in Major League Baseball, and his offensive prowess has made him a key part of the Dodgers’ lineup. Smith’s ability to hit for power and average from the catcher position makes him an offensive asset, and he is capable of driving in runs and working counts to get on base.

In 2023, Smith posted a .260/.347/.506 slash line with 25 home runs and 76 RBIs. His ability to hit in key situations and provide protection for the middle of the lineup makes him an important contributor. As the Dodgers’ everyday catcher, Smith also provides solid defense behind the plate, giving the team stability both offensively and defensively.

Smith’s bat in the six-hole provides further depth to the lineup, ensuring that the Dodgers can keep the pressure on opposing pitchers throughout the game.

7. Chris Taylor – Utility (Seventh)

Chris Taylor has been a versatile and valuable player for the Dodgers, able to play nearly every position on the field. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively makes him an essential piece of the Dodgers’ roster. Taylor has shown flashes of power and the ability to get on base, making him a solid presence in the seven-hole.

In 2023, Taylor posted a .237/.315/.385 slash line with 12 home runs and 46 RBIs. While his numbers may not jump off the page, Taylor’s ability to provide depth and flexibility to the Dodgers’ lineup is invaluable. His versatility allows the Dodgers to rotate players in and out of the lineup without sacrificing production.

Taylor’s ability to hit for power and make contact in clutch situations will give the Dodgers a solid option at the bottom of the lineup, while also providing a reliable defensive presence wherever he’s needed.

8. James Outman – Center Field (Eighth)

James Outman burst onto the scene in 2023, showcasing a blend of power and speed that makes him an exciting young talent for the Dodgers. Outman’s ability to contribute both at the plate and in the field makes him an ideal candidate for the eight-hole, where he can continue to develop and contribute to the Dodgers’ success.

In his debut season, Outman posted a .238/.309/.467 slash line with 23 home runs and 71 RBIs. His speed on the basepaths and his defensive ability in center field provide the Dodgers with additional value. As Outman continues to mature, he could become a key contributor in future seasons. For now, his position in the eight-hole allows the Dodgers to take advantage of his skill set without putting too much pressure on him.

9. Gavin Lux – Second Base (Ninth)

Gavin Lux is a dynamic and talented player who has been a valuable piece of the Dodgers’ lineup. Though his 2023 season was marred by injuries, he remains a key part of the team’s future. Lux’s ability to hit for contact and his potential to contribute on the basepaths make him an ideal candidate for the ninth spot in the lineup.

In limited action in 2023, Lux posted a .250/.333/.355 slash line with 3 home runs and 20 RBIs. If he can stay healthy in 2024, Lux has the potential to provide a boost to the Dodgers’ lineup. His ability to get on base and set the table for the top of the order makes him a strong asset in the nine-hole.