Dodgers set to re-sign outfielder Teoscar Hernández for $66 million over 3 years, AP source says

In a major move that solidifies the Los Angeles Dodgers’ outfield and enhances their chances for the 2024 season, Teoscar Hernández, one of the top free-agent outfielders on the market, is reportedly returning to the Dodgers on a three-year deal worth $66 million. This re-signing, confirmed by an anonymous source with knowledge of the situation, is expected to bring stability, power, and consistency to an already talented roster as the Dodgers continue their quest for another World Series title.

Hernández, who is coming off a solid tenure with the Toronto Blue Jays, is known for his explosive bat, a power hitter who has the ability to turn games with a swing of the bat. His return to Los Angeles signals the Dodgers’ intent to maintain their competitive edge in the National League and continue building a roster that can compete for the ultimate prize in baseball—the World Series.

This article takes a deep dive into why this move is so significant for the Dodgers, what Hernández brings to the table, and how his re-signing fits into the broader landscape of MLB free agency.

A Look at Teoscar Hernández’s Career

Teoscar Hernández’s journey to becoming one of Major League Baseball’s most coveted free agents was not one that followed a straight line. Initially signed by the Houston Astros in 2011 as an international free agent, Hernández was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays in 2017, where his career truly took off. He broke out as one of the Blue Jays’ most reliable hitters, showcasing his ability to hit for both power and average.

Over his career, Hernández has been an explosive force at the plate. He has consistently posted strong offensive numbers, with several seasons featuring 20-plus home runs and 80-plus RBIs. His impressive offensive output in recent years, including a 2023 campaign in which he slashed .291/.351/.498 with 28 home runs and 85 RBIs, only enhanced his market value, making him one of the top outfield options heading into free agency.

Hernández has always been a strong bat in the middle of the order, but his numbers are more than just power-driven. He has consistently shown the ability to get on base with a solid walk rate, which further solidifies his value. His offensive prowess was one of the key reasons the Dodgers targeted him, as the team needed a player capable of adding power to a lineup that had at times been inconsistent in recent years.

Defensively, Hernández is no slouch either. While not known for elite defensive metrics, he is an above-average outfielder, capable of playing both corner spots and handling the demands of center field if needed. His strong arm and reliable glove make him a capable and versatile defender, which is vital for a Dodgers team that values a balanced approach on both sides of the ball.

Why the Dodgers Made This Move

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been at the forefront of success in MLB for nearly a decade, consistently reaching the playoffs and competing for World Series titles. However, despite their regular-season dominance, the Dodgers have fallen short of their ultimate goal in recent years, failing to win the World Series since their 2020 title. A key factor in those playoff disappointments has been inconsistency in the batting order, particularly in the power department.

The addition of Teoscar Hernández addresses that exact need. With stars like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith already in the lineup, the Dodgers’ offensive core is already formidable. However, Hernández’s power bat will complement the existing talent, providing depth and flexibility. The Dodgers’ lineup now looks even more dangerous, with Hernández capable of hitting anywhere from the middle to the lower part of the order.

In addition to bolstering the offense, the Dodgers’ acquisition of Hernández is also a statement move, indicating the team is serious about competing for another World Series title in 2024. The Dodgers’ front office has made it clear that they will not settle for anything less than a championship-caliber roster. By bringing Hernández back into the fold, the team adds another piece to a well-rounded squad, ensuring they are capable of going toe-to-toe with any of their National League rivals.

The deal also reflects the Dodgers’ long-term strategy. By re-signing Hernández to a three-year deal worth $66 million, the team is investing in both immediate success and future stability. At 31 years old, Hernández still has several productive years ahead of him, and this contract allows the Dodgers to capitalize on his peak production while avoiding a long-term commitment. The team can continue to build for the future while remaining competitive in the present.

The Financial Implications of the Deal

The reported $66 million contract represents a significant financial commitment by the Dodgers, but it is also a relatively fair price for a player of Hernández’s caliber. At an average annual value (AAV) of $22 million per year, the deal aligns with the contracts given to other top free-agent outfielders in recent years. In a market where salaries have skyrocketed, the Dodgers’ ability to sign Hernández to this deal reflects both their willingness to invest in a top-tier player and their financial flexibility.

This signing also underscores the Dodgers’ commitment to staying competitive despite the increasing demands of player salaries. The team has a large payroll, but they are clearly willing to allocate resources in order to secure talent that can make a difference on the field. Hernández’s deal fits within the Dodgers’ budgetary plans, and the front office has the financial capacity to add further pieces as needed, whether through trades or other free-agent signings.

While some critics might argue that the Dodgers’ spending spree is excessive, it’s important to remember that the team operates in a major market like Los Angeles, where the revenue from television deals, sponsorships, and ticket sales provides a larger financial cushion compared to other teams. This allows the Dodgers to spend freely, making investments in players like Hernández to bolster their chances at winning a championship.

What This Means for the Dodgers’ 2024 Roster

With Hernández back on board, the Dodgers now have one of the most complete and formidable rosters in baseball. The team’s offense is significantly deeper, with more protection for Betts, Freeman, and Smith. Hernández’s presence in the lineup helps mitigate the loss of any key players who might struggle or face injury over the course of the season.

Outfield Depth: Hernandez’s re-signing brings much-needed depth to the outfield, where the Dodgers now have a mix of power, speed, and versatility. Betts and Hernández are likely to play every day, with Chris Taylor and James Outman providing options for defensive flexibility and off-day rest. This depth allows the Dodgers to field a consistently strong outfield, even in the event of injuries.

Increased Lineup Protection: Hernández’s bat will provide additional protection for Freeman and Betts, both of whom will now face less pressure to carry the lineup alone. This protection is especially valuable in the postseason, where facing elite pitching can expose vulnerabilities in a lineup. With Hernández, the Dodgers now have a more balanced and complete lineup that should be capable of handling any challenge.

Postseason Contention: For the Dodgers, postseason success has been elusive in recent years. Adding a player like Hernández ensures they are better equipped to handle the grind of October baseball. His power bat and ability to perform in clutch situations will be invaluable when the team faces off against the toughest competition in the postseason.

The Bigger Picture: The Dodgers’ Championship Window

The Dodgers are operating in a championship window that has been open for several years, but with the 2024 season fast approaching, this may be one of the final years the team’s core is intact. Players like Freeman, Betts, and Kershaw will eventually be on the back nine of their careers, which means the Dodgers are under pressure to win another World Series title while they have this group together.

Hernández’s addition makes the Dodgers a more complete team heading into the season. His power bat, combined with a pitching staff that features ace Clayton Kershaw, Julio Urías, and Dustin May, ensures the team remains one of the most well-rounded contenders in the league. The window for championship contention is always shifting, but with Hernández back in the fold, the Dodgers have made another major move that will help them chase down their elusive second World Series title in four years.