Teoscar Hernández, a dynamic outfielder known for his power and consistency at the plate, made waves this offseason by signing a lucrative deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, rejecting offers from six other teams. The $66 million, four-year contract with the Dodgers marks a new chapter in Hernández’s career, and he is opening up about the decision-making process that led him to choose Los Angeles over other suitors.
In this exclusive interview, Hernández reflects on the journey that brought him to this point, the considerations that guided his decision, and what he hopes to accomplish in the next phase of his career with the Dodgers.
The Big Decision
Coming off a solid season with the Seattle Mariners, Teoscar Hernández was in high demand as a free agent. His combination of power, defense, and experience made him an attractive option for many teams looking to bolster their rosters. As one of the top available outfielders, Hernández had his pick of several competitive offers. Ultimately, he chose the Dodgers over other suitors.
“I had a lot of conversations with different teams,” Hernández explains. “It wasn’t easy to decide. But at the end of the day, I felt that Los Angeles was the right place for me, both for my career and for my personal growth as a player.”
The decision was not just about the money, though the financial aspect certainly played a role. His $66 million contract was one of the most lucrative offers of the offseason, but the situation with the Dodgers offered much more than just a paycheck. Los Angeles has long been considered one of the top organizations in Major League Baseball, known for its elite player development, winning culture, and high expectations.
“I wanted to be part of something bigger,” Hernández shares. “The Dodgers have a tradition of winning and developing great talent. I want to be part of that success, contribute to the team’s goals, and hopefully help bring another championship to LA.”
The Six Rejected Teams
While the Dodgers emerged victorious in landing Hernández’s services, it wasn’t the only team interested. The 31-year-old outfielder was courted by several other major league clubs, including some with competitive rosters that would have given him a strong chance at success.
“There were six teams that made strong offers,” he reveals. “Some of them were really close to the Dodgers in terms of what they could provide, but there was always something that felt right about Los Angeles. Some teams offered more playing time or a bigger role, but at this point in my career, I want to be part of a team that consistently competes for championships. The Dodgers have that.”
While Hernández is careful not to name all six teams involved, he emphasizes that every organization he considered had its own set of strengths. Some were in need of a reliable bat like his to stabilize their lineup. Others had talented rosters, but lacked the consistent playoff success that Hernández craved. Ultimately, the opportunity to play for a perennial contender with a track record of player development and a winning culture was too compelling to pass up.
“Ultimately, it came down to a combination of factors—financial security, competitive team, great city, and a winning environment,” he explains. “That was the best fit for me, and I knew it from the moment I had the chance to sit down and really think about it.”
What the Dodgers Offer
So, what made the Dodgers stand out among the competition? Hernández points to several key factors that influenced his decision.
1. Championship Pedigree: The Dodgers have been one of the most successful teams in recent history, winning the World Series in 2020 and consistently competing for the title year after year. Hernández admires the consistency with which the team remains competitive, and he feels his skill set can help them reach the next level.
“I want to win,” Hernández says. “The Dodgers know how to win, and I think I can contribute to that. They have everything in place—the players, the coaching staff, the front office. They’ve built a team that has a chance to win it all every season.”
2. Player Development and Support: Hernández also recognizes the Dodgers’ reputation for developing players and getting the best out of their talents. With a coaching staff that includes some of the brightest minds in baseball, Hernández is eager to continue his growth and refine his skills with the organization.
“One of the things I’ve always admired about the Dodgers is how they help players improve,” he adds. “The coaching staff has a proven track record of taking players to the next level. That’s important to me. I want to be a better version of myself, and I know the Dodgers will help me do that.”
3. The Dodgers’ Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Los Angeles has long been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, which was another appealing factor for Hernández. The culture in LA is one that celebrates players from all backgrounds, and that sense of acceptance is something that resonated with him.
“It’s a city that is diverse, inclusive, and welcoming,” Hernández reflects. “As a Latin player, I want to feel that sense of community and support. The Dodgers have always been a team that embraces players from all walks of life, and that’s something that’s important to me as well.”
4. The Opportunity to Play with Superstar Talent: Hernández is also excited about the prospect of playing alongside some of the best players in the game, including the likes of Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Clayton Kershaw. He understands the value of learning from such elite talent, and he is looking forward to sharing the clubhouse with these future Hall of Famers.
“There’s a lot to learn from the guys on this team,” he says. “I’m looking forward to getting to know them better and picking their brains. We all have the same goal—to win a championship—and I think that makes for a really strong team dynamic.”
The Bigger Picture
Beyond the immediate excitement of joining the Dodgers, Hernández sees his new contract as a long-term investment in his career and future. The four-year deal provides him with stability, but he’s also focused on the opportunity to build something lasting in Los Angeles.
“I’m really excited about the next few years,” he shares. “I think this is a place where I can continue to grow as a player, help the team win, and also make a positive impact off the field. That’s important to me, too.”
Though the financial security that comes with a $66 million contract is undeniable, Hernández is focused on the opportunity to build a legacy with the Dodgers. He wants to be remembered not just for his individual accomplishments, but for his contributions to the team’s success.
“I’ve always wanted to be part of something bigger than myself,” he explains. “The Dodgers are one of the most storied franchises in baseball, and I want to be part of that history. Winning a World Series with this team would be incredible. It’s not just about the money—it’s about the legacy, the memories, and the championships we can bring to this city.”
Looking Ahead
As Hernández prepares for his first season with the Dodgers, he’s eager to start this new chapter of his career. While the decision to sign with Los Angeles was a major one, he remains focused on the task at hand—helping his new team compete at the highest level.
“I’m ready to go to work,” he says. “I’m looking forward to being a part of this team, getting to know my teammates, and contributing in any way I can. The goal is clear—win a championship. And I’m ready to do whatever it takes to help make that happen.”
Teoscar Hernández’s decision to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers represents a pivotal moment in his career, one where he balances the financial rewards of free agency with the opportunity to compete for championships in one of the most successful organizations in Major League Baseball. The journey ahead promises to be exciting for both him and the Dodgers, as they look to make a run at another World Series title with Hernández in the fold.
