This week, the Dodgers signed starting pitcher Blake Snell to a five-year, $182 million deal and extended utility man Tommy Edman for five years and $74 million. While their spending spree continues, one beloved member of the Dodgers’ World Series roster has been left out: left fielder Teoscar Hernández. Hernández, who signed a one-year, $23.5 million deal with the Dodgers last offseason, is expected to attract a lot of interest after bouncing back from a rough 2023 season, positioning himself for a much larger contract this winter.
An intriguing potential destination for Hernández that the Dodgers may not be considering as a serious threat, however, is the Cincinnati Reds.
On Friday, Andy McCullough of The Athletic predicted that Hernández would sign with the Reds, though he acknowledged the possibility of a Dodgers reunion. The same outlet recently projected a three-year, $69 million deal for Hernández.
“There’s a good chance Hernández returns to the Dodgers, but let’s indulge a fantasy for a moment,” McCullough said. “The Reds brought Terry Francona out of retirement by offering the chance to win with a young core.”
“The lineup could certainly use a cleanup hitter, and Reds owner Bob Castellini has supported payrolls over $100 million before, so he could afford it in 2025,” he added.
Hernández had a standout 2024 season, hitting 33 home runs and posting an .840 OPS—arguably his best season yet. Cincinnati’s hitter-friendly ballpark could allow him to thrive even further.
While Hernández enjoys his time in LA, it would take a lot for Cincinnati to lure him away. However, the prospect of playing alongside rising stars like Elly De La Cruz and Matt McClain could be an appealing offer for the 32-year-old as he considers his future.