Dodgers Set to Sign $71 Million Slugger, Despite Red Sox Rumors
Teoscar Hernández, the Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder, entered free agency at the start of the offseason, and the expectation was that he would return to the Dodgers. Initially, his free agency appeared straightforward, with many predicting a reunion with the team. However, the Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays have emerged as strong contenders for the talented outfielder, especially after both teams missed out on acquiring Juan Soto earlier this winter. As a result, the question has arisen: could either of these two American League East teams manage to lure Hernández away from the Dodgers?
Despite these rumors linking Hernández to the Red Sox or Blue Jays, Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley anticipates that the outfielder will ultimately re-sign with Los Angeles. Buckley suggests that Hernández is likely to land a three-year deal worth around $71 million, as projected by Spotrac. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has also expressed confidence that a reunion with Hernández is still in the cards, although Buckley notes that the longer the outfielder remains without a contract, the more uncertain that possibility becomes. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand has pointed out that the delay in finalizing a deal has opened the door for both the Red Sox and Blue Jays to enter the bidding for Hernández, making the situation more unpredictable.
One major factor in this equation is Hernández’s asking price. Reports indicate that he is seeking a contract in the range of $22-24 million per year over three years, which could be a sticking point for the Dodgers. While the team has expressed interest in bringing him back, it’s unclear whether they are willing to meet his financial demands. On the other hand, Hernández’s previous willingness to accept deferred money in his one-year deal last season could work in the Dodgers’ favor. The team might be able to use deferred payments as a tool to negotiate a deal slightly below the figure the Red Sox or Blue Jays might be prepared to offer. The Dodgers’ recent success, including their World Series title, could also help them convince Hernández to return on terms that are mutually agreeable.