Why Teoscar Hernández Should Be the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Top Offseason Priority
As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for another critical offseason, a key question looms over the front office: how do they close the gap between themselves and teams like the Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros, and the rest of the competitive MLB landscape?
While the Dodgers have consistently been a powerhouse over the last decade, their postseason shortcomings in recent years, coupled with the impending free-agent departures and roster changes, demand a shrewd, aggressive offseason.
One name that should be at the top of the Dodgers’ offseason wish list is Teoscar Hernández.
The 31-year-old right fielder, who is coming off a productive season with the Seattle Mariners, could provide the Dodgers with exactly the kind of offensive boost they need heading into 2024.
Here’s why Teoscar Hernández is the Dodgers’ top offseason priority.
1. A Proven Power Bat to Complement the Lineup
The Dodgers’ offense has been one of the league’s best in recent years, but they’ve often struggled with consistency in key spots, particularly in the middle of the lineup.
While Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman are perennial MVP candidates, the Dodgers need another reliable slugger who can both hit for power and provide balance to the lineup.
Hernández is a proven power threat. Over the past three seasons, he has averaged 30 home runs and 90 RBIs per year, with an OPS+ of 120 or better each season.
In 2023, he posted a solid .817 OPS with 26 homers and 78 RBIs for the Mariners, showing that he can handle the pressure of a playoff push and be productive in a lineup that demands high production.
With the Dodgers’ struggles in clutch situations in the postseason, Hernández’s power bat could make a huge difference in the middle of the order, providing the protection Freeman and Betts need.
His right-handed power would also offer a valuable counterbalance to the team’s left-handed-heavy lineup.
2. Defensive Stability in Right Field
While Hernández’s offensive contributions are his most notable asset, his defense in right field is also a strength.
Though he’s not regarded as an elite defender, Hernández is more than competent, with solid range, a strong arm, and a history of average or better defensive metrics.
He would be an immediate upgrade over the inconsistent right field production the Dodgers received in 2023, where they cycled through various options, none of which offered consistent defensive value or offensive upside.
The Dodgers have a tendency to make their defense a priority, especially in the outfield, where they’ve historically valued versatility and athleticism. Hernández checks those boxes and can provide stability to the outfield corner for years to come.
3. A Potential Mentor for Younger Players
The Dodgers’ roster is filled with young talent, including players like James Outman, Miguel Vargas, and others who will be looking for opportunities to step into larger roles.
Hernández, who has spent time with the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners, has experience playing on teams in contention, navigating high-pressure situations, and has seen success on both sides of the border.
His veteran presence would be invaluable for the development of the team’s younger stars.
Hernández’s work ethic, understanding of hitting at the MLB level, and experience facing some of the toughest pitchers in baseball could make him a great mentor, helping to guide some of the team’s rising stars as they work to break through.
4. A Strong Fit in the Dodgers’ Financial Flexibility
Unlike some of the other top free-agent names on the market—such as Shohei Ohtani or Juan Soto—Hernández will likely come at a more reasonable price, both in terms of contract length and salary.
While the Dodgers may have their eye on big-ticket items, they are also looking for cost-effective ways to bolster their roster without jeopardizing future flexibility.
A multi-year deal for Hernández, potentially in the $15-20 million per year range, could provide the Dodgers with a legitimate middle-of-the-order bat without breaking the bank.
This financial flexibility would allow them to pursue other needs in the bullpen or starting rotation, or even consider additional trade options.
The value Hernández brings to the table—especially in terms of power and experience—would make him a shrewd investment in a market where other high-profile players may command even higher salaries or more years.
5. Filling the Void Left by Departures
The Dodgers are likely to face some turnover in the coming months. Veterans such as J.D.
Martinez and Kiké Hernández may depart, and while both players had productive seasons, the Dodgers can no longer afford to rely on them to anchor their lineup in the long term.
Adding Teoscar Hernández would not only replace some of the offensive production that could be lost, but it would also give the team a reliable, middle-of-the-order bat that could contribute to an immediate postseason run.
Additionally, with questions surrounding the future of Cody Bellinger, who enjoyed a resurgence with the Chicago Cubs, the Dodgers could use a reliable outfield option to round out their roster and ensure they don’t lose too much offensive firepower.
6. The Dodgers’ Track Record with Power Hitters
The Dodgers have a history of success with power hitters, especially those who can take advantage of the hitter-friendly conditions at Dodger Stadium.
Over the past few years, the team has maximized the potential of hitters like Max Muncy, J.D. Martinez, and Justin Turner, with their coaching staff getting the best out of them. Hernández, who has shown he can thrive in a variety of environments, should be no different.
The Dodgers’ focus on player development and analytics makes them an ideal destination for a player like Hernández to continue to refine his swing and unlock even more potential.
Conclusion
In an offseason full of uncertainty and potential moves, Teoscar Hernández stands out as a clear priority for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
With his power bat, solid defense, veteran presence, and ability to fit into the team’s financial plans, he represents the kind of calculated, high-upside acquisition that the Dodgers have become known for.
Adding Hernández could give the Dodgers the additional offensive firepower they need to close the gap with the top teams in the league and provide a much-needed boost to their postseason aspirations.
As the Dodgers’ front office looks ahead to 2024, expect Hernández’s name to remain at the top of their offseason target list.
