Alvin Garcia
As the offseason marches, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Teoscar Hernández remain at a standstill in contract negotiations, leaving fans and analysts alike to wonder if this reunion will ever materialize. While Hernández has expressed his deep desire to return to Los Angeles and the Dodgers have acknowledged his value, the financial stalemate may soon force the organization to explore alternatives.
Hernández reportedly seeks a three-year deal worth between $66 million and $72 million. While his 2024 campaign—featuring a .272 batting average, 33 home runs, 99 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases—justifies a sizable payday, the Dodgers seem hesitant to commit to his asking price. This hesitation is understandable in the broader context of the team’s current and future financial landscape.
Despite his incredible on-field performance and strong connection with fans, the Dodgers have a history of knowing when to walk away from deals that don’t align with their valuation. They can’t afford to overpay when more pressing needs may arise elsewhere on the roster.
Every passing day without a finalized agreement only amplifies the pressure on both sides. For Hernández, the Dodgers represent familiarity and an environment where he thrived. For the Dodgers, Hernández offers a proven right-handed bat capable of anchoring the middle of the lineup. Yet, time is not a luxury in Major League Baseball’s fast-paced offseason.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported this weekend that the Dodgers are already considering potential alternatives, including Ha-Seong Kim, Luis Robert Jr., and Seiya Suzuki. Each of these players could provide significant offensive and defensive value, especially if Hernández’s demands remain too steep for the Dodgers’ liking.
The longer negotiations drag on, the greater the risk that both parties lose sight of what made this partnership so appealing to begin with. Hernández has publicly expressed his affection for the Dodgers organization, famously shedding tears at the World Series parade while thanking the team and fans for their support. But baseball is ultimately a business; emotion alone won’t get this deal done.
If the Dodgers wait too long, they may miss out on alternative options as the market evolves. Likewise, Hernández risks finding himself without the same kind of demand if other teams fill their needs elsewhere.
While the ideal outcome for both sides is Hernández returning to Los Angeles, the Dodgers can’t afford to let one player dictate their offseason strategy. If the negotiations don’t progress soon, it may be time for the team to pivot to other options. The Dodgers’ track record of building World Series-caliber rosters suggests they prioritize maintaining flexibility and avoiding an overcommitment to a single player.
For now, the ball is in Hernández’s court. He may need to reconsider his asking price to remain in Dodger Blue. Otherwise, the Dodgers might be better served focusing their attention elsewhere to ensure their roster is ready for another championship push in 2025.
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