These rumors were expected to grow louder when the Dodgers agreed to a deal with outfielder Kyle Tucker on Thursday. Instead of, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports this that Hernandez is expected to join the Dodgers on opening day and shift to left while Tucker takes over in right.
The Dodgers would not have sold much on Hernandez. He had perhaps his worst season in the Majors in 2025, posting a .247/.284/.454 batting line over his 546 plate appearances, hitting 25 home runs and 29 doubles. His on-base percentage and slugging were his lowest numbers in a full season, while he hit his fewest home runs in a non-pandemic shortened year since 2018.
Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez still intrigued despite a drop in production
The Dodgers were rumored to have suitors for Hernandez despite his down year. He is entering the second year of his three-year extension with the Dodgers and still owes $33 million. There’s also a team-friendly $15 million option for 2028, which would make Hernandez a steal if he returns to form over the next two years.
His relatively cheap contract, combined with his power — he has hit at least 22 home runs in every full season since settling in the Majors in 2018 — made Hernandez an attractive option for budget-conscious teams looking to improve their power. Especially the Royals was linked against Hernandez, despite Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes saying a deal was unlikely.
Keeping Hernandez has two benefits for the Dodgers. First, his ability to play at both corners of the field helps in terms of depth. Second, if he can re-establish himself in what should be a formidable lineup, he would be much more valuable on the trade front during the 2026-27 offseason. The Dodgers would likely have numerous suitors for Hernandez if he were to become available next year.
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