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The Los Angeles Dodgers have been busy navigating the offseason, trying to retool and strengthen their roster in anticipation of another deep playoff run. Among the potential targets, one name that has been consistently linked to the Dodgers is Teoscar Hernández, the powerful outfielder who played for the Seattle Mariners in 2023. Recently, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts hinted that the team may be very close to securing a deal that would bring Hernández back to Southern California.
Roberts’ comments have reignited speculation about the potential acquisition of Hernández, who is coming off a season in which he showed off his bat power while playing in a difficult environment in Seattle. While the Dodgers’ front office continues to explore various options, the prospect of adding Hernández would be a significant move, given the needs and goals of the team. But what exactly could Hernández bring to the Dodgers, and why does Roberts feel that the team is close to pulling the trigger on a deal?
The State of the Dodgers’ Offseason
Before diving into the specifics of Teoscar Hernández and his fit with the Dodgers, it is important to look at the overall context of the team’s offseason. The Dodgers have been active in the trade and free-agent markets, as they aim to bolster their roster in key areas, especially in the outfield and pitching staff.
Following a season where the Dodgers fell short of their World Series aspirations, there have been a number of changes to the roster. The team saw several veteran players depart through free agency, while others like Clayton Kershaw are still considering their futures in Los Angeles. With this uncertainty, the Dodgers are looking for ways to maintain their championship-caliber team while planning for future seasons.
In particular, the Dodgers have been focused on improving their offense. Despite their regular-season dominance, the team’s playoff performance was less than stellar in 2023, with struggles in key situations, particularly from the middle of the order. Adding another consistent bat, especially one with power potential, has been identified as a priority by general manager Andrew Friedman and the front office.
Teoscar Hernández: The Power Bat the Dodgers Need
Teoscar Hernández’s name has been one of the most popular in trade rumors and free-agent discussions this offseason, and there are multiple reasons why the Dodgers are so interested in him. For starters, Hernández is a proven power hitter, which is exactly what the Dodgers need to add to their lineup. Over the last four seasons, he has consistently hit for power, with home run totals of 25 or more each year.
In 2023, playing for the Mariners, Hernández hit .241 with 26 home runs and 76 RBIs. His numbers were somewhat down compared to his peak in 2021, but it’s important to note that he was playing in a park (T-Mobile Park) that is generally more pitcher-friendly. Despite this, Hernández was still able to deliver solid offensive production. His ability to drive the ball out of the park is a trait that the Dodgers covet, especially in a lineup that has struggled to produce long balls in key moments.
Another key factor is Hernández’s experience in both the American League and National League. The Dominican outfielder has spent time with both the Toronto Blue Jays and the Seattle Mariners, gaining exposure to different league environments and pitching styles. This versatility is something the Dodgers value as they seek to build a roster that can perform across all situations.
What makes Hernández even more intriguing is his ability to get hot at the right time. He has been known to carry a team during certain stretches of the season, something the Dodgers could greatly benefit from, especially when you consider their need for a dynamic hitter in the heart of the order. The addition of a player like Hernández could provide a much-needed boost to the Dodgers’ offense, which sometimes falls into periods of inconsistency.
Why Dave Roberts Believes the Dodgers Are Close
Dave Roberts’ recent comments about the Dodgers being “close” to acquiring Teoscar Hernández have caused quite a stir in the baseball community. While Roberts did not reveal any specifics about the discussions, his statement suggests that talks are far along. There are a few key reasons why the Dodgers might be in such an advantageous position when it comes to adding Hernández.
1. The Dodgers’ Need for Power
As mentioned earlier, the Dodgers have been searching for additional power in their lineup. Teoscar Hernández fits this bill perfectly, offering the type of bat that can provide an immediate impact in the middle of the order. The team is looking for someone who can complement its existing stars like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, both of whom are capable of getting on base but might benefit from added protection in the lineup.
By acquiring Hernández, the Dodgers would get a player capable of hitting in the 4th or 5th spot in the order, providing protection for Betts and Freeman while also allowing the Dodgers to utilize him against both left-handed and right-handed pitchers. His right-handed bat could also balance out a predominantly left-handed-heavy Dodgers lineup.
2. The Mariners’ Trade Position
Seattle’s front office is reportedly looking to make moves this offseason, and Hernández could be a player the Mariners are willing to move, particularly as they try to make improvements in other areas. Hernández’s current contract and potential for further production could make him a prime trade candidate, and this aligns with the Dodgers’ need to improve their outfield depth.
The Dodgers have a strong track record of making big moves, and their deep farm system provides them with the trade capital to potentially acquire Hernández without having to break the bank. While the Mariners may be looking for prospects or younger players in return, the Dodgers are well-positioned to make a competitive offer.
3. Financial Flexibility
The Dodgers have always operated with a large payroll, but they also value smart financial decisions. Hernández is entering his final year of arbitration before becoming a free agent after the 2024 season, meaning he could be acquired at a relatively lower cost compared to a player signed to a long-term contract. This makes him an attractive target for the Dodgers, who could bring in a proven power hitter for a single season, giving them flexibility in their payroll while also improving the team.
While the Dodgers may be reluctant to take on long-term financial commitments, adding a player like Hernández for one season could be a move that pays immediate dividends. Given the team’s deep postseason aspirations, they might see this as a short-term investment that could push them over the top.
4. Team Chemistry and Fit
Another important factor in Roberts’ belief that the Dodgers are close to bringing in Hernández is his fit within the team’s culture. Hernández has been praised for his clubhouse presence and ability to lead by example. While the Dodgers are a team that values both talent and chemistry, Hernández has shown himself to be a good fit for the type of leadership dynamic the team has built in recent years. He is a veteran player with a strong work ethic, and that type of mentality could be a great complement to a locker room that already includes stars like Betts, Freeman, and Kershaw.
Additionally, Hernández has the versatility to play all three outfield positions, something the Dodgers value when adding players to their roster. While the outfield depth is important, the ability to move around the field depending on matchups or injuries is a significant asset. Hernández’s flexibility gives the Dodgers the freedom to move their other players around without losing out on production.
The Next Steps for the Dodgers
If the Dodgers are truly close to bringing Teoscar Hernández back to Los Angeles, there are still a few more steps to go before a deal is finalized. This could include continued negotiations with the Mariners, finalizing terms, and perhaps a physical examination before any official announcement is made. However, the fact that Roberts is already expressing optimism about the deal speaks volumes about how far along the discussions have progressed.
The Dodgers may also be waiting for the right timing to announce the deal, as they continue to evaluate other aspects of their roster and see if there are additional moves to be made. Given the depth of the Dodgers’ front office and their willingness to make bold moves when needed, this acquisition could be just one part of a larger plan to strengthen the team for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
Teoscar Hernández is an intriguing target for the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Dave Roberts’ recent comments suggest that the team is on the verge of finalizing a deal to bring the outfielder back to Southern California. Hernández’s power bat and ability to hit in the middle of the lineup would be a huge asset for the Dodgers, who are looking to bolster their offense in 2024. With the Mariners reportedly open to trade talks and the Dodgers well-positioned to make a move, it seems like this potential acquisition is just a matter of time. If Hernández does join the Dodgers, it could be the final piece the team needs to reclaim its place at the top of the baseball world.
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