Dodgers face hurdles with Hernández deal.©(@alvinmanogarcia )
The Los Angeles Dodgers and free agency outfielder Teoscar Hernández have reportedly paused their contract negotiations, with no communication between the parties in over a week. According to Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation, discussions have stalled, leaving uncertainty surrounding Hernández’s future with the team.
“Based on my sources, I can tell you that the Dodgers and Teoscar Hernández, they haven’t communicated for over a week,” McKain revealed on the latest episode of Dodgers Dugout Live. “There’s been no communication between the Dodgers and Teoscar Hernández.”
The sticking point appears to be financial, with McKain suggesting that Hernández is unsatisfied with the current offer. This has led to speculation that Hernández may explore opportunities with other teams unless the Dodgers increase their bid.
“I don’t think he will ultimately accept the deal that the Dodgers are offering Teo,” McKain explained. “I think the Dodgers will have to up their offer.”
Hernández’s stellar debut season with the Dodgers bolstered his market value. The 31-year-old shone in 2024, earning All-Star honors, winning the Home Run Derby, and setting a career-high in home runs. His contributions were pivotal in the Dodgers’ successful campaign, culminating in a World Series title.
Given his performance, McKain acknowledged that Hernández has earned a significant contract. However, he also noted that Hernández’s return to the Dodgers might require a willingness to accept less to remain with a championship-caliber team.
“I think he has earned a nice contract to be back with this team,” McKain said. “We’re gonna see how badly he wants to be back. It might require him to take a little less to be back on a World Series-contending club trying to defend their title.”
While McKain highlighted Hernández’s potential value to the Dodgers’ roster, he also emphasized that the team remains committed to striking a deal that aligns with their financial strategy.
“For where they’re at right now, the pros outweigh the cons,” McKain noted. “It’s just a matter of getting to a contract they feel good about.”
The Dodgers appear steadfast in their approach, ensuring any agreement with Hernández fits their broader plans. McKain added that if a deal is ultimately reached, it will likely reflect the terms the Dodgers were comfortable with from the outset.
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“If it ultimately ends up where Teoscar’s back on this team, you can guarantee that the Dodgers got him back on the contract they wanted to sign him on,” McKain concluded.
As the offseason progresses, the situation remains fluid. Buffs will watch near to see if the Dodgers and Hernández can bridge the gap or if the All-Star outfielder will take his talents elsewhere for the 2025 season.
