The Los Angeles Dodgers are considering other right-handed hitting options besides free agent Teoscar Hernández, as reported by The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal.
According to sources familiar with the team’s discussions, potential options include infielder Ha-Seong Kim in free agency and outfielders Seiya Suzuki from the Chicago Cubs, Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox, and others available for trade,” Rosenthal stated. The seriousness of the Dodgers’ interest in these players and the feasibility of such acquisitions are still uncertain.
Initially, a reunion between the Dodgers and Hernández seemed likely at the beginning of the off-season. However, after Juan Soto signed a significant deal with the New York Mets, the situation changed for Hernández in free agency.
Reports from Dodgers Nation suggest that the negotiations stalled due to financial reasons. Additionally, Hernández reportedly preferred not to have any deferred payments in his contract. President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman has previously stated that not every deal the organization makes involves deferred payments. The major concerns in the Hernández negotiations seem to be the annual average value of the contract and the signing bonus, rather than the deferral arrangement.
Hernández is reportedly seeking a three-year deal worth $66-$72 million. As the Dodgers explore other options for right-handed hitters, the cost of alternative free agents likely plays a significant role in their decision-making. Rosenthal also suggests that the Dodgers may be looking at other options due to the possibility of Hernández signing with another team like the Toronto Blue Jays or the Boston Red Sox.
During the Winter Meetings, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented on the potential loss of Hernández.
“It would be tough,” Roberts said about the prospect of losing Hernández and finding a replacement. “I have a lot of respect for Teo as a player and a person. He was a key player for us, starting in the majority of games and contributing significantly to our championship win. Players like him are rare.”
“It would be difficult for me to imagine the team without him returning.”
Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
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