The Los Angeles Dodgers presently lead the National League West by three games over the San Diego Padres. While they have already earned a playoff position, the club is now focused on winning the division title in the final days of the regular season.
Shohei Ohtani’s Brilliance Shines, But Hernandez Faces Uncertain Future
Shohei Ohtani’s remarkable performance continues to excite baseball fans. Teoscar Hernández, another significant contributor to the Dodgers’ success this season, is expected to enter free agency and maybe join a different team.
Teoscar Hernández’s Impressive Season with the Dodgers
Hernández, a 31-year-old right-handed slugger, has played 147 games this season and has put up good numbers. He is hitting.267/.334/.489, including a career-high 30 home runs, 92 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases. His 129 wRC+ puts him 29% ahead of the average MLB hitter, demonstrating his importance as a reliable offensive weapon.
Eyeing Free Agency: What’s Next for Hernández?
As Hernández approaches for free agency, he hopes to make a huge contribution in the postseason to improve his stock even further. His estimated free agency salary is $72.9 million over three years, with an average of $24.3 million per season. At 31 years old, Hernández would most certainly take such an offer, but considering his steady performance, he could earn considerably more.
Cardinals Expected to Pursue Hernández
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the St. Louis Cardinals are likely to be significant competitors for Hernández, as they seek to improve their batting order and outfield defense.
“Perhaps signing an offensive-minded outfielder — no, we’re not talking about Juan Soto, but rather someone such as Anthony Santander or Teoscar Hernández — would help revive the lineup,” Feinsand reports.
The Cardinals have released multiple outfielders in recent seasons, and with financial flexibility, they could actively pursue Hernández, depending on their summer strategy.
Defensive Performance: A Mixed Bag for Hernández
Hernández has played 1,248 innings in the outfield this season, with a.988 fielding percentage. However, he struggled with -2 defensive runs saved and -10 outs above average, indicating one of his poorer defensive seasons. Much of his defensive vulnerability has come from left field, where he has struggled at times. On the other hand, he has thrived in right field, his natural position, demonstrating more consistent and trustworthy defense.
Dodgers’ Salary Constraints May End Hernández’s Time in LA
Given the Dodgers’ salary structure and potential financial commitments, it appears unlikely that they will be able to keep Hernández after this season. Despite this, the Dodgers are hoping Hernández can help them win a World Series before leaving in free agency.
