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13 hours ago
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The Los Angeles Dodgers won the World Series in 2024. They have yet to come to terms with one of their key players in free agency, but it's not too late for them to sign him.
While predicting landing spots for free agents, Newsday's Laura Albanese predicted that the Dodgers would come to terms with Teoscar Hernández. The Dodgers missed out on Juan Soto and have not added a premier outfielder yet. A deal with Hernández seems overdue.
"The reigning home run derby champ went to the Dodgers for an absolute steal last offseason — one year, $23 million — but his 2024 performance will certainly command more than that," wrote Albanese. "The outfielder slashed .272/.339/.501 last season with 33 homers and 99 RBIs, and hit .350 in the World Series. That seems worthy of a reunion, doesn’t it?"
Hernández played on a one-year deal in 20204, betting on himself to earn a more lucrative deal this winter. He had a career year, being named to his second career All-Star game. He hit 33 home runs and had 99 RBIs. Hernández quickly became a fan-favorite for the Dodgers and has expressed his desire to stay in Los Angeles.
Hernández told reporters after the World Series that the Dodgers are his top choice, but it is not in his hands.
"The Dodgers will be my priority in free agency. I will do whatever is possible to return. It's not in my hands, but if it were I'd pick them," said Hernández.
The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal noted that Hernández is looking for a three-year deal between $66 million and $72 million. He also suggested that the hold-up on a deal is the money and not the length of the deal. Perhaps his desire to stay with the Dodgers will be enough for him to take less money than other offers.
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