Teoscar: Re-signing with Dodgers 'the priority' in free agency
Teoscar Hernández's first season in Los Angeles came with a Hollywood ending. Now, he's itching to star in the sequel.
As he heads into free agency following a stellar 2024 season with the newly crowned world champions, Hernández made it clear Friday that his first choice is to re-sign with the Dodgers on a long-term deal.
"My hopes are really high," Hernández told Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic following the Dodgers' victory parade. "Like I've said before, the Dodgers are the priority obviously. I'm going to do everything in my power to come back."
At this time last year, Hernández was entering free agency looking to rebuild his value following a miserable 2023 season with the Seattle Mariners. The Dodgers gave him that opportunity on a one-year, $23.5-million contract to fill glaring holes in their corner outfield spots.
The two-time Silver Slugger winner immediately rediscovered his old form at Dodger Stadium, hitting .272/.339/.501 with 33 homers and 99 RBIs during the regular season while making his second All-Star team and winning the Home Run Derby. He added another 15 hits and three homers during the playoffs and posted a .350/.381/.550 line during the Dodgers' World Series win.
Although he was vocal about his desire to remain a Dodger during the season, the sides did not have any extension talks leading up to the playoffs, according to Ardaya. L.A. has exclusive negotiating rights with Hernández until Monday, which is also their deadline to extend him a $21.05-million qualifying offer.
It's not yet known how much interest the Dodgers have in retaining him, though. Their efforts, if any, to re-sign the 32-year-old may even be influenced by outside factors. It was reported that the team is considering a run at superstar free agent Juan Soto, who plays the same positions as Hernández.
Nevertheless, Hernández - who was emotional while addressing the crowd during Friday's celebrations - is hopeful that he and the team can extend this marriage without delay.
"Hopefully tomorrow," he said when asked about getting a deal with L.A. done quickly. "I want us to be here. I want us to be part of this. I have so many good memories here. I've learned a lot as a player, as a person. It feels great to be part of this."