Dodgers' Teoscar Hernandez trade buzz opens door for $400M World Series replacement, top free agent

Hunter Cookston

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Dodgers' Teoscar Hernandez trade buzz opens door for $400M World Series replacement, top free agent image

The Los Angeles Dodgers are in an era of utter dominance, both in the NL West and across MLB as a whole. The Dodgers have now won back-to-back World Series championships, and their dynasty has officially been proclaimed after a dominant start to the decade.

“The Dodgers have officially established themselves as a dynasty in MLB. 3 World Series in 6 years. 5 World Series appearances in 9 years. 12 NL West titles in 13 years. First back-to-back World Series champion in 25 years. Next year, they go for the three-peat,” Dodgers Nation’s Noah Camras wrote.

As the winter meetings approach, a new name has surfaced on the Dodgers’ trade block: right fielder Teoscar Hernández, who brings plenty of offensive production but has had his struggles defensively. At times, his defense has been costly.

“An interesting possibility has surfaced for the two-time defending World Series champion Dodgers: A trade of right fielder Teoscar Hernández,” The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal wrote. “Hernández’s name is coming up in trade conversations, according to league sources. The Dodgers view a deal as unlikely, but the idea of it, at least, is not without logic. While Hernández has hit eight home runs with a combined.780 OPS the past two postseasons, he is also a big reason the Dodgers’ outfield defense ranked only 18th in Outs Above Average during the regular season.”

If the Dodgers trade Hernández, they could shift another player into right field. However, if they complete a deal, Kyle Tucker’s eyes may light up. The top free agent in this cycle is unlikely to return to Chicago after his end-of-season comments.

“We'll see what happens. Don't know what the future is going to hold. If not, it's been an honor playing with all these guys and wish everyone best of luck whether its playing next year or not with them,” Tucker said.

The Dodgers have made major signings in each of the last two offseasons, so making it three wouldn’t be surprising. Tucker has already visited with the Blue Jays, but if Los Angeles moves quickly, it could create the perfect opening for him.

While nothing is guaranteed at this point, the possibility of landing Tucker has to be on the Dodgers’ minds. After all, he is a better defender, and his bat isn’t far behind—if behind at all.

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Editorial Team