The Los Angeles Dodgers became the first back-to-back champions in a quarter-century, a little over a month ago. As the dynasty prepares to complete a three-peat in 2026, it appears the Dodgers are weighing all of their options this offseason.
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The latest update from MLB insider Ken Rosenthal indicates Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez has come up in trade discussions, somewhat of a surprise for a team that is in need of outfield depth.
“I don’t necessarily expect it to happen, but his name has come up in trade conversations. And that, to me, was certainly interesting to hear,” Rosenthal said on Foul Territory.
He then added Hernandez would be a potential fit for the Boston Red Sox, who are looking for a right-handed bat. The Red Sox expressed interest in Hernandez last offseason.
“One team that sticks out immediately, and it’s a team that’s predominantly left-handed, and it’s Boston,” Rosenthal said. “Boston has, of course, the desire to re-sign Alex Bregman, a great right-handed hitter. But if they don’t, then they’re going to do some other things. And frankly, they’re looking for two bats…Another team can fit him in better because of the DH spot being totally closed off in LA.”
The Dodgers already have a full-time designated hitter in Shohei Ohtani, which limits where LA can place Hernandez. The defensive struggles of Hernandez were evident throughout the 2025 season. With Mookie Betts becoming the Dodgers’ starting shortstop, Hernandez was placed in right field.
As the Dodgers’ primary right fielder, Hernandez graded as one of the worst outfielders in baseball with a minus-9 outs above average. The Dodgers could move Andy Pages to right, giving the young outfielder a chance to blossom in the position.
However, it is important to note that trading Hernandez would mean the Dodgers would need to find two outfielders via free agency or the trade market.
Hernandez’s offense is what makes him a viable trade option, as the market is short of right-handed hitters with pop. He would be a very suitable DH for a team that is in need of offense in the playoffs and Hernandez would be able to play in the outfield from time to time during the regular season.
The Dodgers need to sharpen their defense if they want a chance at winning it all in 2026. While Hernandez is a fan favorite in LA, his defense certainly makes him a liability in the outfield.
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