Dodgers expected to keep former All-Star outfielder

Trade rumors have swirled around Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez throughout the offseason. 

Those rumors were expected to get louder when the Dodgers agreed to terms with outfielder Kyle Tucker on Thursday. Instead, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that Hernandez is expected to be a member of the Dodgers on Opening Day, shifting to left as Tucker takes over in right.

The Dodgers would have been selling low on Hernandez. He had arguably his worst season in the majors in 2025, posting a .247/.284/.454 batting line over his 546 plate appearances, hitting 25 homers and 29 doubles. His on-base percentage and slugging were his lowest marks in a full season, while he hit his fewest home runs in a non-pandemic shortened year since 2018.

Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez still intrigued despite a dropoff in production

The Dodgers were rumored to have suitors for Hernandez despite his down year. He is set to begin the second year of his three-year extension with the Dodgers and is owed another $33 million. There is also a team-friendly $15 million option for 2028 that would make Hernandez a bargain if he returns to form over the next two years.

His relatively inexpensive contract, coupled with his power — he has hit at least 22 homers in every full season since establishing himself in the majors in 2018 — made Hernandez an attractive option for budget-conscious teams looking to improve their power. The Royals, in particular, had been linked to Hernandez despite Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes saying a deal was unlikely.

Keeping Hernandez has two benefits for the Dodgers. First, his ability to play either outfield corner spot helps in terms of depth. Second, if he can rebound in what should be a formidable lineup, he would be that much more valuable on the trade front during the 2026-27 offseason. The Dodgers would likely have numerous suitors for Hernandez should he be made available next year.