of los angeles dodgers Not only did they add an elite closing pitcher, but they emerged as one of the clear winners of the offseason Edwin Diaz However, he will solidify his corner of the outfield by officially signing on Wednesday. Kyle Tucker It will be a four-year contract worth a total of $240 million.
With these reinforcements, expectations continue to rise for Los Angeles, a team that is aiming to solidify its dynasty and win its third consecutive World Series title in 2026.
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But as the season approaches, questions remain despite the team’s seemingly unlimited payroll. Right fielder Teoscar Hernandez has been floated as a transfer candidate, and his name has surfaced in trade speculation over the winter.
The 33-year-old veteran appears in 134 games, hitting .247 with a .284 on-base percentage, .738 OPS, 25 home runs, and 89 RBIs, and is looking to break out of a slump in 2025.
Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Teoscar Hernandez (37) Brett Davis-Iman image
(Brett Davis-Imagine Images)
Hernandez’s struggles were in contrast to a tumultuous 2024 season in which he became a fan favorite in Los Angeles.
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During this campaign, he was named an All-Star, won the Silver Slugger Award, and helped bring the championship to the city. The drop in production has raised questions about his long-term fit, but it looks like he’ll at least start the 2026 season in Dodger blue.
According to a report from The Athletic’s Ken RosenthalLos Angeles is not currently expected to move Hernandez, and other names have been floated in his place.
“Having just signed free agent right fielder Kyle Tucker to a great deal, the Dodgers are expected to retain Teoscar Hernandez. Hernandez’s name has come up in trade talks, but the Dodgers will likely seek to sign 27-year-old outfielder Ryan Ward, a career minor leaguer who was the Pacific Coast League MVP last season, or disappointing right-hander Bobby Miller,” Rosenthal said. I wrote.
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While Hernandez remains, the Dodgers will have to make a decision once the contract with Tucker becomes official. At Tucker’s inaugural press conference, manager Dave Roberts clarified the team’s alignment, announcing that Tucker would be in right field and Hernandez would shift to left field.
The move not only reflects Tucker’s stature as one of the best defensive outfielders in the game, but also underscores the Dodgers’ confidence that Hernandez can provide value in his new role as they continue their quest for another championship.
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Now converted to left field, Hernandez enters 2026 with a clear opportunity to rebound both offensively and defensively, looking to prove last season was an outlier and can still be a difference-maker.
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This story was first published athlon sports First appeared on January 21, 2026. MLB section. Athlon sports Click here to select your preferred source.