As the Boston Red Sox gear up for an active offseason, one name that continues to surface as a potential target is slugger Teoscar Hernández. After a standout season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Hernández is poised to hit the free-agent market again, and the Red Sox could be in a prime position to make a competitive offer.
A Missed Opportunity Last Winter
Boston was heavily linked to Hernández last winter, reportedly offering him a two-year, $28 million deal. However, the talented outfielder opted for a one-year, $23.5 million contract with the Dodgers, seeking a longer-term commitment that he ultimately didn’t receive. It turned out to be a savvy decision; Hernández enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career, earning a spot on the National League All-Star team. He finished the year with impressive stats: a .272 batting average, 33 home runs, and 99 RBIs, contributing a remarkable 4.3 wins above replacement (WAR) according to Baseball Reference. His postseason performance was equally impressive, driving in 13 runs in 16 games and helping the Dodgers secure a World Series title.
A Second Chance at Free Agency
Now, as Hernández enters free agency once again, he’s looking for the long-term deal he craved last year. ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez reports that while Hernández expresses a desire to remain a Dodger, he’s also seeking greater job security. If the Red Sox are willing to increase their previous offer, they might just have a shot at bringing him to Fenway Park.
Gonzalez notes, “The Red Sox were the most aggressive after him last offseason… Perhaps they kick in the extra year or two and get it done.” Given Hernández’s proven ability to produce at the plate, he could provide the right-handed power the Red Sox have acknowledged they need.
Filling the Need for Right-Handed Power
The Red Sox are currently seeking to bolster their lineup, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Tyler O’Neill’s future. Adding Hernández would not only enhance their offensive capabilities but also provide a crucial right-handed bat in a lineup that features Rafael Devers and promising young talent like Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer.
While Hernández may not be a defensive standout, he could comfortably hold down left field at Fenway Park, where the defensive demands are less stringent than in other stadiums. His offensive prowess would certainly make him a valuable addition to the middle of the order.
A Strong Fit for Both Sides
Hernández has previously spoken highly of Boston and Fenway Park, indicating that he could thrive in this environment. The combination of his offensive skills and his familiarity with the city could make for a perfect match. As the Red Sox look to revitalize their roster and return to contention, pursuing Teoscar Hernández this winter would be a move worth considering.
With the potential for an exciting offseason ahead, all eyes will be on the Red Sox and their willingness to invest in a player who could significantly impact their success in 2025 and beyond. As Hernández weighs his options, Boston could very well be the landing spot he’s been looking for.
