Boston Red Sox.
Teoscar Hernandez has played a pivotal role in helping the Los Angeles Dodgers get to the doorstep of the 2024 World Series. But with the postseason winding down, all eyes are on Hernandez’s next move as he’s set to become a free agent. While there will undoubtedly be interest from several teams, one destination that could be particularly intriguing is the Boston Red Sox.
Hernandez, a two-time All-Star, recently discussed his admiration for Fenway Park on WEEI’s “Baseball Isn’t Boring” podcast, hosted by Rob Bradford. He didn’t shy away from expressing his love for the atmosphere in Boston.
“Everything about that field is good,” Hernandez said. “And I don’t think it’s only me. I’m not the only player who is saying that about Fenway. The atmosphere over there is really good. The fans love the team. They go to the ballpark, and they support the team. For me, that’s a big thing when you have a good fan base.”
While Hernandez is enjoying his time with the Dodgers, the idea of potentially joining a storied franchise like the Red Sox has certainly crossed his mind. “It’s going to be a little hard for me in the next free agency. It’s going to be fun, and obviously, I’m going to try and make the best decision for me and my family,” he added.
A Career Year with the Dodgers
After signing a one-year, $23.5 million deal with Los Angeles last winter, Hernandez responded with a career-best performance. In 154 games, he posted a .272/.339/.501 slash line, hit 33 home runs, 32 doubles, drove in 99 runs, and crossed the plate 84 times. His right-handed power bat has been crucial for the Dodgers’ postseason push.
Could Boston Make a Move?
The Red Sox, who missed out on Hernandez last offseason, may have a chance to revisit the opportunity. According to Hernandez, Boston offered him a two-year, $28 million contract last year, but he was seeking a third year, which didn’t materialize. Now, with another offseason approaching, the Red Sox could emerge as serious contenders for his services.
Balancing the lineup is a key priority for Boston heading into the offseason. MLB.com’s Ian Browne noted the Red Sox’s need for more right-handed hitters, especially if they lose out on slugger Tyler O’Neill. Hernandez could be the perfect addition to a lefty-heavy Red Sox lineup.
Spotrac projects Hernandez will command a three-year, $71 million deal in free agency. If Boston can make a competitive offer, Hernandez’s familiarity with Fenway and fondness for the environment could give the Red Sox an advantage.
Fenway Park: A Perfect Fit for Hernandez
Hernandez has spent the majority of his career in the American League, specifically in the AL East with the Toronto Blue Jays. His time in the division has given him plenty of opportunities to play at Fenway, and he’s thrived in the ballpark.
Hernandez’s .950 OPS at Fenway Park is the highest of any stadium in which he’s had at least 100 plate appearances. Across 189 plate appearances in Boston, he’s hit .282/.344/.606 with 14 home runs, nine doubles, two triples, 44 RBIs, and 36 runs scored.
His success in Fenway makes the idea of him signing with the Red Sox even more tantalizing for both the player and the team. If the Red Sox are serious about bolstering their lineup with a proven power bat, Teoscar Hernandez could be just the right fit to energize Fenway Park in 2025 and beyond.
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