Red Sox Emerge as Top Contender for $71 Million for Deal with 2-Time All-Star Slugger

Outfielder Teoscar Hernandez  has been instrumental in helping the Los Angeles Dodgers reach the brink of the 2024 World Series. However, the two-time All-Star will become a free agent once LA’s postseason run concludes. Might he be interested in signing with the Boston Red Sox?

During a recent appearance on WEEI’s “Baseball Isn’t Boring” podcast with Rob Bradford, Hernandez expressed his admiration for playing at Fenway Park.

“Everything about that field is fantastic,” he said. “And it’s not just me saying this; many players feel the same. The atmosphere there is incredible. The fans are passionate and show up to support the team. For me, having a strong fan base is really important. It’s been great here too, with fans who are dedicated to their team. Navigating free agency will be a bit challenging for me, but I’m looking forward to it and will make the best decision for my family.”

Hernandez signed a one-year, $23.5 million contract with the Dodgers last winter and had a standout season, posting a .272/.339/.501 batting line with 33 home runs, 32 doubles, 99 RBIs, and 84 runs in 154 games.

The Red Sox are in need of a power hitter like Hernandez. This offseason, they need to balance their left-handed-heavy lineup, especially if right-handed slugger Tyler O’Neill signs elsewhere. MLB.com’s Ian Browne highlighted the importance of addressing this issue and mentioned Hernandez, along with third baseman Alex Bregman and shortstop Willy Adames, as potential fits.

Boston was a finalist for Hernandez before he signed with Los Angeles last winter. He revealed in July that the Red Sox had offered him a two-year, $28 million deal, but he was seeking a third year. Ultimately, he decided to sign with the Dodgers rather than risk a subpar offer on the open market.

“I wasn’t going to spend my free agency chasing a bad deal. I love the Red Sox; they’re one of my favorite teams,” Hernandez said. “I enjoy playing at Fenway, but I have to prioritizewhat’s best for my career and my family.”

Spotrac predicts that Hernandez will secure a three-year, $71 million contract in free agency. If the Red Sox present a competitive offer this winter, they could have a strong chance of signing him.