Dodgers Downplay Teoscar Hernández Trade Rumors, Assess Bullpen Options
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Los Angeles Dodgers have been relatively quiet in the offseason market so far, which has led to speculation about potential moves, including the possible trade of right fielder Teoscar Hernández. However, according to manager Dave Roberts and general manager Brandon Gomes, Hernández is still a valued member of the team.
Despite reports suggesting that the Dodgers are “shopping” Hernández, who is entering the second season of his three-year, $66-million deal, both Roberts and Gomes downplayed the notion. “Teo certainly fits [our roster still],” Roberts said. “He’s helped us win two championships. He’s one of my favorites.” Gomes added, “That doesn’t feel likely… Obviously, you can never say never on those types of things. I know that’s come up [in reports]. But that’s not something we anticipate at all.”
Hernández’s Value to the Team
Hernández has been an integral part of the Dodgers’ success, particularly in their World Series runs over the last couple of years. The 10-year veteran has made crucial contributions on the field and has also served as a mentor to younger players, including Andy Pages. While he had an inconsistent and injury-plagued regular season in 2025, hernández’s career-long defensive metrics have been stronger in right field than left.
Dodgers right fielder Teoscar Hernández hits a sacrifice fly to score Dodgers’ Will Smith during the Game 7 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays on Nov. 1.
(Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)
Outfield and Bullpen Options
The Dodgers are still evaluating their options for outfield help, including free agents like Cody Bellinger or Harrison Bader, and trade possibilities such as Brendan Donovan or Lars Nootbaar of the St. Louis Cardinals. Roberts also left the door open to potentially moving Hernández back to left field, where he spent the majority of 2024 for the Dodgers before shifting over to his more natural right field position last year.
For now, the Dodgers continue to express confidence in their current core, with Roberts noting that “we’re very confident with where the roster is right now” and that “there’s really no big splash we feel needs to be made.” Read more about the Dodgers’ offseason moves and assessments Here
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