The Los Angeles Dodgers and outfielder Teoscar Hernández have not discussed a contract extension during the current season, according to Hernández. He remains undaunted and focused on his performance as he recorded a career-high 33 home runs this year. After struggling in 2023, he has found his groove again and is returning to competitive form that bodes well for his upcoming free agency. Hernández is expected to receive significant offers this offseason, especially after turning down a $28 million offer from the Red Sox last year. The Dodgers could still choose to extend a qualifying offer, paving the way for potential postseason contract negotiations.

By the numbers

• Hernández hit a career-high 33 home runs in 2024.
• He has a batting line of .272/.339/.501 this season.
• He previously signed a contract worth $23.5 million, of which $15 million was paid this year.

State of affairs

• Dodgers have not entered extension talks for Hernández this season.
• Hernández is making a strong recovery after a disappointing 2023.
• The team dynamic could change based on Shohei Ohtani’s presence in the outfield.

What’s next

Hernández is expected to move into free agency, positioned for a better contract than last year, likely looking for a multi-year deal. The Dodgers will have to evaluate their outfield lineup and determine how Hernández fits long-term. A qualifying offer could be a strategic move to keep options open for negotiations.

In short

The Dodgers are at a crossroads with Teoscar Hernández; Keeping him means balancing contract value against long-term roster needs. His successful season makes it likely that they will make an effort to keep him, but financial and positional considerations could complicate those talks.