Here’s a bold statement: despite the buzz surrounding Teoscar Hernández’s future with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team’s general manager, Brandon Gomes, has made it clear that trading the outfielder ‘doesn’t feel likely.’ But here’s where it gets controversial—while Hernández’s defensive struggles have sparked debates, his offensive consistency and the scarcity of right-handed hitting options in the league make him a valuable asset. So, why is his name even being floated in trade discussions? Let’s dive in.
The Dodgers, fresh off back-to-back World Series championships, have reportedly gauged trade interest in Hernández, according to The Athletic. However, Gomes, speaking at the Signia by Hilton during the Winter Meetings, downplayed the likelihood of a trade. ‘Obviously, you can never say never,’ he acknowledged, ‘but Teo is not someone we anticipate moving.’ This stance isn’t just about loyalty—it’s rooted in pragmatism. With a lack of quality right-handed outfielders available, as highlighted by Mike Petriello at MLB.com, Hernández’s bat remains a rare commodity.
And this is the part most people miss—while Hernández’s 2025 season saw a career-low 103 OPS+, his offensive contributions during the Dodgers’ title runs have been undeniable. Over the past two championship seasons, he posted a .780 OPS with eight home runs, providing crucial depth behind stars like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith. Manager Dave Roberts even hinted at a potential shift to left field, where Hernández’s defensive limitations could be less exposed. ‘Teo certainly fits,’ Roberts said. ‘He’s one of my favorites.’
However, Hernández’s defensive metrics tell a different story. According to Baseball Savant, he registered -9 Outs Above Average in 2025, ranking 33rd out of 36 players at his position. His struggles with balls hit toward the lines have turned routine plays into costly mistakes. A notable example? A shallow fly ball he misplayed in a walk-off loss to the Colorado Rockies in August. Yet, Roberts defended Hernández, noting that his right field defense improved after that game. ‘From my eye test, he was at least average,’ Roberts said.
Here’s the controversial question: Should the Dodgers prioritize defensive upgrades, like moving Andy Pages into an outfield corner, or hold onto Hernández’s proven bat? While the team is already seeking to add an outfielder, trading Hernández would double that need. Plus, with Tommy Edman recovering from ankle surgery, the Dodgers’ outfield depth is already thin. The temptation to get younger and more defensively sound is real, but Hernández’s offensive value—and the lack of comparable options—makes a trade unlikely.
So, what do you think? Is Hernández’s bat worth keeping despite his defensive flaws, or should the Dodgers explore a trade to address their outfield needs? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
