In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through Major League Baseball, Teoscar Hernández has declined the Los Angeles Dodgers’ $21.05 million qualifying offer, setting the stage for what could be one of the most explosive free agency periods in recent memory.
The 32-year-old slugger’s decision comes at a crucial moment as both the Dodgers and New York Yankees intensify their pursuit of superstar Juan Soto, with potential deals reaching an unprecedented $600-700 million range.
“My hopes are really high,” Hernández stated earlier this month. “The Dodgers are the priority, obviously. I’m going to do everything in my power to come back.” Despite these words, his rejection of the qualifying offer has sparked intense speculation about his future.
Hernández’s 2024 season showcased his exceptional talents. He delivered outstanding numbers while batting. 272 with an impressive. 840 OPS.
Achievements Include:
- Career-high 33 home runs
- All-Star selection
- Silver Slugger Award
- Second-team All-MLB outfielder
- Home Run Derby champion
The timing of Hernández’s decision has raised eyebrows, as it coincides with the Dodgers’ reported meeting with Juan Soto. The competition for Soto’s signature is heating up, with multiple teams joining the fray:
- New York Mets
- New York Yankees
- Boston Red Sox
- Toronto Blue Jays
- San Francisco Giants
- Philadelphia Phillies
- Tampa Bay Rays
The Mets have reportedly upped the stakes by putting forward a stunning $660 million offer for Soto. However, Cincinnati Reds Hall of Famer Sean Casey believes the Yankees might have an edge. “I think if the Yankees got to 600 (million) and the number was 650 (million), I think he’d go to the Yankees,” Casey stated on his podcast.
Fan reaction to Hernández’s decision has been mixed. Some supporters believe the initial offer was inadequate, with one fan declaring, “21 mil? This man literally helped get us to the World Series—pay him more!” Others see it as an opportunity for the Dodgers to pursue Soto more aggressively, with calls to “offer Soto $600 million for 12 years.”
Should both the Dodgers and Yankees miss out on Soto, Casey suggests alternative options: “You’ve got Teoscar Hernandez sitting there, and you’ve got (Willy) Adames, who’s hit 30 home runs and drove in a hundred runs. Unbelievable clubhouse guy. Plays excellent defense.”
This situation doesn’t leave the Dodgers empty-handed. If Hernández signs with another team, they will receive a compensation pick in the 2025 MLB Draft. This provides some cushioning as they navigate the complex waters of free agency.
The coming weeks promise intense negotiations and potentially record-breaking deals. With Hernández now available and Soto commanding unprecedented attention, the baseball world watches as these powerhouse teams vie for game-changing talent that could reshape their futures.
As one chapter closes with Hernández’s qualifying offer decision, another opens in what promises to be a transformative offseason for Major League Baseball. When everything is said and done, the baseball landscape could drastically change for the 2025 season.