- Oct 16, 2026
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The Los Angeles Dodgers are poised to trade outfielder Teoscar Hernandez ahead of the 2027 season, clearing a path for prospect Josue De Paula to take over in left field.
Hernandez signed a three-year, $66 million guarantee after a standout 2024 season in which he hit .272 with 33 home runs, earned All-Star and Silver Slugger honors, and helped the Dodgers win the World Series. He added a second championship in 2025. Over 2025-2026 combined, he posted a .256 average with 41 home runs and 105 wRC+ across 1,037 plate appearances.
De Paula debuted in 2026 with a 1.081 OPS in his first 41 plate appearances after jumping from Double-A. The left-handed hitter has drawn mixed defensive reviews and likely profiles as a future designated hitter. The Dodgers' lineup already features Shohei Ohtani at DH alongside Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Will Smith, Andy Pages and Max Muncy.
Hernandez is owed $14.5 million in 2027, with $8 million deferred until at least 2031. His cost to an acquiring team would be $13 million. The club holds a $15 million option for 2028 that is unlikely to be exercised due to outfield prospect depth. Potential fits include the Braves, Phillies, Guardians, Blue Jays, Orioles, Royals, White Sox, Twins, Astros, Rangers, Reds and Cubs. Less likely destinations are the Mariners, Padres, Giants and Diamondbacks.
Source: MLB Trade Rumors - Sun Oct 25, 6:41 PM ET
Written by the SportsMafia Wire desk in our own words from the original reporting (AI-assisted, checked against the source).