The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a commanding victory over the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series. Looking ahead to 2025, the team is set to bolster its roster with a Cy Young-caliber pitcher as Shohei Ohtani returns to the mound.
If the Dodgers could simply retain their roster and aim for another title in 2025, they’d likely be strong favorites to repeat as World Series champions. However, achieving that won’t be as straightforward, particularly in light of the recent Teoscar Hernández developments.
Free-agent baseball reporter Francys Romero announced Wednesday that Teoscar Hernández has officially declined the $21 million qualifying offer—a move that surprises no one, as it was the anticipated outcome all along.
Hernández’s decision to decline the offer was anticipated, as he is expected to secure a multi-year deal exceeding $20 million in average annual value during free agency. While he has shown interest in rejoining the Dodgers in 2025, financial considerations will likely take precedence in these negotiations.
The star outfielder is expected to attract plenty of interest in free agency. Teams likely to pursue him include the Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Braves, Phillies, and even the Cleveland Guardians. Additionally, Terry Francona’s Cincinnati Reds might also make a push for him.
For teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Mets, and Dodgers, Hernández is a key free agent to watch. He’s considered an ideal fallback option if they fail to land Juan Soto. Since only one team can sign Soto, the remaining contenders will likely compete for other top outfielders in free agency, including Hernández.
