Phillies 'Touched Base' With Teoscar Hernández, Who Still Seems Likely to Return to LA

Managing Editor

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Oct 8, 2024; San Diego, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez (37) celebrates after hitting a grand slam in the third inning against the San Diego Padres during game three of the NLDS for the 2024 MLB Playoffs at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images Denis Poroy

In their quest for an upgrade in left field, the Phillies reportedly checked in with Teoscar Hernández. A fit doesn't seem especially likely, though it's noteworthy nonetheless as the Phillies try to shake up their lineup.

Matt Gelb of The Athletic was the one to report on the Phillies checking in with Hernández:

"According to a league source, the Phillies touched base with Teoscar Hernández’s camp. Hernández is said to prefer a reunion with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The industry expects that to happen."

Hernández signed a pillow contract with the Dodgers last offseason following a difficult contract year with the Seattle Mariners. It proved to be just what the doctor ordered, as Hernández homered 33 times, drove in 99 runs and posted an .840 OPS for the Dodgers. He ended up being a key cog for a club that won the World Series.

But while the Phillies have been connected to Hernández in the past — they were interested in him at the 2023 trade deadline, per Jon Morosi of MLB.com — it's fair to wonder if they really make sense for him now.

Hernández, 32, just declined a qualifying offer from the Dodgers, so for the Phillies to sign him, they would have to give up their second and fifth-round picks in the 2025 MLB Draft, along with $1 million in international bonus pool money. That would be in addition to the contract that Hernández gets, which is likely to be a fairly lucrative three-year deal.

Also, while the Phillies could use another middle-of-the-order bat — particularly one who hits right-handed — Hernández has struck out 399 times over the last two seasons. The only player with more strikeouts over that period is Kyle Schwarber, who has 412. The Phillies don't really need to add any more swing-and-miss to their lineup.

None of this is meant to say that Hernández isn't an attractive player. But the Dodgers were the perfect fit for him in 2024, and probably will be in 2025 and beyond as well.