Dodgers Offseason Masterstroke: $85 Million Star Join to Replace Fan Favorite

The Los Angeles Dodgers won the World Series in 2024 but could lose one of their key pieces, Teoscar Hernández, in free agency. If that happens they could look to trade for his replacement.

The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal noted that the Dodgers are “exploring” right-handed options to replace Hernández should he leave Los Angeles for a different team. Rosenthal suggested that the Dodgers could make a move for Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki.

As negotiations with free-agent outfielder Teoscar Hernández remain at an impasse, the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers are exploring a number of intriguing right-handed hitting alternatives,” wrote Rosenthal. “The potential options, according to sources briefed on the team’s discussions, include infielder Ha-Seong Kim in free agency and Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki, Chicago White Sox center fielder Luis Robert Jr. and others in trade.”

Suzuki is one of many potential options, however, he makes the most sense. The Dodgers have become an attractive spot for Japanese stars. Suzuki would be joining fellow countrymen Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Suzuki signed a five-year, $85 million deal in 2022. However, he may now be unhappy with his role on the team. Suzuki’s agent has noted that he does not wish to be a full-time DH, according to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers.

After the trade for Kyle Tucker, The Cubs outfield will feature Tucker, Ian Happ and Pete Crow-Armstrong. Suzuki could waive his no-trade clause for the opportunity to continue playing in the outfield for the reigning World Series champions. It is unclear what the Cubs would want in return for Suzuki, but he would give the Dodgers an option beyond just 2025.

Hernández was a big part of the Dodgers championship. He was an All-Star and hit 33 home runs for the club in 2024. The Dodgers will surely need to find a replacement for the fan-favorite right-hander. Hernández has noted that he wants to be with the Dodgers, but the hold up on a contract is money, according to Rosenthal. Suzuki hit a career-high 21 home runs last season.