Teoscar Hernández had a remarkable 2024 season, lighting up the stat sheet with a .501 OPS, 135 OPS+, 33 homers, and 99 RBIs. He took home the Home Run Derby championship, earned an All-Star nod, snagged a Silver Slugger, and even garnered MVP votes. Re-signing him for 2025 seemed like a slam dunk for the Dodgers.
However, the first year of his new contract didn't go as planned. Hernández struggled offensively, posting his lowest OPS since 2019.
When his bat cooled off, his defensive shortcomings became more pronounced, leading some fans to question his role in the Dodgers' World Series aspirations. A brief stint on the IL with a groin strain didn't help, and he ended the season with a career-low OPS of .738.
In spring training, Hernández opened up about his struggles, admitting that the groin strain never quite felt right throughout 2025. Determined to turn things around, he spent the offseason focusing on his health-cleaning up his diet, shedding 10 pounds, and prioritizing rest.
The offseason also brought trade rumors, with the Royals mentioned as potential suitors. Hernández handled the situation professionally, acknowledging the business side of baseball.
"Obviously, I don't want to go. But if they feel they can be a better team, they're going to do it," he stated.
Despite the whispers, he remained with the Dodgers, though the rumors were a clear signal of the team's concerns.
With Kyle Tucker joining the lineup, Hernández will move down in the batting order and shift to left field. These changes should relieve some pressure and allow him to focus on regaining his form.
While there's uncertainty about whether Hernández can bounce back as effectively as Mookie Betts, fans are hopeful for a resurgence from Teo.