Dodgers Plan to Keep Teoscar Hernández, Move Him to Left Field
LOS ANGELES, January 23, 2026 – The Los Angeles Dodgers are moving forward with veteran outfielder Teoscar Hernández as a key piece of their lineup for the upcoming season, with a planned position change to left field. This decision comes after the team’s blockbuster signing of All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker.
Position Shift Follows Tucker Signing
According to multiple reports, including Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Dodgers intend to retain Hernández and shift him from right field to left field. This move is a direct result of the team’s acquisition of Tucker, a four-time All-Star and Gold Glove-caliber right fielder. Manager Dave Roberts and President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman confirmed the plan during Tucker’s introductory press conference this week.
“Teo will move to left. He’s excited by it, he’s excited that Kyle is joining up with us,” Friedman stated, echoing Roberts’s comments. Hernández, who played 120 games in left field during the 2024 season, is reportedly on board with the switch.
2025 Season in Review
The 2025 campaign was a demanding one for the 33-year-old slugger. After re-signing with the Dodgers on a three-year, $66 million contract last winter, Hernández posted a .247/.284/.454 slash line with 25 home runs and 89 runs batted in across 134 games. He recorded a 102 wRC+ (weighted runs created plus), indicating his offensive production was just 2% above league average.
Defensively, Hernández struggled, finishing with -9 Outs Above Average (OAA), which placed him in the third percentile of all defenders. Despite these challenges, he contributed to the Dodgers’ second consecutive World Series championship, hitting .257 with five home runs and 13 RBI in the postseason.
Key Facts & Contract Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 2025 Regular Season Stats | .247 AVG, 25 HR, 89 RBI, .738 OPS, 5 SB |
| 2025 Postseason Stats | .257 AVG, 5 HR, 13 RBI, .789 OPS |
| Current Contract | 3 years, $66 million (signed Jan. 2025) |
| Remaining Salary | $12M (2026), $14.5M (2027), $6.5M buyout on $15M club option (2028) |
| Projected 2026 Role | Starting Left Fielder, batting in the middle of the order |
| Defensive Rationale | Move to left field to mitigate defensive range and arm limitations; Tucker provides superior defense in right. |
Trade Rumors Subside
Hernández’s name had surfaced in trade speculation earlier this winter, with reports connecting him to teams like the Kansas City Royals. However, both Roberts and General Manager Brandon Gomes downplayed the likelihood of a trade in December. Rosenthal’s initial reporting also framed a deal as “unlikely” just one year after the club’s significant financial commitment.
With the Tucker signing now official, the Dodgers’ outfield for 2026 is taking shape. Hernández is expected to slide to left field, with Tucker taking his customary spot in right. Andy Pages and Tommy Edman are projected as the primary center-field options, with Alex Call filling a reserve role.
Organizational Philosophy
This outcome reflects the Dodgers’ organizational philosophy of valuing roster depth and flexibility as much as star power. By keeping Hernández, the team avoids leaning too heavily on untested depth as they chase a historic third consecutive World Series title. The decision also sidesteps the risk that Hernández’s trade market was thinner than expected following a mixed 2025 season.
The Dodgers are now expected to explore trades for other players, such as right-hander Bobby Miller or Triple-A standout Ryan Ward, to clear roster space and acquire minor league depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Dodgers keeping Teoscar Hernández?
The Dodgers value his proven power bat and veteran presence in the middle of their lineup. Despite his defensive struggles, his offensive floor and potential for a bounce-back season are seen as more valuable than the uncertain return from a trade, especially as they pursue a third straight championship.
What does this mean for the Dodgers’ outfield?
The plan is for Hernández to start in left field, with newly signed Kyle Tucker in right field. Andy Pages and Tommy Edman are projected as the primary center-field options. This alignment provides the team with a powerful offensive trio while attempting to hide Hernández’s defensive limitations in the less demanding left field.
What were Hernández’s main struggles in 2025?
His primary issues were a lack of consistency at the plate, resulting in a career-low 4.8% walk rate, and significant defensive struggles in right field, where he ranked in the bottom third percentile with -9 Outs Above Average (OAA).
What is the financial commitment to Hernández?
Excluding deferred salary, Hernández has two years and over $46 million remaining on his contract. His deal includes a $23 million signing bonus, $23.5 million in deferred salary, and a $15 million team option for 2028 with a $6.5 million buyout. The Dodgers will also owe him $2.35 million annually from 2030-2039.