Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández finds himself at the center of fresh trade rumors as the team looks to balance its roster. According to Dodgers insider Doug McKain on the Dodgers Nation podcast, the primary catalyst for a potential move is the emergence of top prospect Josue De Paula. With Shohei Ohtani firmly established as the designated hitter, the outfield represents the only realistic path for De Paula to secure a consistent starting role.
De Paula made a strong impression during his brief stint in the major leagues this past season. After skipping the Triple-A level, the 21-year-old debuted on Sept. 11 and posted a.323/.500/.581 slash line across 42 plate appearances. Although he was optioned on Sept. 23, he returned to the roster for the NLDS. Following the team’s elimination in the NLCS by the Milwaukee Brewers, De Paula expressed his commitment to training and improvement, while his agent, Scott Boras, confirmed that the offseason focus involves adapting him to an outfield position. The Dodgers’ president of baseball operations has also noted the prospect’s marked defensive growth over the past year. 23 and brought him back for the NLDS.
Despite the speculation, Hernández remained a reliable contributor during the 2026 campaign. The 34-year-old outfielder finished with a.267/.334/.425 batting line, including 16 home runs across 125 games, and maintained a.907 OPS against left-handed pitching. He is currently entering the final guaranteed year of a three-year, $66 million contract, which includes a $15 million club option for 2028 accompanied by a $6.5 million buyout.
Several teams have been linked to a potential pursuit of the veteran, most notably the Toronto Blue Jays. After a disappointing 79-83 finish that left them in last place in the American League East, the Blue Jays are looking to rebuild an outfield unit that recently saw Daulton Varsho traded to the Houston Astros. Former general manager Jim Bowden mentioned on his GM Territory podcast that Toronto is rumored to be interested in a reunion with Hernández, a former fan favorite who spent six seasons with the club and earned an All-Star selection there in 2021 before being traded to Seattle in 2022. FanSided’s Pat Ragazzo also reported Toronto’s interest following their failure to acquire Kyle Tucker.
While no formal offers have been confirmed, other organizations including the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, and Seattle Mariners are considered potential landing spots. Furthermore, Dodgers Nation identified the Cincinnati Reds, Boston Red Sox, and Kansas City Royals as teams that could fit his profile.
