The Los Angeles Dodgers have re-signed outfielder Teoscar Hernández, a key figure in their 2024 postseason success, on a three-year contract worth $66 million. The deal, reported by ESPN, includes a fourth-year option valued at $15 million, along with $23 million in deferred payments and a $23 million signing bonus. This signing marks another significant move in the Dodgers’ efforts to maintain their championship-level roster for the 2025 season.

The Dodgers’ offseason has been less splashy compared to last year’s acquisitions of Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, but the team has strategically reinforced its lineup. Earlier this offseason, they signed Blake Snell to a lucrative five-year contract and added outfielder Michael Conforto to their roster. Now, bringing back Hernández ensures continuity and further strengthens their batting order.

Hernández, who is 32 years old, is coming off an impressive 2024 season where he hit 33 home runs and earned a Silver Slugger award. His postseason performance was equally notable, batting .350 with a .931 OPS during the World Series, helping the Dodgers defeat the New York Yankees in five games. His clutch hitting and consistent power make him a vital part of the Dodgers’ offense.

While the use of deferred money in the contract may draw criticism from some fans, the decision aligns with the Dodgers’ financial strategy and allows them to retain a proven performer without overly burdening their payroll. Hernández is expected to thrive alongside the Dodgers’ superstar lineup, which features Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman.

With Hernández hitting behind this trio of future Hall of Famers, the Dodgers’ lineup remains one of the most formidable in Major League Baseball. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and contribute both power and consistency at the plate should enable him to meet expectations over the course of the contract.

By retaining Hernández and making other calculated offseason moves, the Dodgers have solidified their roster as they aim for another deep playoff run and a shot at repeating their championship success in 2025.