It has been nearly two months since MLB free agency started, and Teoscar Hernández surprisingly remains without a team despite receiving significant interest from around the league.
The 32-year-old has seemingly been focused on working out a new contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but the sides remain at an impasse in negotiations. That has opened the door for other clubs to potentially enter the mix to sign Hernández.
The Boston Red Sox have expressed interest in the two-time All-Star as they look to improve their lineup. The team has already added one Dodgers free agent this offseason in Walker Buehler, who agreed to a one-year, $21.05 million contract.
However, it doesn’t sound like the Red Sox have ramped up their efforts to sign Hernández despite initial reports suggesting otherwise, via Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com:
Doesn't sound like the Red Sox have intensified their efforts on Teoscar Hernandez, at least to this point. List of available top bats still includes Bregman, Alonso, Santander, Profar, and others.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) December 23, 2024
As it currently stands, the Red Sox are projected to have a starting outfield of Wilyer Abreu, Jarren Duran and Ceddanne Rafaela next season. However, the latter can play all over the field, which gives the team some flexibility with their roster construction.
Hernández is said to be intrigued by the possibility of playing at Fenway Park for Red Sox manager Alex Cora, but it remains to be seen if the sides will eventually strike a deal.
The Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees are among the other teams that have shown interest in Hernández this offseason. However, the Yankees are unlikely to be involved still after adding Cody Bellinger in a trade with the Chicago Cubs.
Money is key issue in negotiations between Teoscar Hernández and Dodgers
According to multiple reports, the key issue in negotiations between Hernández and Dodgers has been money. It’s unclear what the team has offered, but an issue of deferrals could be playing a part in the delay.
Hernández is reportedly seeking a three-year contract with an annual salary in the $22-24 million range.
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