With Mookie Betts moving back to shortstop next year, the Los Angeles Dodgers have been in the market for outfield help this offseason.
The team’s only move to this point has been signing Michael Conforto to a one-year, $17 million contract. The deal gave L.A. the left-handed hitting corner bat they were looking for.
The Dodgers also remain in the mix to re-sign Teoscar Hernández, but they are seemingly at a stalemate in negotiations. A recent report suggested the hold-up was partily due to the 32-year-old not wanting any salary deferred in his next contract.
If Hernández signs elsewhere or continues to hold out for longer than they’re comfortable with, the Dodgers will have to pivot to another outfielder. According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, they are among the teams interested in Anthony Santander:
Santander, who ranked third in the Majors with 44 home runs last season, is believed to be looking for a five-year deal, likely in the $100 million range. The Yankees, Red Sox and Blue Jays – who all missed out on Soto when he signed with the Mets – are interested in Santander. Other teams to watch include the Dodgers, Tigers and Nationals.
Santander is coming off a solid season for the Baltimore Orioles that saw him hit .235/.308/.506 with 25 doubles, two triples, a career-high 44 home runs and 102 RBI in 665 plate appearances (155 games).
The switch-hitter earned his first All-Star selection, won the Silver Slugger Award for outfielders and finished 14th in American League MVP voting.
However, there are some obstacles that could impede the Dodgers potentially signing Santander. He is looking for a significantly larger contract than Hernández and he is also considered a liability on defense.
In addition, the Orioles extended the qualifying offer to Santander, which means any team that signs him would have to give up draft compensation. Of course, the Dodgers would recoup draft pick compensation if Hernández were to then sign with another club.
Dodgers focused on ‘needle-movers’
Along with Conforto, the Dodgers have added Blake Snell on a five-year contract while also re-signing Blake Treinen this offseason.
General manager Brandon Gomes said that the Dodgers are focused on adding players who will make a difference on the 2025 roster and beyond.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
