The Los Angeles Dodgers had seven players become free agents the morning after the World Series, and an eighth shortly after when the team declined their option on Jimmy Nelson.
All but Blake Treinen, Justin Turner and Nelson went on to sign with a new team. Pedro Baez was first to depart, agreeing to a two-year contract with the Houston Astros. That was followed by Kiké Hernandez signing with the Boston Red Sox, Alex Wood left for the San Francisco Giants, and Alex Wood joined the Chicago Cubs. Jake McGee has reportedly agreed to terms with the Giants as well.
Hernandez and Pederson moving on from the Dodgers had long been considered likely. Both players wish for an opportunity to play every day, and are going to get that with their respective teams. Hernandez and Pederson both shared emotional goodbyes to the Dodgers organization and fans.
That was reciprocated by Clayton Kershaw, who thanked Hernandez and Pederson, and recalled memories he enjoyed with the two.
Even while filling a utility role for the majority of his six seasons with the Dodgers, Hernandez appeared in a minimum of 100 games in four years, including three of at least 130 games. He played in 80% (48) of the Dodgers’ 60 games last season, and 17 of 18 in the playoffs.
Pederson hit .230/.336/.470 with 112 doubles, 130 home runs and 303 RBI in 748 games over parts of seven seasons with the Dodgers. He set career highs in 2019 with 83 runs, 112 hits, 36 homers, 74 RBI, .249 batting average, .538 slugging and .876 OPS in 149 games.
Pederson set the Dodgers franchise record with nine leadoff home runs in 2019, which surpassed the mark he previously held with eight the season prior. Davey Lopes had been the Dodgers’ record holder with seven leadoff home runs hit in 1979.
Buehler, Muncy and Seager excited for Turner to return with Dodgers
Turner announcing his intentions to re-sign with the Dodgers was met by celebration from teammates Walker Buehler, Max Muncy and Corey Seager.
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