The Detroit Tigers captured the hearts of underdog fans everywhere with their impressive run to, and in, the 2024 American League playoffs. Although they ultimately fell to the Cleveland Guardians in the Division Series, the Tigers stunned many by defeating the defending AL champion Houston Astros in the Wild Card round.
Detroit has long been linked to Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman, but Brandon Wile now suggests the team may take a different direction, focusing on signing outfielder Teoscar Hernandez from the Los Angeles Dodgers. Hernandez’s stock soared after a stellar 2024 season with the World Series champions, making him one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason.
After a one-year, $23.5 million contract with the Dodgers, the nine-year MLB veteran is now on the open market. Hernandez posted a solid .272 batting average, 33 home runs, and 99 RBI with Los Angeles, further enhancing his already impressive career numbers. The two-time Silver Slugger winner also contributed three home runs and 12 RBI in 16 postseason games, helping the Dodgers secure their first full-season World Series title since 1988.
Spotrac estimates Hernandez’s market value at over $71 million for a three-year deal, but a competitive bidding war could drive the price even higher for the 32-year-old. Hernandez’s success isn’t a fluke; he previously spent six seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, hitting 129 home runs with 369 RBI and a .263 batting average. After being traded to the Seattle Mariners following the 2022 season, he had another solid year before joining the Dodgers on a one-year deal in 2023.
The Tigers, a youthful team in need of solid hitters and veteran leadership, have the financial flexibility to pursue a player like Hernandez, especially as they look to lock up their ace, American League Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. In a market where offensive power and experienced leadership are in high demand, signing Hernandez could be a smart move to strengthen Detroit’s lineup and further their playoff ambitions.