Dodgers Secure Teoscar Hernandez and Hyeseong Kim in Key Signings
The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially re-signed All-Star outfielder Teoscar Hernandez following his stellar debut season with the team. Hernandez agreed to a three-year, $66 million contract, as announced on Friday. The deal includes a club option of $15 million for 2028, with a $6.5 million buyout, $23.5 million in deferred money, and a $23 million signing bonus, according to ESPN.
During a press conference, Hernandez expressed his admiration for the Dodgers’ culture. “The Dodgers, they’re different,” he said. “They think about everybody, not only the player and what I can do on the field. They give me confidence.”
Hernandez joined the Dodgers as a free agent in January 2024 on a one-year deal worth $23.5 million, prioritizing Los Angeles despite higher offers from other teams. His gamble paid off as he became an essential part of the Dodgers’ success, hitting .272 with a career-high 33 home runs and 99 RBIs in 154 games during the regular season. His contributions extended into the playoffs, where he played in 16 games, batted .250, and consistently reached base.
A two-time All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger winner, Hernandez also captured the 2024 Home Run Derby title. Across his MLB career, which spans stints with the Houston Astros, Toronto Blue Jays, Seattle Mariners, and Dodgers, Hernandez has posted a .263 batting average, 192 home runs, and 572 RBIs over 965 games.
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes confirmed Hernandez will be the starting right fielder for the upcoming season, with Mookie Betts transitioning to shortstop.
In addition to Hernandez, the Dodgers announced a three-year, $12.5 million contract with Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim. The deal, finalized just before the 5 p.m. ET deadline on Friday, includes a two-year team option for 2028-29 that could bring Kim an additional $9.5 million.
Kim, who will turn 26 in January, leaves an impressive legacy in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO), where he played eight seasons with the Kiwoom Heroes. Known for his elite defensive skills across multiple infield positions, Kim also excelled offensively, posting a .326 batting average with 11 home runs, 75 RBIs, and 30 stolen bases in his final KBO season. Over his career in South Korea, Kim maintained a .304/.364/.403 slash line.
The Dodgers’ double acquisition highlights their commitment to bolstering both their lineup and defensive depth as they aim for another championship run.
