The Boston Red Sox were linked to Teoscar Hernández this offseason, but the All-Star outfielder’s insight on his free agency revealed his intentions.
Hernández re-signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers on a three-year, $66 million deal. The three-time Silver Slugger held a news conference to make the signing official where he revealed how much he wanted to return to the World Series champions. His desire to return to LA was so strong that he turned down $5-6 million more from other teams, per The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya.
“I had my mind clear that I wanted to come back,” Hernández told reporters, per Doug McKain of Dodger Nation. “I was going to do anything in my power to make it work and be back with the Dodgers. Money wasn’t an issue.”
It’s unknown where the Red Sox were in negotiations with Hernández, but even if they had offered more, it’s clear the 32-year-old would have turned it down.
Hernández would have been an ideal fit given his track record at Fenway Park and his mutual interest in playing for Boston. However, the chance to repeat and not have to move teams for a third consecutive season likely enticed the veteran.
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The Red Sox still have options when it comes to right-handed bats with Alex Bregman at the top of the list.
Featured image via Kiyoshi Mio/Imagn Images
