Teoscar Hernández will play in right field for the Los Angeles Dodgers next season as the team works to defend their World Series title.
Hernández was at Dodger Stadium on Friday after agreeing to return to the team on a $66 million, three-year contract.
“I had my mind clear that I wanted to come back and I was going to do anything in my power to make it work and be back with the Dodgers,” Hernández said.
He played last season under a $23.5 million, one-year deal and proved his worth by becoming an All-Star, winning the Home Run Derby, and earning his third career Silver Slugger award, which earned him a $1 million bonus. He helped the Dodgers win the World Series by beating the New York Yankees.
Hernández said he had offers from other teams that would have given him an extra $5 million to $6 million.
“For me, money wasn’t an issue,” he said.
He called the Dodgers “different” from other teams.
“They give me the confidence. I didn’t get that really in other places,” Hernández said. “They trust me in everything that I can give them. That was one of the biggest things for me, that pushed me to do the best job that I can do in a Dodgers uniform.”
Manager Dave Roberts welcomed Hernández’s return.
“It’s not just about getting the most talented players. You’ve got to be good on the field and you’ve got to play the game a certain way,” he said. “What that does is it makes people around you better, it holds teammates accountable. For us, Teo checked every single box.”
Hernández hit a career-high 33 home runs and drove in 99 runs last season. The 32-year-old hit .272 in 154 games.
“He always put the team first and you could see that there was a real love of the game that he brought to the field each and every day,” said general manager Brandon Gomes.
“I do think because of the way he plays with such passion and joy, when those big moments came up, it was something that he really cherished and was able to put the team first and slow the heartbeat down and do whatever was needed in that situation.”
Hernández will play right field, with Mookie Betts moving back to shortstop. Newcomer Michael Conforto will play in left.
Hernández appreciated the support from Dodgers fans and made sure to notice it.
“I appreciate since the first day that I got here Dodgers fans were cheering for me,” he said. “They were giving me the support that I need to have the season that I have last year. When you have that support as a player, you have to give 110 percent every day.”