The Los Angeles Dodgers want to re-sign All-Star outfielder Teoscar Hernández this offseason, but are unable to find common ground right now.
If the two-time All-Star outfielder ends up inking a contract with another team, Los Angeles must explore alternative options. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reports the Dodgers are interested in two potential trade targets from Chicago teams who could fill the void of an absent Hernández.
From the Chicago Cubs, right fielder Seiya Suzuki is coming off a second strong season at the plate. The Japanese-born outfielder ranked in the top 10 of the National League in batting average (.283), slugging percentage (.482), OPS (.848), and triples (six).
The Cubs recently acquired right fielder Kyle Tucker in a trade with the Houston Astros. The new addition may limit Suzuki’s time in the outfield next season. Instead, Suzuki will likely serve as Chicago’s designated hitter.
“While Suzuki hit slightly better as a DH than as an outfielder in a similar number of plate appearances last season, the Cubs acknowledge he might not want to serve in that role full-time,” Rosenthal wrote. “The mere possibility, according to a source briefed on Suzuki’s thinking, makes him more inclined to approve a trade.”
As of now, the Dodgers have an open spot in the outfield, making Suzuki a feasible trade target for Los Angeles.
The second potential trade target is Chicago White Sox center fielder Luis Robert Jr. He was sidelined with a hip flexor injury for two months in the first half of the season, and struggled to bat to his full potential when he returned, logging the worst slash line of his MLB career.
However, Robert Jr. showcased his talent at the plate in 2023. He was named an American League All-Star and Silver Slugger after hitting a career-high 38 home runs and 80 RBIs.
The White Sox reportedly have low expectations for what they would receive in exchange for Robert Jr. But, according to Rosenthal, Chicago wants a “meaningful piece” for the Gold Glove outfielder. After Hernández and fellow free agent outfielder Anthony Santander sign contracts, Robert Jr.’s market may rise.
