ESPN: Los Angeles Dodgers seals deal ahead of five teams including San Francisco Giants for experienced Japanese Pitcher in $80 million acquisition…..

Baseball insiders pass the time as the Los Angeles Dodgers and outfielder Teoscar Hernández continue contract negotiations by concocting fresh scenarios in which the All-Star could play for other clubs.

The Cincinnati Reds have agreed to a three-year, $66 million contract with Hernández, according to a recent Bleacher Report editorial by Kerry Miller.

“Is re-signing Teoscar Hernández out of the question for the Dodgers after they inked Michael Conforto to a $17 million, one-year deal?” With Conforto, Edman, Pages, Outman, and Chris in the outfield, and Mookie Betts on days Miguel Rojas starts at shortstop, they should have plenty of alternatives, according to Miller’s writing. “Top prospect Dalton Rushing might also be in the mix, so they’re likely all set on corner outfielders.”

Now is the moment to win and make it to the playoffs for the Reds as they prepare for their debut season under the tutelage of veteran manager Terry Francona.

In the wake of their deal for Brady Singer, the Reds allegedly looked into other top free agents and trade possibilities. They could be well-positioned for the upcoming season if Hernández is added as a regular outfielder. When you add in Elly De La Cruz at shortstop, the Reds suddenly become heavy favorites to win the NL Central heading into the season.

Even after signing Conforto, Hernández is still one of the Dodgers’ primary trade targets. According to Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation, three of the six teams involved in the sweepstakes—the Dodgers, the Blue Jays, and the Red Sox—have formally extended bids.

Andrew Friedman, MLB’s president of baseball operations, discussed the talks at last week’s Major League Baseball Winter Meetings in Dallas. “Although we have high hopes, we will simply wish him well and be personally pleased for him, regardless of where he signs. On a professional level, though, our feelings will be more mixed,” Friedman stated.

His year was excellent. He has set himself up for success, and I’m aware that he has expressed interest in resigning; I’m also aware that we have discussed this; now he and his family may consider all of their options and make the best decision for them.

The Dodgers would prefer it if Hernández stayed, but they can understand if he decides to depart. He is well-deserving of every penny he receives following his spectacular 2024 season.