### The Dodgers Extend a Qualifying Offer to Teoscar Hernández, But Not to Walker Buehler
As Major League Baseball’s offseason gets underway, one of the most anticipated decisions for teams revolves around extending qualifying offers to their free agents. The Los Angeles Dodgers, known for their savvy front office moves and deep talent pool, recently made a significant call by extending a qualifying offer to outfielder **Teoscar Hernández**, while opting not to extend one to right-handed pitcher **Walker Buehler**. These decisions have sparked conversations across the league, signaling the direction the Dodgers are taking as they plan for the 2024 season.
### Teoscar Hernández: A Logical Choice for the Qualifying Offer
Teoscar Hernández, who was acquired by the Dodgers at the trade deadline in 2023, has been a dynamic bat in their lineup. The outfielder, who previously starred with the Toronto Blue Jays, brought much-needed power and run production to the Dodgers’ outfield. In his time with Los Angeles, Hernández posted solid offensive numbers, batting .251 with 18 home runs and 53 RBIs in 110 games, showcasing the pop that he’s become known for throughout his career.
The Dodgers’ decision to extend a qualifying offer to Hernández, valued at approximately $20.6 million, is a no-brainer in many ways. He brings a potent combination of power and the ability to drive in runs, making him an asset for a team that has often relied on offensive depth to win games. His ability to play both corner outfield spots adds value in terms of flexibility, providing the Dodgers with options as they plan their 2024 roster.
Hernández’s market value as a free agent is likely to be high given the scarcity of impact bats in the market this offseason. A one-year deal at the qualifying offer amount offers him a chance to reestablish his value for a bigger payday in the future. If Hernández accepts the offer, it would be a significant win for the Dodgers, as they would retain a power-hitting outfielder for another season. If he declines and signs elsewhere, the Dodgers would receive a compensatory draft pick, which helps fortify their already impressive farm system.
Hernández’s potential to fit into the Dodgers’ postseason plans is also a factor in this decision. With his experience in high-leverage moments and his established track record of success in the American League East, the Dodgers are banking on his ability to contribute when it matters most. While his defensive metrics have been somewhat inconsistent, his offensive upside likely outweighs the risks in a lineup that already boasts elite defensive players elsewhere.
### The Decision Not to Extend a Qualifying Offer to Walker Buehler
On the other side of the equation, the Dodgers’ decision not to extend a qualifying offer to **Walker Buehler** was a more surprising move. The right-handed pitcher, once viewed as the ace of the Dodgers’ pitching staff, has been sidelined for much of the past two seasons due to Tommy John surgery. Buehler last pitched in 2022, where he showed flashes of his previous dominance before his injury derailed his 2023 campaign.
While Buehler’s potential is undeniable, the Dodgers’ decision not to offer him the qualifying offer signals a calculated risk. Returning from Tommy John surgery is notoriously challenging, and the Dodgers’ front office likely has concerns about the 29-year-old’s readiness for the upcoming season. The uncertainty surrounding Buehler’s health and performance, combined with the fact that he hasn’t pitched in nearly two years, makes a long-term commitment risky.
Offering Buehler a one-year qualifying offer could have been viewed as a gamble, considering that it would have tied up a significant amount of payroll on a pitcher with so many unknowns. Given Buehler’s injury history, the Dodgers may prefer to wait until he proves his health and effectiveness before offering him a substantial deal. Buehler’s long-term future with the team is still up in the air, but a more conservative approach seems prudent.
Moreover, Buehler’s market value has likely been impacted by his injuries. Other teams might be hesitant to meet his previous asking price, and while Buehler has the potential to return to form and be a frontline starter again, the Dodgers likely felt it was better to avoid committing to a substantial financial offer under the current circumstances. Without the qualifying offer, Buehler will have to explore his options on the open market, likely on a more team-friendly deal or even a short-term contract to prove his worth.
### Dodgers’ Strategic Outlook
The decision to extend a qualifying offer to Teoscar Hernández, but not to Walker Buehler, highlights the Dodgers’ calculated approach to building a championship-contending roster. The Dodgers have historically been reluctant to overcommit to players coming off significant injuries, and Buehler’s situation fits that mold. Meanwhile, Hernández, who is healthy and still in the prime of his career, represents a more stable investment, especially for a team with playoff aspirations.
While some fans might be disappointed by the non-offer to Buehler, the Dodgers’ focus is likely on maximizing their current championship window. With a core that includes Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles cannot afford to take significant risks on players who may not be ready for a full season of high-leverage innings. By declining to extend the qualifying offer to Buehler, they preserve flexibility to address their pitching needs through other avenues, such as free agency or trade.
### What’s Next for Both Players?
For Teoscar Hernández, the qualifying offer presents an opportunity to stay with the Dodgers for another season, solidifying his role as a key contributor to their lineup. However, it’s also likely that he’ll test the market in search of a more lucrative, multi-year contract, especially with his age and potential still in his favor.
For Walker Buehler, the offseason will be a time to prove that he is healthy and capable of returning to his previous form as a frontline starter. He’ll likely face a more challenging free-agent market, but with his track record and potential upside, it’s not out of the question that a team will offer him a short-term, prove-it deal.
Ultimately, the Dodgers’ moves are in line with their strategic vision to maintain flexibility, balance their roster, and keep their window for a championship wide open.
