Teoscar Hernandez Returns to Toronto for World Series Showdown

Toronto, Canada – Teoscar Hernandez will face his former team, the Toronto Blue Jays, when the World Series opens Friday at Rogers Centre. Hernandez, who played for the Blue Jays before being traded, is now a key slugger for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Hernandez’s journey in baseball has been quite eventful. After beginning his career in the Dominican Republic, he joined the Blue Jays but was traded to the Seattle Mariners after the 2023 season. The Blue Jays deemed it better to trade him for prospects rather than risk losing him for nothing the following year.

In the trade, Toronto received reliever Erik Swanson and pitching prospect Adam Macko. Hernandez, who had one year left on his contract, was due roughly $14 million in arbitration, prompting Toronto’s decision.

After his time as a Mariner, Hernandez signed with the Dodgers for the 2024 season on a “prove it” deal. He certainly proved himself by hitting 33 home runs and driving in 99 runs. This impressive performance earned him a three-year, $66 million contract starting in 2025.

Although his numbers dipped slightly this season, Hernandez posted 29 doubles, 25 homers, and 89 RBIs in 134 games. He remains a crucial part of the Dodgers’ lineup as they prepare to contend with the Blue Jays in the World Series.

As the series kicks off, Hernandez’s familiarity with the Blue Jays adds an intriguing layer to the championship matchup. He aims to win his second World Series ring, once again in opposition to the team that helped launch his career.