Teoscar Hernandez’s 2024 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers was nothing short of spectacular. After blasting 33 home runs and driving in 99 RBIs, he earned his second All-Star selection. As free agency loomed, teams lined up, hoping to capitalize on his power and experience. Yet, despite multiple offers, Hernández decided to stay. But what truly played a role in his decision? Was it the city, the team, as well as the belief that the Dodgers culture would nurture his continued enhancement, as Hernandez said?

While the 66 million-dollar deal cannot go unnoticed, during his interview with Dodgers Territory, Teoscar Hernández made it clear: “

I was not going to leave LA to another team for chasing a little bit more money.” His decision to remain with the Dodgers was not just driven by financial incentives; for instance, the Mets proposed a two-year deal. The Dodgers finished with a 98-64 record in 2024, and went on to win the World Series, defeating the Yankees in five games. Moreover, Hernández’s standout season contained a Silver Slugger Award, further cementing his role.

There is no doubt that the team has a powerful roster with Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. The Dodgers’ culture is established by respect, loyalty, and focus on details. It is echoed by Ro Lowe, who highlighted how the team cultivates “

scrappy underdogs” who buy into being part of the team. However, their financial dominance is under fire after their recent $6.5 million signing of Roki Sasaki and a $365 million deal for Mookie Betts.

Now, fans are arguing their massive payroll, often exceeding $230 million, gives them an unfair advantage on smaller-market teams. Adding fuel to the controversy, the Dodgers’ singing of Scott enhanced criticism of their offseason spending. Social media is targeting the leadership with ongoing debates related to fairness and sustainability in MLB.

How Teoscar Hernández and Sasaki can propel the Dodgers

Despite the backlash, the Dodgers have proven their capability to secure elite talent. Hernández displayed exceptional capability in the 2024 postseason. He reached base in 15 of 16 games, hitting three home runs and driving in 12 RBIs as well as drawing 10 walks. In addition, Roki Sasaki recorded an effective 1.16 ERA and 14.4 strikeouts per nine innings in 2024, solidifying his reputation as a generational talent.

However,

Hernández and Sasaki turned down larger deals from other teams, choosing the Dodgers for their enhancement focus. Hernández reportedly received interest from the Mets and Giants, with deals exceeding $70 million. In addition, Sasaki drew massive attention from the Yankees and Padres. The teams are reportedly trying to provide him with a deal worth over $10 million.

So, Hernández’s decision to choose the Dodgers was not purely financial but personal too—it was the Dodgers’ culture, their focus on player development, as well as the team’s loyalty, that attracted top players, like Roki Sasaki and Hernández. What’s your take on this? Share with us below.