The Los Angeles Dodgers could consider trading Teoscar Hernández this offseason, with top prospect Josue De Paula emerging as a possible replacement in left field. MLB insider Jim Bowden believes moving Hernández could benefit the team, especially with the Toronto Blue Jays reportedly interested in bringing him back. De Paula’s recent major league appearance and progress in the field have added another reason for the Dodgers to think about their outfield plans for 2027.




Jim Bowden explains why trading Teoscar Hernández could make sense for the DodgersSpeaking on GM Territory, former MLB general manager Jim Bowden discussed players who could be traded before the current collective bargaining agreement expires on December 1. Teoscar Hernández was among the names he mentioned, with the Dodgers potentially looking at a change in their outfield.




Hernández signed a three-year, $66 million contract with Los Angeles in January 2025. His deal runs through the 2027 season and includes a $15 million club option for 2028. He previously enjoyed a strong first season with the Dodgers in 2024, hitting 33 home runs and earning an All-Star selection.




However, his place in the team’s future could become uncertain as Josue De Paula moves closer to a regular major league role. The Dodgers had already explored the possibility of trading Hernández last offseason but decided to keep him and move him to left field to make room for Kyle Tucker.




Bowden believes the situation could be different this time. Speaking about De Paula’s development and his ability to play left field, he said:




“Their best outfield prospect, Josue De Paula, his best position besides DH, is going to be left field. And they tell me that he’s improved some. They want more improvement defensively, but they think the bat is ready to hit at the major league level.”




He then explained why moving Hernández could be a sensible decision for Los Angeles.




“So, possibly trading Hernandez makes sense. And the rumor that I keep hearing is that the Toronto Blue Jays have interest in reuniting with Teoscar Hernandez, who was a fan favorite when he was in Toronto.”




Bowden also pointed to Toronto’s need for better outfield production. The Blue Jays struggled to get enough offensive output from their outfield last season, making Hernández a possible fit. He played for Toronto from 2017 to 2022 and earned his first All-Star selection with the team in 2021.




“I think it fits because you look at the Blue Jays outfield. It was one of the worst outfields offensively in Major League Baseball last year. So, I do think Dodgers and Blue Jays do match up in the Teoscar Hernandez potential swap.”




Josue De Paula’s progress could decide Teoscar Hernández’s Dodgers futureDe Paula has already given the Dodgers a reason to take his potential seriously. After starting the 2026 season with Double-A Tulsa, the 21-year-old received his first major league call-up in September. He collected 10 hits in 31 at-bats, drew 11 walks, struck out five times and recorded one home run and seven RBIs across 42 plate appearances.




He also remained on the Dodgers’ postseason roster, making three pinch-hit appearances and drawing two walks.




The team’s leadership has also made it clear that his defence needs more work. At the end-of-season press conference, general manager Brandon Gomes pointed to becoming an above-average defender as an important target for De Paula.




Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman also praised the youngster’s first experience with the major league group. He said the time spent around experienced players helped him understand how professionals prepare for games.




Friedman added, “Now we’re looking for real growth from ’26 to ‘27. And then the sky’s the limit.”




For now, a Hernández trade remains a possibility rather than a confirmed move. Neither the Dodgers nor the Blue Jays has announced any trade discussions, and De Paula’s defensive progress could play a major role in what Los Angeles decides this winter.