Former Blue Jays fan favorite snuffs out hope of a reunion after World Series win

It may have been great to see the Los Angeles Dodgers dispatch the Toronto Blue Jays' long-time division rivals, the New York Yankees, in the 2024 World Series. However, it may not be so great after all if you are a diehard Jays fan looking for a potential reunion with a former fan favorite.

In an interview with ESPN Deportes following the World Series game clincher on Wednesday, star free agent outfielder Teoscar Hernández was asked about the possibility of him returning to the Dodgers this offseason. Hernández responded by stating that the Dodgers are his priority in free agency and that he will try to do whatever possible to make his return come to fruition. More noteworthy was the fact he explained that if he had any control over it, he would pick them [Dodgers].

From the big picture, it sure makes total sense for Hernández. After all, he just won the World Series for the first time in his career in his first season with the Dodgers after failed attempts with the Jays previously.

There’s no doubt that he would like to have that opportunity to continue that success once again with the team that he believes could make that happen. But in the case of the Jays, it could leave many of their faithful heartbroken. Not only was Hernández beloved by Toronto as a whole, but many were also looking forward to his return as he appeared to be an ideal solution to help kickstart their offense again for the 2025 season and beyond.

Hernández put together an All-Star season in 2024, in which he posted a stellar .272 average and .840 OPS, along with 84 runs scored, 32 doubles, two triples, 33 home runs, 99 RBI and 12 stolen bases in 154 games played.

On top of that, he was a monster for the Dodgers during the MLB playoffs. Hernández batted .250 with a .769 OPS, together with eight runs scored, one double, three home runs and 12 RBI to become one of the key contributors to help fuel the team to victory. Being able to perform and come through on the biggest stage is something that the Blue Jays have severely lacked in recent years.

The Jays would surely benefit from Hernández’s championship-winning experience and elite offensive output once again if he entertains the idea of a possible second stint with the team. But if his latest words were any indication of what the future may hold for Hernández and the Blue Jays, that future as of right now doesn’t appear too bright.