Blue Jays analyst claims a Teoscar Hernandez reunion in Toronto will help retain Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Teoscar Hernandez is arguably the best outfielder remaining in the free-agent market. Though his fielding has been susceptive, his slugging has been exceptional, particularly in the Dodgers' postseason.

The Toronto Blue Jays have not made a significant move in the offseason, though they were rumored to be in the hunt for Juan Soto. Moreover, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, their two biggest stars, will become free agents after the end of the 2025 season.

Analyst Skylar Peters, a Global Calgary reporter, thinks that if the Blue Jays acquire Teoscar Hernandez, it will help them retain Guerrero Jr. on a long-term deal. Peters shared his thoughts on Wednesday's episode of the "Locked on Blue Jays" podcast, where he was a special guest.

When co-host Brayden Ewasko enquired about the possibility of Hernandez reuniting with the Blue Jays, Peters replied:

"I should have mentioned him [Teoscar Hernandez] when Carter [Fuerst] (podcast co-host) asked me about free agent offensive players that, you know, the Jays could take a look at.

"I would be in for not only for what Teo can do with his bat, which we've seen during his time in Toronto and, obviously, he did well enough to help the Dodgers win the World Series, but like I think you just need to get some good vibes back in this clubhouse." [16:06 -16:47]

The analyst elaborated on Hernandez and Guerrero Jr.'s friendship, suggesting it might make the first baseman think twice before leaving Toronto.

"Obviously, everyone knows his connection with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and I think they work out together in the offseason. Seems like Vladdy is posting a fair bit with or about Teo.

"And if you're at, you know, looking at keeping Vladdy around, this is probably a good chip to have in your pocket. You know, one of his best friends on your team with him again," said Peters [16:28 - 16:48].

Teoscar Hernandez played six years in Toronto, from 2017 to 2022. Hernandez's best season with the Blue Jays was in 2021, winning the Silver Slugger Award, and earning All-Star and All-MLB Second Team selection.

Analyst points out one negative Teoscar Hernandez would have on Blue Jays

Teoscar Hernandez had the best season of his MLB career with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024 in terms of WAR and home runs. His 4.3 WAR and 33 homer runs are 0.5 and 1 more than his 2021 season with the Blue Jays.

However, the same cannot be said of Hernandez's fielding abilities. Skylar Peters pointed it out on the "Locked on Blue Jays" podcast.

"Obviously, there's a spot in the outfield for Teo right now at left field for the Blue Jays. You know, it might not help the team's potential third straight team Gold Glove," said Peters [From 16:48]

Nonetheless, the analyst believes Teoscar Hernandez's power at the plate negates his defensive vulnerabilities. Moreover, he wants the outfielder back with the Blue Jays, hoping there is no bad blood from when they parted ways.