HUGE SURPRISE! President Mark Shapiro has delivered thrilling news to Blue Jays fans and manager John Schneider: the club is preparing €30 million (approximately $32 million USD) to secure the return of former star outfielder Teoscar Hernández during this offseason window.
Sources close to the front office reveal that Shapiro firmly believes Hernández has elevated his game dramatically since leaving Toronto, becoming one of the elite power hitters in baseball and the exact missing piece for Schneider’s aggressive, run-producing tactical system heading into the 2026 season.
In a leaked comment that has sent shockwaves through the MLB world, Shapiro reportedly declared: “It’s time for this star to return home to the Toronto Blue Jays!”
Blue Jays Nation, brace yourselves—this reunion could be the blockbuster move that pushes Toronto over the top after their heartbreaking Game 7 World Series loss in 2025.
Why Teoscar Hernández Is the Perfect Fit
Teoscar Hernández is no stranger to Toronto fans. Drafted by the Houston Astros but exploding onto the scene with the Blue Jays from 2017 to 2022, the Dominican slugger became a fan favorite with his electrifying power and cannon arm in right field.
During his time in Toronto, Hernández posted a .262 batting average with 129 home runs and 387 RBIs across six seasons. His breakout 2020 campaign earned him a Silver Slugger Award after he slashed .289/.340/.579 with 16 homers in the shortened season.
In 2021, he smashed a career-high 32 home runs, cementing his status as one of the game’s premier power threats.
Traded to the Seattle Mariners ahead of the 2023 season, Hernández continued to thrive before signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he played a key role in their 2024 World Series triumph.
In 2025 with the Dodgers, Hernández took his game to another level: a .285 average, 33 home runs, 102 RBIs, and Gold Glove-caliber defense in right field.
At 33 years old, he’s in his prime—more disciplined at the plate, with improved plate discipline and elite exit velocities that rank him among the top 10 hardest hitters in MLB.
Mark Shapiro and GM Ross Atkins see Hernández as the ideal complement to Vladimir Guerrero Jr., George Springer, and Daulton Varsho. His right-handed power would balance the lineup perfectly, providing the middle-of-the-order thump that was occasionally missing during clutch moments in the 2025 postseason.
Shapiro’s Vision: Building a Dynasty After 2025 Heartbreak
The 2025 season was magical for Toronto. After years of near-misses, the Blue Jays captured the AL East, swept the Yankees in the ALDS, defeated the Mariners in the ALCS, and pushed the mighty Dodgers to the brink in a thrilling seven-game World Series.
Though they fell just short, the run reignited passion across Canada and proved this core can contend.
Fresh off signing a five-year contract extension himself in December 2025, President Mark Shapiro is wasting no time. With John Schneider’s 2026 option already exercised (and extension talks ongoing), Shapiro is empowering the front office to go all-in.
The Blue Jays have already made waves this offseason, inking Dylan Cease to a massive rotation-boosting deal, adding Cody Ponce on a three-year pact, and bolstering the bullpen with Tyler Rogers.
But the offense needs one more star. Sources say Shapiro views Hernández’s improvement—better contact rates, fewer strikeouts, and elite defense—as transformative. “Teoscar has grown into a complete player,” one insider quoted Shapiro as saying. “He’s one of the best right fielders in the world now.
Bringing him back completes John Schneider’s vision of an explosive, athletic lineup that can dominate in 2026.”
The reported €30 million could structure as a two- or three-year deal with incentives, fitting Toronto’s aggressive payroll push toward $300 million for 2026. Rogers Communications, flush with renewed fan excitement, is fully backing Shapiro’s plan.
What This Means for John Schneider’s Tactics
Manager John Schneider, praised by Shapiro as one of baseball’s top skippers after guiding the Jays through tough 2025 moments, thrives with versatile, power-hitting outfielders. Hernández’s return would slot perfectly into right field, allowing flexibility with Varsho and Springer. Imagine this lineup:
George Springer (RF/DH) Bo Bichette (SS—if re-signed) Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1B) Teoscar Hernández (RF) Anthony Santander (LF/DH)
That’s championship-caliber firepower. Schneider’s aggressive style—emphasizing power, speed, and defense—would be supercharged.
Fan Reaction and the Emotional Homecoming
Blue Jays fans have never forgotten Teoscar. His booming home runs at the newly renovated Rogers Centre, his infectious energy, and his heartfelt connection with Toronto made him a beloved figure. Social media is already exploding with #BringBackTeoscar trending across Canada.
“Hernández left as a star and would return as a superstar,” one fan posted. “This is the move that wins us the World Series in 2026!”
The emotional angle can’t be overstated. Hernández has spoken fondly of Toronto in interviews, calling it “a second home.” A reunion would be storybook—especially after facing the Jays in potential past matchups.
What’s Next? The Deal Could Happen Soon
With the offseason heating up and big names like Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger still available, Toronto isn’t waiting. Insiders say negotiations are advanced, with Hernández’s camp receptive to returning north of the border.
If this €30 million splash lands, it sends a clear message: The Blue Jays are not content with one magical run. They’re building a dynasty.
Mark Shapiro has the vision. John Schneider has the tactics. Teoscar Hernández could be the missing piece.
Blue Jays fans—get ready. Your former star is coming home.
