The Seattle Mariners made a surprising move this week when they decided not to offer a qualifying offer to Teoscar Hernandez for the 2021 season. Hernandez had been a key part of the Mariners’ lineup in 2020, hitting .255 with 11 home runs and 30 RBIs in just over half a season.
The decision not to offer Hernandez a qualifying offer means that he will become a free agent this offseason and can sign with any team he chooses. It also means that the Mariners will not receive any compensation if Hernandez signs with another team.
This move is surprising because Hernandez was one of the most productive players on the Mariners’ roster in 2020. He was also one of the few bright spots in an otherwise dismal season for the team.
The Mariners may have decided not to offer Hernandez a qualifying offer because they are looking to rebuild their roster for the 2021 season. They have already made several moves this offseason to acquire younger, more cost-effective players.
It is also possible that the Mariners did not want to commit to Hernandez for the long-term. He is entering his age-30 season and may not be worth the money he would command on the open market.
Whatever the reason, the Mariners’ decision not to offer Hernandez a qualifying offer is sure to have an impact on their 2021 season. They will now need to find a way to replace his production in the lineup, which could be difficult given their limited resources.
It remains to be seen what kind of impact this decision will have on the Mariners’ 2021 season, but it is clear that they are taking a risk by not offering Hernandez a qualifying offer. Only time will tell if it pays off.
