How are these 3 DH options the Mets passed on before signing J.D. Martinez doing in 2024?

Did the Mets make the right call on J.D. Martinez while passing over other DH options in free agency?
May 4, 2024; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA;  New York Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez (28) looks
May 4, 2024; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; New York Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez (28) looks / Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports
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3) Teoscar Hernandez

It’s a bit tougher to judge Teoscar Hernandez’s 2024 performance because of the lineup he’s in. Hand a newborn a bat and put them in the Los Angeles Dodgers starting lineup and they’ll find a way to drive in runs.

Hernandez wasn’t a typical DH target and apparently the Dodgers didn’t view him as one anyway. With the presence of Shohei Ohtani, those chances to take a half-day off are far fewer. Hernandez has worked as the Dodgers right fielder with some appearances in left field. He has actually rated positively in right field which is an added bonus to what his bat has done.

A workhorse for the Dodgers this year playing in all 50 games while leading the majors as well, Hernandez has slashed .247/.309/.468 with 11 home runs and 37 RBI. Those last two numbers would lead the Mets.

There never were any true Mets rumors about the team pursuing Hernandez in the offseason, but it didn’t stop fans from dreaming up the possibility. His big right-handed bat behind Pete Alonso in the lineup could have made a difference. After what we went through the last two seasons at the DH spot, almost anyone would’ve been acceptable.

Hernandez’s deal with the Dodgers ended up at one-year and $23.5 million with $8.5 million of it deferred. It’s contracts like this one the Mets never had a chance to make because of their payroll limitations. Fortunately, we do have Martinez. Although slow to hit for power this year, the .300+ batting average has been a much-needed addition.

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