The Los Angeles Dodgers just won the World Series. Yet, they have already made crucial decisions regarding contract options, and roster space. These are just the beginning. Soon, they will have to decide which free agents to retain and which to let go. Here are some educated guesses about who will wear Dodger Blue next season.
Which Free Agents Will the Dodgers Bring Back?
Who’s Out?
Outfielder Michael Conforto signed a one-year contract last winter. The Dodgers hoped the veteran could have a year like Teoscar Hernandez did in 2024. Unfortunately, the flier didn’t work. Conforto had a season to forget. The left-handed hitter had a batting average of .199 with 12 homers and 36 runs batted in. His defense was underwhelming, too. As a result, his playing time dwindled, and he was left off the postseason roster. It is safe to say the outfield grass will be greener somewhere else.
Right-hander reliever Kirby Yates was also signed to a one-year contract last off-season. The veteran was coming off one of the best seasons of his stellar career. His sub-2.00 Earned Run Average made him one of the most effective relief options on the market. Yates began the year well. However, injuries soon derailed his year and his effectiveness. It became clear in early September that the veteran wouldn’t regain his form in 2025. If Yates continues his career, it will be in someone else’s uniform.
Who’s on the Fence?
Pitcher Andrew Heaney signed with the Dodgers on a minor-league deal at the beginning of September. Los Angeles likes pitching depth, as it hedges its bets against injuries. The veteran is an innings-eater, but he only made one big league appearance for the club this year. The Dodgers have plenty of starting rotation options going into 2026. However, with Clayton Kershaw’s retirement, there might be an opening for Heaney if he is willing to start the year in the minors.
Right-handed reliever Michael Kopech was a revelation when he came over to the Dodgers in 2024. He became the most-trusted closer during the stretch run until he got hurt. He has struggled with injuries beginning in Spring training this year. This led to limited availability and a less effective role. One of the off-season needs for the Dodgers this winter will be the bullpen. If Kopech can regain his health, there might be a chance that Los Angeles could sign him to a team-friendly contract. When he is healthy, he has a lethal repertoire. But only time can tell what happens next.
Who’s In?
Utility master Kike Hernandez is made for a Dodgers uniform. He can play nearly every position on the diamond, and everyone knows he turns into Superman in October. His .200 batting average in the regular season jumps 100 points as soon as the postseason arrives. And his defense isn’t too shabby either. At this point, it would be a shock to see him with another team next season.
Kiké Hernandez’s postseason resume is up there with anyone’s. Guy is just a force in October. pic.twitter.com/UwSkptduPN
— Jacob Rudner (@JacobRudner) November 1, 2025
Infielder Miguel Rojas has made it clear that he wants to retire after next season, but he wants to go out as a Dodger. He has been an invaluable teammate to his fellow infielders, especially Mookie Betts, who has turned into a Gold-Glove caliber shortstop with Rojas’s help. The gritty veteran came up big for his team in Games Six and seven of the World Series with his glove and his bat. With his contributions on and off the field, dollars to donuts, Rojas will be wearing blue in 2026.
Entering tonight, Miguel Rojas hadn’t gotten a hit in a month
Primarily a role player, he got the start because of his defense
In what might be his final career at bat, he homered in Game 7 of the World Series to tie it in the 9th
What a damn moment
pic.twitter.com/7ehVDL8Ura— Baseball Quotes (@BaseballQuotes1) November 2, 2025
Anything is possible next season, but the Dodgers know that the quest for a three-peat begins now. The question is which of these names will be along for the ride,
Main Photo Credits: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
