Jim Bowden keeps hearing that the Blue Jays want Teoscar Hernández back. The rumour is gaining steam, but the numbers still argue against it.

Bowden shared the intel on his GM Territory podcast. “The rumors that I keep hearing are that the Toronto Blue Jays have interest in reuniting with Teoscar Hernandez, who was a fan favorite when he was in Toronto,” he said.

The Dodgers may be willing. Bowden said Los Angeles wants to get “a little bit younger, a little bit more athletic,” with left field one spot where that could happen.

The Dodgers also have outfield prospects ready, including Josue De Paula. That makes a 34-year-old veteran more expendable.

Toronto's history with him runs deep. Over six seasons with the Jays, he posted an .823 OPS with 129 homers.

He earned his first All-Star selection in 2021 and finished in the top 20 of MVP voting that year.

Teoscar Hernández's Jays nostalgia doesn't match his recent decline

So why the hesitation? Because the 2026 version isn't the one fans remember.

He hit a career-low 16 homers this season and struck out 27.5% of the time. His defence in left field also graded poorly.

He carries a luxury tax hit of just under $20 million, too. That's a lot for a hitter trending toward full-time DH work.

The fact that the rumour won't die doesn't make it a good idea. If Toronto wants a corner outfielder, Seiya Suzuki or Teruaki Sato offer far more upside for similar money.

Chasing this reunion is like heading back to your old high school for a pickup game. The gym looks the same, but your knees remind you it isn't.

There's one path where it works. If the Jays move Anthony Santander and open the DH spot, Hernández would make more sense.

Bowden also hinted that second base could change in Los Angeles, which might open an entirely different trade conversation.

For now, Ross Atkins should treat Hernández as a fallback, not a target. If the Jays end up making this deal first, they'll have aimed too low.