### Hernandez and Flaherty Express Strong Desire to Stay with Dodgers Following World Series Victory

In the wake of the Los Angeles Dodgers' triumphant World Series win, key players Teoscar Hernandez and Jack Flaherty have expressed a strong desire to remain with the team as they head into free agency. Both players have significantly contributed to the Dodgers' championship run and are eager to don the Dodgers jersey again next season.

"My hopes are really high. Like I've said before, the Dodgers are the priority, obviously," said Hernandez in a conversation with reporters. "I'm going to do everything in my power to come back.... I want us to be here. I want us to be part of this. I have so many good memories here. I've learned a lot as a player, as a person. It feels great to be part of this." Similarly, Jack Flaherty, a Los Angeles native born in Burbank, expressed his emotional attachment to the city. "I love this city. I never want to leave," he told David Vassegh of SportsNet LA, adding a personal note to his ambitions of returning.

The Dodgers' future roster decisions are under scrutiny as the offseason approaches. Hernandez's potent bat would be a valuable asset in left field, especially following what has been one of the best performances of his nine-season career, further showcased by his impressive playoff contributions. However, if Hernandez were to reject a qualifying offer, the Dodgers might benefit from a compensatory draft pick should he sign with another team. Alternatively, the Dodgers could look to give Andy Pages more playing time or pursue other options like a high-profile outfielder, with names like Juan Soto potentially on the radar.

Flaherty's situation also presents an interesting dynamic. He rebounded from a challenging 2024 season, delivering a solid 3.17 ERA across his time with both the Tigers and the Dodgers. Despite a more erratic postseason, his presence provided much-needed stability to an injury-plagued Dodgers rotation. Given the uncertainties surrounding other pitchers' health, including Clayton Kershaw's, bringing back Flaherty could add the necessary depth to ensure quality innings in the upcoming season.

Speaking of Kershaw, the veteran ace has committed to making a return for an 18th season with the Dodgers, despite undergoing surgeries on his left knee and toe. "I'll be back, somehow," Kershaw stated, indicating his determination to continue his storied career with the team. The Dodgers might consider restructuring his contract to accommodate both the team’s and Kershaw's needs moving forward.

In other news, it was revealed that Freddie Freeman played through significant injuries during the playoffs. Alongside an ankle sprain and bone bruise, Freeman also suffered broken costal cartilage in his rib just before the Dodgers' NLDS matchup with the Padres. Despite these injuries, Freeman managed to make notable contributions, although his performance was hampered initially. The brief rest period before the World Series allowed him to recover and ultimately earn the World Series MVP title.

As the Dodgers look toward constructing their 2025 roster, the expressed desires of Hernandez and Flaherty to return underscore the team's strong sense of community and commitment to continued success. The offseason will reveal how these dynamics play out, but the foundation for another contending year appears securely in place.