3 Dodgers players whose roster spots were saved (for now) after Kiké and Teoscar injuries

The hope was that Kiké Hernández's return would mark a step toward the Los Angeles Dodgers getting fully healthy. The team opened the season with both Hernández and Tommy Edman on the IL, forcing some shuffling around for the final pieces on the Dodgers' bench.

The hope was fleeting, considering Hernández only made it two games before suffering a significant oblique tear. Making matters worse, after the news of Kiké's injury was confirmed, Teoscar Hernández landed on the IL with a hamstring injury. Dave Roberts wasted little time confirming the veteran outfielder would need an IL stint, suggesting it might be some time before Dodgers fans get to see the club at full strength.

Here are the Dodgers players who have renewed life after the injuries to Teoscar Hernández and Kiké Hernández

It's unfortunate that it has to come at the expense of injuries, but several Dodgers players have had their shelf life extended in the aftermath of Kiké and Teoscar going down with injuries this week.

Santiago Espinal

There was quite the shuffling of parts before Friday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies. Most notably, the Dodgers signed Santiago Espinal once again, just days after designated him for assignment.

Even in his return to the Dodgers, Espinal likely does not have that much of a shelf life left in LA. His versatility aside, a wRC+ of 66 is only going to take a player so far. Conventional wisdom would point to Edman's return putting Espinal's status back in limbo, especially now that Hyeseong Kim has return to the minors.

Alex Freeland

During spring training, it was clear that the Dodgers were looking for any excuse to have Freeland break camp with the team. While there is clear offensive development needed, the Dodgers valued the defense Freeland played at second base. Of course, that could only go so far, and that is why Freeland was optioned when Betts made his return.

But with Edman still ramping up, the Dodgers simply need additional infield depth. Freeland is back with the Dodgers and it would seem that he'll stuck around for a little bit, at least until Edman completes a minor-league rehab assignment.

Ryan Ward

Finally, it would seem that Ryan Ward has a runway to some playing time with the Dodgers. He got a cup of coffee with Dodgers earlier this season when Freddie Freeman was on paternity leave, but he only collected six plate appearances. With Teoscar Hernández out for the next 10 days, at least, it would seem that Ward could see a start or two in the outfield.

The added advantage is that Ward can also showcase how his offensive success in the minors transfers to the majors. He certainly is going to be someone dangled in trade talks during the months ahead, and this current look for Ward could help LA's efforts in those talks.

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