Tommy Edman's return ends Dodgers' tiresome Santiago Espinal experiment

Tommy Edman will make his 2026 season debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, marking his return from offseason ankle surgery. While previous roster moves for the Dodgers this season have left room for intrigue, Dave Roberts spared us the theatrics with corresponding move for Edman's return.

Roberts told reporters on Monday that veteran utility infielder Santiago Espinal will be designated for assignment.

While Espinal has provided value to the Dodgers because of his versatility, he didn't much else that warranted a spot on the roster. In fact, had it not been for the injury to Kiké Hernandez two days after his initial return, Espinal likely would be elsewhere by now. LA previously cut Espinal loose but the injury to Hernandez led to a quick return. With Edman healthy, the end of the line has arrived once again.

To Espinal's credit, upon his return to the Dodgers earlier this season, he started hitting. He collected 9 hits in his last 26 plate appearances with a home run and a double. Of course, the 34 plate appearances before that, he left much to be desired. He carried a slash line of .188/.188/.250 with a wRC+ of 15 before the Dodgers originally attempted to cut him loose.

Santiago Espinal's Dodgers' run is likely over for good this time

Espinal will once again pass through waivers, and assuming he clears, it stands to reason that the Dodgers will try to outright him to Triple-A. Though, between his positional versatility and recent results, chances are he will seek an opportunity elsehwere. Roberts' comments all but indicate that the Dodgers wouldn't have much of a plan for Espinal if he were to remain with the organization.

Edman's return should be a boost for the Dodgers' starting lineup. Of course, things don't look as dire as they did at the start of May, considering Shohei Ohtani is back to looking like Shohei Ohtani; but with Will Smith on the IL and Mookie Betts struggling to find his form, Edman should provide some stability and length for the lineup.

Not to mention, it ends the revolving door the Dodgers have had at second base to start the season. Espinal, Hyeseong Kim, and Alex Freeland all had admirable efforts in Edman's place, but now is time for the the Dodgers to get healthy.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow