GOODYEAR, Ariz. – A former All-Star is making headlines at the Los Angeles Dodgers’ camp. Unlike the team’s prominent acquisitions this offseason, Santiago Espinal wasn’t part of the organization when camp began. He signed a minor-league contract, aiming to secure a place on the bench of this powerhouse team.
It seems that role is becoming his.
“It’d be difficult to envision him not being on the team,” manager Dave Roberts commented Thursday morning.
Espinal’s rise can’t solely be attributed to his impressive spring performance—he is 10-for-16 with four extra-base hits—but it certainly bolsters his case. He integrates “seamlessly,” according to Roberts, with support from former Toronto Blue Jays teammate Teoscar Hernández.
Infield Composition
His probable spot on the Dodgers’ Opening Day roster isn’t surprising. With Tommy Edman and Kiké Hernández out at the start of the season, the team is in need of utility depth, having already signed and subsequently lost Andy Ibáñez to waivers in their quest to fill that gap.
Catchers and Infields Analysis
For a clearer picture of the roster, let’s review some specifics. Will Smith is currently with Team USA for the World Baseball Classic, allowing Dalton Rushing to step up as the main catcher. The Dodgers still regard Rushing as a starting-caliber catcher, a sentiment he shares.
This spring, Rushing has improved his stance, making him more effective in tracking pitches, and he’s seen positive results, including two home runs. Meanwhile, the primary competition for the second-base platoon involves Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland, although Kim is currently with Team Korea at the WBC.
Outfield Outlook
In the outfield, the lineup appears more settled. Teoscar Hernández is performing well defensively in his return, while Kyle Tucker has been somewhat limited due to personal commitments. The Dodgers have praised rookie Andy Pages for his improved approach at the plate, bolstering the team’s outfield depth.
Pitching Staff Status
The starting rotation consists of Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, Roki Sasaki, and Emmet Sheehan. Despite some concerns about Sasaki’s performance, he’s expected to retain his spot in the rotation. The organization has off days that allow flexibility with their pitching lineup, accommodating the additional rest needed for Ohtani and Yamamoto.
Relief Pitchers and Injuries
Lastly, the bullpen configuration remains uncertain. Key relievers like Edwin Díaz and Tanner Scott are in place, but the emergence of Justin Wrobleski as a valuable option is promising. While some pitchers, such as Brusdar Graterol and Evan Phillips, are beginning the season on the injured list, the team remains hopeful for their quicker returns.
