Position Battle Brewing in Dodgers Camp
PHOENIX – Could a significant position battle be unfolding early in the Dodgers’ spring training?
It’s shaping up as a part-time rivalry, likely towards the bottom of the lineup, at least for the initial weeks of the regular season.
This is the current landscape for the Dodgers. With All-Star caliber talent throughout, there’s minimal real competition for regular spots on the field.
As long as everyone stays healthy, the starting lineup is mostly set. However, a recent development, such as manager Dave Roberts announcing that second baseman Tommy Edman will miss Opening Day due to ankle surgery recovery, changes that dynamic.
It’s not surprising that Edman will be sidelined at the season’s start. He spent most of the winter rehabilitating after surgery in November to fix persistent ankle issues from last season. Although Roberts has resumed baseball activities, practicing swings and light jogging, he emphasized the team’s cautious approach to Edman’s return.
“(We’re) trying to play with a long-term view,” Roberts remarked. “We want to avoid any setbacks.”
This means the Dodgers need to find a stand-in for Edman at second base, at least until he’s back. Miguel Rojas seems likely to play a key role here, offering veteran experience. But there may be chances for a left-handed platoon partner as well.
The most probable contenders are second-year infielder Kim Hye-sung and infielder Alex Freeland.
Both players showcased potential during their rookie seasons, though inconsistency marred their overall performance. This spring, they aim to demonstrate growth and improvement.
Kim, who was signed from South Korea in the offseason, made a splash in the majors early in May, hitting .383 in his first 36 games. He brought unexpected power alongside his speed and solid fielding skills.
Unfortunately, a shoulder injury sidelined him for a month, and during the latter part of the season, he struggled—batting only .175. Now, Kim is reflecting on his growth.
“I think I’m about 70 percent more comfortable with the adjustments to my swing from last year,” Kim said through an interpreter. “This offseason and spring training have helped me identify areas for improvement, and I’m putting in the work.”
He also added, “Last year wasn’t satisfying. I discovered what I need to focus on, and I’m aiming to rejoin the team right after spring training.”
Freeland, a highly regarded third-round pick, shares a similar narrative. He had notable performances in 29 major league games, including hitting back-to-back home runs against the San Diego Padres in late August. Despite that, he finished with a .190 average, swinging and missing frequently, something that Roberts noted has “speeded up.”
“Things didn’t go as planned last year, but every experience was a learning opportunity,” Freeland remarked. “Instead of taking it one at-bat at a time, I let my mindset stray. I started to overthink and struggled with failure.”
This provides both players with a chance for redemption.
The Dodgers also have several minor league veterans who could step up at second base, including Ryan Fitzgerald, Keston Hiura, Nick Senzel, and former All-Star Santiago Espinal, who was recently signed as a non-roster invitee. However, Kim and Freeland should seize this opportunity created by Edman’s injury for an inside track.
“Competition is good,” Roberts said, a sentiment that applies no matter how minor the role may appear.
