As the World Baseball Classic nears, the Los Angeles Dodgers face uncertainty at second base for the start of the season. With Hyeseong Kim joining Team South Korea and Tommy Edman recovering from surgery, the Dodgers anticipate a gap in their lineup during Cactus League play. This situation has prompted the team to explore fresh options at the position while keeping Edman’s recovery and future availability in mind, signaling cautious preparation for Opening Day.
Manager Dave Roberts Weighs Emerging Candidates to Fill the Role
Following the Dodgers’ first loss of the winter, manager Dave Roberts addressed the challenge of replacing both Kim and Edman, highlighting two players showing promise in the short term. Roberts expressed enthusiasm for Santiago Espinal, a seasoned professional and former All-Star, along with Alex Freeland, a relatively new call-up eager to prove his worth. He noted their contrasting backgrounds but shared confidence in their ability to adapt and contribute while the team navigates these roster adjustments.
You know what? I think that Santiago is just a baseball player. He’s like he’s been an All-Star before. The game’s slow for him. I love the way he plays the game. I love his energy. The bat to ball, he catches it. Can you trust him anywhere on the diamond? And it’s been fun getting to know him,
Dave Roberts, Manager
And then I think Alex has really grown from last year. I think that the game has slowed down. I think he’s a lot more comfortable. Even today, right-handed, I thought he almost had a chance for a homer in that first inning. And his, at best, left hand had been good, and just kind of steady defensively. So it’s going to be interesting, because like you said, Hyeseong’s going to be gone. So we’ll get a lot more looks at Alex this spring.
Dave Roberts, Manager
Profiles of the Potential Second Base Replacements
Santiago Espinal embodies experience, having competed in the major leagues since 2020 with stints at the Toronto Blue Jays and Cincinnati Reds. His 2022 All-Star nod underscores his proven abilities. In contrast, Alex Freeland is still early in his professional journey, with only 29 games played after a recent call-up last fall. Both may benefit from increased playing time this spring, especially if Edman and utility player Kike Hernandez begin the season on the injured list, as expected. The tentative plan to give these players more innings could lead to their inclusion on the initial 40-man roster.
Impact on Team Composition and Season Outlook
The Dodgers are bracing for adjustments as key players like Edman and Kike Hernandez face recovery, creating opportunities for others to step into larger roles. Establishing depth at second base is crucial, especially with the looming absence of Hyeseong Kim during the WBC. Manager Roberts’ emphasis on trust, versatility, and growth within his lineup reflects the team’s strategy to maintain competitiveness despite these challenges.
We’re gonna miss him, and I’m just really happy to know that he’s anchoring our staff.
Dave Roberts, Manager
As the Dodgers contend with these roster shifts and the intense schedule ahead, the performances of Santiago Espinal and Alex Freeland during spring training will be closely watched. Their success could stabilize the team’s infield options in a critical phase of the season, potentially influencing how the Dodgers navigate the months ahead.
"We're gonna miss him, and I'm just really happy to know that he's anchoring our staff."
Dave Roberts talks with @kirsten_watson on Yamamoto's final outing before he leaves for the WBC, as the #Dodgers lose to the Giants, 12-4. #DodgersST⚾️🌵 pic.twitter.com/3sNlQ5gXBw
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) February 27, 2026
