Dodgers Likely to Add Former Blue Jays Star to Roster

Infielder Santiago Espinal impresses in Dodgers' spring training

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Los Angeles Dodgers are expected to add former Toronto Blue Jays infielder Santiago Espinal to their MLB roster after he impressed during spring training. Espinal, a six-year MLB veteran and former All-Star, has been on fire at the plate, batting .571 with a .667 on-base percentage through six games. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts suggested it's hard to see a scenario where Espinal doesn't make the team's opening day roster, providing the defending champions with additional infield depth and versatility.

Why it matters

The Dodgers already have one of the best rosters in baseball, but adding a former All-Star like Espinal as a utility player gives them even more depth and flexibility, especially with the injury risk that comes with a 162-game season. Espinal's ability to play both second and third base will allow the Dodgers to rest their starters and manage workloads throughout the year.

The details

Espinal spent the first four seasons of his MLB career with the Toronto Blue Jays before being traded to the Cincinnati Reds last year. The 31-year-old infielder has been impressive in Dodgers' spring training, slashing .571/.667/.714 through six games. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said it's hard to envision a scenario where Espinal doesn't make the team's opening day roster, likely in a utility role.

  • The Dodgers signed Espinal to a minor league contract with a non-roster invitation to spring training in the offseason.

The players

Santiago Espinal

A six-year MLB veteran and former All-Star infielder who spent the first four seasons of his career with the Toronto Blue Jays before being traded to the Cincinnati Reds.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Tommy Edman

An infielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers who is currently injured.

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What they’re saying

“It's hard to see a scenario where Espinal won't open the regular season on their big league roster.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Dodgers will continue to evaluate Espinal's performance during the remainder of spring training before making a final decision on his roster spot for opening day.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' addition of Santiago Espinal as a utility infielder demonstrates their commitment to building an exceptionally deep and versatile roster, even for a team that has already won back-to-back World Series championships. Espinal's ability to play multiple infield positions will provide valuable insurance and flexibility for the Dodgers throughout the long MLB season.