Dodgers Add Former Blue Jays All-Star Infielder to Roster

Santiago Espinal will join the Dodgers' 40-man roster as they prepare for the new MLB season.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 12:26am

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have selected the contract of infielder Santiago Espinal, who was an All-Star with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2022. Espinal, who has spent the last two seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, signed a minor league deal with the Dodgers at the start of spring training and has impressed the team with his performance. With an injury to Tommy Edman, Espinal may have an opportunity to make an immediate impact for the Dodgers as they finalize their roster ahead of Opening Day.

Why it matters

The Dodgers are known for their depth and ability to develop talent, and the addition of Espinal provides them with another versatile infielder who can contribute both offensively and defensively. While Espinal's 2022 All-Star season was impressive, he'll need to prove he can consistently produce at the plate to earn a regular role with the Dodgers.

The details

Espinal made his MLB debut with the Blue Jays in 2020 and has spent the last two seasons with the Reds. He was an All-Star in 2022 with the Blue Jays, but struggled in 2025, posting a bWAR of -1.4 and hitting just .243 with 0 home runs in 301 at-bats. The Dodgers signed Espinal to a minor league contract at the start of spring training, and he's impressed the team with his performance, hitting two home runs and driving in 13 runs in Cactus League play.

  • The Dodgers selected Espinal's contract on March 19, 2026.
  • MLB's Opening Day is just over a week away.

The players

Santiago Espinal

A former All-Star infielder who has spent the last two seasons with the Cincinnati Reds and is now joining the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who announced that the team is selecting Espinal's contract and adding him to the 40-man roster.

Tommy Edman

An infielder for the Dodgers who is currently injured, potentially opening up an opportunity for Espinal to make an immediate impact.

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What they’re saying

“Santiago Espinal has fit in tremendously with the club.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' addition of Espinal highlights their commitment to building a deep, versatile roster that can withstand injuries and provide opportunities for players to contribute. While Espinal's past success doesn't guarantee future performance, the Dodgers are banking on his potential to help the team in both the short and long term.