Dodgers Face Intriguing Second Base Battle Between Kim and Freeland

With Tommy Edman sidelined, the competition for the starting second base job is wide open in Los Angeles.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:57am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a baseball game, with the players' forms abstracted into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes.The Dodgers' second base battle is a complex strategic decision, with the team weighing the future implications of their choice between Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing an intriguing position battle at second base this spring training, with Hyeseong Kim and top prospect Alex Freeland vying for the starting role while Tommy Edman recovers from an ankle injury. The decision could have major implications for the Dodgers' future, as Kim's modest contract makes him an attractive trade option if he doesn't win the job, while Freeland's youth and lack of guaranteed salary make him a safer bet to start the season in the minors if he loses out.

Why it matters

The Dodgers' second base competition is about more than just filling a gap in the lineup - it's a strategic decision that could shape the team's future. Kim's versatility and experience make him a valuable asset, but the Dodgers may be forced to trade him if he doesn't secure the starting job. Meanwhile, Freeland's development as a top prospect is also at stake, as the Dodgers must weigh their long-term plans for the young infielder.

The details

With Tommy Edman sidelined due to an ankle injury, the Dodgers have a genuine position battle brewing at second base between Hyeseong Kim and top prospect Alex Freeland. While veteran Miguel Rojas is guaranteed a spot on the Opening Day roster, the real question is who will share or even surpass him as the everyday second baseman while Edman recovers. Manager Dave Roberts has made it clear that Kim and Freeland are essentially vying for the same spot on the 26-man roster, putting significant pressure on Kim to prove he belongs in the majors.

  • Tommy Edman's ankle injury was announced earlier this spring training, opening the door for the second base competition.
  • The Dodgers' spring training camp is currently underway, with the battle between Kim and Freeland heating up as the team prepares for the 2023 season.

The players

Hyeseong Kim

A versatile infielder signed by the Dodgers, Kim is looking to secure a starting role at second base this spring training. His modest contract makes him an attractive trade option if he doesn't win the job.

Alex Freeland

A top prospect in the Dodgers' farm system, Freeland is competing with Kim for the starting second base job. His youth and lack of guaranteed salary make him a safer bet to start the season in the minors if he loses out.

Tommy Edman

The Dodgers' starting second baseman, Edman is sidelined due to an ankle injury, opening the door for the Kim-Freeland competition.

Miguel Rojas

A veteran infielder, Rojas is guaranteed a spot on the Dodgers' Opening Day roster, but the team must decide how he fits into the second base picture alongside Kim and Freeland.

Dave Roberts

The Dodgers' manager, Roberts has made it clear that Kim and Freeland are essentially vying for the same spot on the 26-man roster.

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What’s next

The Dodgers will continue to evaluate Kim and Freeland throughout spring training, with the decision on the starting second baseman likely coming closer to the start of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' second base battle is a complex situation that goes beyond just filling a roster spot. It's a strategic decision that could have major implications for the team's future, as they must weigh the value of Kim's versatility and experience against Freeland's potential as a top prospect. The outcome of this competition could shape the Dodgers' lineup and roster decisions for the 2023 season and beyond.