Santiago Espinal Signs with Dodgers, Ending Reds Reunion Rumors Once and for All
For much of the offseason, a question quietly lingered among Cincinnati Reds fans: What if Santiago Espinal comes back? That door is officially closed now. The Los Angeles Dodgers have signed the former All-Star infielder to a minor-league deal, ending any speculation about a return to Cincinnati.
And while the move itself might not send shockwaves through the league, it certainly brings clarity to the Reds' spring training picture. According to MLB.com, Espinal had accepted an outright assignment to Triple-A Louisville back in October.
Many assumed he’d report to Goodyear with a chance to fight for a utility role on the 2026 Opening Day roster. Instead, he’ll be heading west to Camelback Ranch, where the Dodgers will take a look at what he still has to offer.
Espinal’s journey to Cincinnati began in 2024, when the Reds were forced to pivot after losing Matt McLain to a season-ending shoulder injury. In need of infield depth-particularly someone who could handle second base and spell Elly De La Cruz at shortstop-the Reds swung a late trade with the Blue Jays to bring in Espinal. Known for his glove and versatility, he gave the Reds exactly what they needed at the time.
He made a solid impression that first year. Espinal hit .246 with a .295 on-base percentage and a .356 slugging mark, while flashing dependable defense all over the infield.
He also held his own against left-handed pitching, which gave manager Terry Francona another tactical option late in games. That performance earned him a one-year deal heading into 2025.
But the wheels came off last season. Espinal’s production dipped across the board-his slash line fell to .243/.292/.282, and his OPS+ dropped to 57, well below league average.
His bat, once serviceable, became a liability. And yet, Francona continued to lean on him in key moments, a decision that often left fans scratching their heads.
There were several situations-late-game pinch-hit opportunities, defensive substitutions, or lineup decisions-where Espinal got the nod despite struggling at the plate. The most controversial move came late in the summer, when the Reds opted to keep Espinal on the roster rather than call up a top infield prospect.
That choice raised eyebrows, especially as the team battled for a postseason berth. Had the Mets not collapsed in spectacular fashion down the stretch, that decision might have loomed even larger.
Still, Espinal’s time in Cincinnati wasn’t without value. He brought veteran presence, positional flexibility, and a glove that could hold its own. But it became clear by season’s end that both sides were ready for a fresh start.
Now, with Espinal heading to the Dodgers, the Reds can move forward with a clearer picture of their infield depth and a renewed focus on giving younger talent a real shot. For fans in Cincinnati, it’s one less offseason question to worry about-and maybe a little peace of mind as spring training ramps up.