Santiago Espinal is headed to Los Angeles, and while the move might not make headlines the way a blockbuster trade would, it’s a classic Dodgers depth play - and one that could quietly pay off if things break right.
After spending most of the offseason in limbo following his removal from the Reds’ 40-man roster, Espinal has signed a minor-league deal with the defending World Series champs. The timing is notable: reports recently surfaced that Tommy Edman, a key piece in the Dodgers’ middle infield and center field rotation, is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day after undergoing ankle surgery. That opens the door - at least a crack - for someone like Espinal to make an impression in camp.
Let’s rewind a bit. Espinal’s name might feel like a blast from the not-so-distant past.
He was an All-Star in 2022, stepping in as the American League’s starting second baseman when Jose Altuve couldn’t go. At the time, he was a steady presence for the Blue Jays, providing contact hitting and defensive versatility.
But since then, it’s been a rough ride. Over the last two seasons - one with Toronto, two with Cincinnati - Espinal has posted a combined -1.5 bWAR.
That’s a steep drop-off from his All-Star campaign, and it helps explain why he was still unsigned deep into the offseason.
Last year with the Reds, Espinal slashed .243/.292/.282 across 114 games. The power was virtually nonexistent, and the on-base numbers weren’t much better.
He did, however, show his usual defensive flexibility, logging time at third base (75 games), second base (19), and even getting a few reps in the outfield (10 games). That kind of versatility has long been his calling card, and it’s likely what kept him on the radar for a team like the Dodgers.
Now, let’s be clear: this is a crowded competition. Espinal joins a group of non-roster invitees that includes Keston Hiura, Nick Senzel, Noah Miller, and Ryan Fitzgerald - all of whom are vying for a utility role or bench spot.
The Dodgers are known for stockpiling depth, and this spring will be no different. But Espinal’s glove and experience give him a shot, especially if he can show even marginal improvement at the plate.
He doesn’t need to be the 2022 All-Star version of himself. But if he can get on base more consistently or find a little extra pop in his bat, there’s a path to sticking around. With Edman sidelined and the grind of a 162-game season looming, the Dodgers know the value of having reliable, plug-and-play depth - especially from someone who’s been there before.
It’s a low-risk move for L.A., and for Espinal, it’s a chance to reset in a winning environment. Whether he can capitalize on it is up to him, but the opportunity is real. And in a clubhouse like the Dodgers’, where roles can shift quickly and depth is always tested, don’t be surprised if Espinal finds a way to make himself useful.