Dodgers Spring Training: With Edman Sidelined, Second Base Battle Heats Up
Camelback Ranch, AZ - Spring is here, and with position players now in camp, Dave Roberts has slipped into that familiar February groove: upbeat, candid, and focused on building toward something bigger. There’s no rush in the air, but there’s clarity-especially when it comes to the infield.
The biggest early development? Tommy Edman won’t be ready for Opening Day.
That opens the door for a true competition at second base, and Roberts isn’t hiding from it. Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland are firmly in the mix, with others like Santiago Espinal and Miguel Rojas also expected to see time.
But it’s Kim and Freeland who could really make some noise this spring.
Edman Out, Opportunity Knocks
Let’s start with Edman. The versatile infielder is still in the early stages of his return from an ankle issue, and Roberts didn’t sugarcoat the situation.
“He took some swings a couple days ago from both sides, did some skipping, some light jogging,” Roberts said. “But he’s not going to be ready for the start of camp-or for Opening Day.”
That’s not a small loss. Edman brings switch-hitting versatility, elite defense, and a steady presence up the middle.
But Roberts made it clear the Dodgers are taking the long view. No shortcuts, no setbacks.
“We’re not going to rush it,” Roberts said. “We want to put him in the best position.
Just taking swings isn’t close to game speed. It takes time to get your body into baseball shape.”
So while Edman works his way back, the Dodgers are turning their attention to the options in front of them. And this spring, second base is officially up for grabs.
The Second Base Picture: Kim, Freeland, and More
Roberts didn’t hesitate to name names when asked who’s in the mix.
“Hyeseong’s in the mix,” he said. “We got Espinal.
Obviously Miggy Rojas is going to do some things over there. Alex Freeland, certainly in the mix.”
That’s not just a depth chart-it’s an open invitation. And for Kim and Freeland, it’s a chance to stake a claim to meaningful playing time.
Let’s start with Freeland. The young switch-hitter got his first taste of the big leagues last year, and as Roberts put it, “the game sped up on him.”
That’s not uncommon for a rookie, especially one asked to contribute in a playoff-caliber environment. But this spring is about showing growth.
“He’s had a great winter talking to the hitting coaches,” Roberts said. “The right-handed swing, left-handed swing is in a good spot. For me, it’s just taking good at-bats-taking walks, hitting the ball on a line, getting hits.”
Roberts isn’t asking Freeland to be a star. He just wants quality plate appearances and defensive versatility.
“He doesn’t need to carry an offense,” Roberts said. “Just keep moving around the diamond and take good at-bats.
I expect that this year from Alex.”
Kim, meanwhile, is coming off a season where he held his own in a limited role. Now, the Dodgers are expecting more.
“He got a good introduction to major league pitching,” Roberts said. “The adjustability with the high ball, the spin-that’s the big thing. I think he’s going to be better this year.”
Kim’s surface numbers were solid, but Roberts emphasized the intangibles. “He did a really nice job for us. He’s a hard worker and he’s an easy guy to bet on.”
And yes, Roberts confirmed what everyone was thinking: Kim and Freeland are competing for the same role.
“Yeah, I think that’s okay to say,” he said. “Competition is a good thing.”
What Else Is Happening in Camp?
With the full squad now in camp, Roberts gave a quick rundown of what’s ahead. Pitchers and catchers have been getting in their work, and now the position players are joining the action. Live batting practice is underway, and the first spring games are just around the corner.
“As we get geared up for Saturday, there’s probably going to be a few guys, our regulars, that are not going to be in the game,” Roberts said. “We have a long way to go.”
He also touched on the World Baseball Classic group, noting that players like Hyeseong Kim, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Shohei Ohtani are ramping up at their own pace.
“They’ll be ready,” Roberts said. “Yamamoto’s already thrown live, Sho’s taking some at-bats. They’re on their way.”
The Only Real Roster Drama? Second Base
Most of the Dodgers’ roster is locked in. That’s what happens when you’re a perennial contender with star power across the board.
But second base? That’s where the intrigue lives this spring.
With Edman sidelined, the door is wide open. And whether it’s Kim, Freeland, or someone else, the Dodgers are going to let the competition play out.
So if you’re looking for a storyline to follow over the next few weeks in Glendale, this is it. Two young infielders, both with upside, both with something to prove.
One job. Let the battle begin.