The Dodgers’ infield picture is starting to take shape, but it’s clear the second base job is still very much up for grabs as spring training approaches. Earlier this month, Los Angeles designated utility man Ryan Fitzgerald for assignment to make room for Andy Ibañez on the 40-man roster. But Fitzgerald cleared waivers and will stick around as organizational depth after being outrighted to Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Fitzgerald’s journey has been a grind. After seven seasons in the minors, he finally broke through with the Twins last year, logging his first Major League at-bats at age 31.
In limited time, he hit .196 with four home runs and six RBIs over 46 at-bats - not eye-popping numbers, but he showed some pop and patience with a .302 on-base percentage. In Triple-A, though, he was a different hitter, slashing .277/.367/.469 across 59 games.
His defensive versatility - capable of playing shortstop, second, and third - makes him a valuable depth piece for a Dodgers team already dealing with some key injuries.
That injury trouble starts with Tommy Edman. The veteran utility man, who was expected to take over as the Dodgers’ primary second baseman in 2026, is still recovering from offseason ankle surgery. His status for Opening Day is uncertain, and that’s already forcing the Dodgers to explore their contingency plans.
Enter Andy Ibañez. The former Tigers infielder was added to the 40-man roster this month, and he’s now firmly in the mix to compete for the second base job in camp. Ibañez brings some solid experience and flexibility to the table - a classic Dodgers move to bolster depth with a player who can step into a bigger role if needed.
Miguel Rojas, who re-signed on a one-year deal this offseason, gives L.A. another steady glove. While his primary role will be as a backup, he’s expected to see time at both second and third base, especially to help manage Max Muncy’s workload over the course of the season. Rojas might not be the long-term answer at second, but he’s a reliable option if the Dodgers need to plug a hole early.
And then there’s Kiké Hernández. The fan favorite is working his way back from offseason surgery on his left elbow and isn’t expected to be ready for Opening Day. Still, if he returns healthy later in the season, you can bet he’ll be back in the mix as a key utility piece.
The Dodgers also have a couple of young names worth watching this spring: Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland. Both are expected to compete for a roster spot, and while neither has the experience of Edman or Rojas, they bring energy and upside. This spring could be a proving ground for one - or both - to make their case for Opening Day.
So, who takes the second base job to start the 2026 season? That’s still to be determined.
But what’s clear is the Dodgers are giving themselves options - veterans, prospects, and everything in between. It’s a classic depth-first approach from a front office that’s always thinking a few steps ahead.
Whether it’s Ibañez, Rojas, a healthy Edman, or one of the kids stepping up, the Dodgers are setting the stage for a spring competition that’s worth watching.