Dodgers continue to stack their lineup as they sign former Toronto Blue Jays infielder
|
Victor William
Feb 16, 2026 (1:37 PM)
|
|
Photo credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Santiago Espinal signs a massive minor league deal with the Dodgers to revitalize his career and chase a championship ring.
The baseball universe never stops spinning, and today we see a familiar face finding a brand new home out West.
Santiago Espinal (Age 31, Drafted Round 10, 2016 by Boston Red Sox) is officially joining the Los Angeles Dodgers organization.
It is a minor league contract, but it includes a highly coveted invitation to major league spring training.
This move comes right on the heels of the news that utility man Tommy Edman will miss Opening Day.
Espinal struggled offensively in 2025, hitting just .243 with zero home runs and a .574 OPS for the Cincinnati Reds.
Those numbers are tough to swallow for a guy who used to spray line drives all over the field.
A change of scenery can work absolute wonders for a veteran trying to rediscover his rhythm at the plate.
Dave Roberts needs reliable depth to weather the early storm
There is a real sense of hope seeing Espinal get a chance to prove his worth on the biggest stage.
Toronto Blue Jays fans still hold a soft spot for him, remembering his clutch hits and infectious clubhouse energy.
He brings incredible defensive versatility, capable of playing second base, third base, and shortstop with exceptional instincts.
The Dodgers are famous for their ability to fix hitters and maximize their defensive alignments.
If any coaching staff can help Espinal reclaim the form that made him an All-Star in 2022, it is this group.
He will be competing fiercely in camp against guys like Miguel Rojas and Hyeseong Kim for a bench spot.
Baseball is a game of constant adjustments, and Espinal now has the perfect environment to show his resilience.
Every single spring training rep will matter immensely as he fights to wear Dodger blue on Opening Day.
Also read on Toronto Baseball Insider :
San Diego Padres steal away Toronto Blue Jays gold glove winning infielder
San Diego Padres steal away Toronto Blue Jays gold glove winning infielder