Home / Sports / Dodgers Lose Infielder Espinal to Free Agency
Dodgers Lose Infielder Espinal to Free Agency
19 Jun
Summary
- Santiago Espinal rejected an assignment to Triple-A, opting for free agency.
- Espinal had two stints with the Dodgers in 2026, performing well in both.
- This marks the veteran infielder's departure from the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Santiago Espinal, a veteran infielder, has been lost to free agency by the Los Angeles Dodgers. After being designated for assignment earlier in the week and clearing waivers, Espinal rejected an outright assignment to Triple-A Oklahoma City. He instead opted to pursue opportunities as a free agent, ending his tenure with the Dodgers.
Espinal had a notable presence with the Dodgers in 2026, initially joining on a minor league deal and earning a spot on the Opening Day roster. He was DFA'd in late May but brought back due to another injury to Kiké Hernández. In his second stint, Espinal performed exceptionally well, hitting .400 with a .775 OPS. However, with Tommy Edman's return from the injured list, the Dodgers again designated Espinal for assignment.
Manager Dave Roberts cited the team's current roster fit as the reason for Espinal's departure. Espinal concludes his time with the Dodgers hitting .268 across 36 games, with one home run and seven RBIs. His career includes time with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he was an All-Star in 2022, and the Cincinnati Reds before joining Los Angeles. At 31 years old, Espinal remains a capable contributor with potential for MLB teams.
