Full Breakdown
Tommy Edman to Miss Opening Day for Dodgers Following Ankle Surgery
2/17/2026, 11:59:46 AM
Edman's Recovery and Impact on the Dodgers
Los Angeles Dodgers utility player Tommy Edman will not be ready for Opening Day on March 26 against the Arizona Diamondbacks, as confirmed by manager Dave Roberts. Edman, who underwent right ankle surgery in November 2025, is currently on the injured list as he continues his recovery process. The 30-year-old had previously struggled with ankle issues throughout the 2025 season, limiting him to just 97 games.
Roberts emphasized the importance of a cautious approach to Edman's recovery, stating, “You don’t want to have any regression or setbacks, so how can we be methodical with it?” Edman has begun baseball activities, including light jogging and taking swings, but he is not yet at full speed. He acknowledged that aiming for an Opening Day return was overly ambitious, saying, “Everything’s on the expected schedule so far.”
Alternatives at Second Base
With Edman sidelined, the Dodgers will need to fill the second base position. Manager Roberts indicated that several players will compete for the role, including Miguel Rojas, Hyeseong Kim, and Alex Freeland. Rojas, a veteran, is expected to provide stability, while Kim and Freeland, both in their second MLB seasons, are looking to prove themselves after inconsistent performances last year.
Kim, who had a promising start to his rookie season but struggled later, expressed his determination to secure a spot on the Opening Day roster. Freeland, who faced challenges adapting to major league pitching, is also eager to demonstrate improvement. Roberts noted that competition for the position is beneficial, stating, “Competition is a good thing.”
Official Statements and Responses
Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes acknowledged Edman's ongoing recovery, highlighting the team's commitment to ensuring he returns to full health before playing. Edman himself has stressed the importance of not rushing back, saying, “If my ankle is 90%, not quite where I need it to be, I’m going to do my best to be patient with it.”
Criticism and Opposition
While the Dodgers are taking a cautious approach with Edman's recovery, some analysts argue that the team may miss his versatility and offensive contributions in the early part of the season. Edman has been a key player since joining the Dodgers, providing depth across multiple positions. His absence could impact the team's performance as they aim for a third consecutive World Series title.
What's Next
As the Dodgers prepare for the season, they will closely monitor Edman's recovery progress. The team hopes to have him back in the lineup by mid-to-late April, depending on how well he responds to rehabilitation. In the meantime, the competition for the second base position will be a focal point during spring training, with players vying for a chance to contribute to the defending champions.
