Dodgers promote former Blue Jays All-Star eight days before Opening Day

Santiago Espinal at least had a clue he was going to be on the Los Angeles Dodgers ’ opening day roster on March 5, when manager Dave Roberts told reporters in spring training it was hard to imagine the former All-Star beginning the season in the minor leagues.

On March 18, the Dodgers made Espinal’s major league promotion official.

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Espinal’s contract was selected by the Dodgers, immediately promoting him to the team’s 40-man roster ahead of their first regular season game on March 26.

Espinal was an All-Star with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2022, when he slashed .267/.322/.370.

Last year with the Cincinnati Reds , Espinal saw time at all four infield positions, as well as left and right field, while slashing .243/.292/.282.

The Dodgers liked Espinal’s defensive versatility and offensive potential enough to sign him to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training in February.

Espinal proceeded to slash .389/.432/.639 with two home runs and 13 RBIs in 15 Cactus League games. A right-handed hitter, Espinal could see the bulk of his time at second base in a platoon situation with second-year infielder Hyeseong Kim , a left-handed hitter.

Los Angeles hosts the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 26 at Dodger Stadium in the first regular season game for both teams.

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