Dodgers Spring Training Star’s Salary Revealed
Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Santiago Espinal will make $2.5 million in MLB after LA selected his contract in spring training, per Fabian Ardaya.
The figure is relatively small for the Dodgers, who will have the highest payroll in MLB in 2026. If he can continue to produce at the level he has in spring, the Dodgers will happily take the minor financial hit.
The Dodgers signed Espinal to a minor league deal at the beginning of spring training, and he has had a much larger impact than anticipated for LA. Espinal has been fantastic at the plate in the Cactus League not being known for his bat, hitting two home runs and driving in 13 runs with a .389/.432/.639 slash line.
Both of his home runs came against the Cincinnati Reds — his former team — in a game which he went 2-for-2 with six RBIs. He had a hit in six of the first seven games of the season and in 10 of his first 13.
He’s been hard at work all spring, not just hitting, but learning from his World Series champion teammates.
“They’re hungry,” Espinal said . “As soon as I got here, being around players who have 10 plus years in the league, eight-plus years in the league, for me it’s amazing to have the opportunity to talk to them and pick their brains. It’s been amazing so far this spring training.”
Manager Dave Roberts has sung Espinal’s praises all spring, acknowledging his “ seamless ” transition onto the team and saying he’d be on the Opening Day roster well before the Dodgers made the final decision.
What Role Will Santiago Espinal Fill for the Dodgers?
The Dodgers will likely use Espinal in a utility role for the season, but the infielder could take over as their Opening Day second baseman while Tommy Edman continues his recovery from offseason surgery on his right ankle.
After Edman returns, Espinal will likely see a smaller role as a utility man who can play both in the infield and the outfield, but should still see solid game time if he can keep up outside of spring training.
Espinal is a seasoned MLB veteran with a solid glove and an All-Star appearance under his belt, and will look to contribute in any way he can as the Dodgers look for a three-peat.
What do you think of the Dodgers’ decision on Santiago Espinal?
