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The Los Angeles Dodgers have significant questions to answer this offseason after an earlier-than-expected exit in the National League Championship Series. While the franchise is not on the brink of collapse, it is undergoing a critical roster retooling. After failing to secure a three-peat in 2026, it appears the team's dependence on aging veterans may have reached its limit. The postseason run highlighted the need for the Dodgers to get younger without sacrificing the star power required to contend through the regular season and into October.
One position that must be addressed before the season is second base. Los Angeles needs better production there after the position provided very little in 2026. Miguel Rojas, the veteran of the group, retired after playing 49 games at the position and maintaining elite defense. While Rojas was clutch at times and reliable, he was no spring chicken. His play, along with the other second base options, was not good enough. The Dodgers' second base position combined for a .676 OPS, by far their lowest at any defensive position. That lack of production was a common theme throughout the season, which was disappointing for a team loaded with talent.
While the Dodgers have a handful of options at second base, it is clearly not enough. Tommy Edman has performed well in his tenure in Los Angeles; however, he has struggled with consistency and does not appear to be a long-term answer. Injuries have limited his availability since he arrived before the 2024 trade deadline. Edman was used all over the field last season, but his primary position was second base, where he played 53 games, including 42 starts. Although Edman has proven to be solid, the Dodgers would benefit more from continuing to use his versatility as a weapon, as they have done with Kiké Hernández.
From Edman to Alex Freeland and Hyeseong Kim, the Dodgers have options at second base, but none are all that great. Freeland is a young player who could become a staple with the Dodgers moving forward; however, he is unproven. Right now, the Dodgers are better off using Freeland in a utility role. As for Kim, he provides athleticism and defensive versatility, but his offense is suspect. In 2026, the 27-year-old hit .259 with a .651 OPS in 43 games and 116 at-bats. His time in the majors was once again limited.
Key Analysis
The Dodgers have no shortage of players who can handle second base, but whether any of them can provide the consistent production Los Angeles needs from an everyday starter remains to be seen. It is pivotal that the Dodgers resolve that position before it becomes one of the team's weakest next spring.