Dodgers' Espinal Explodes Against Reds as Roster Momentum Builds

"It's pretty amazing, that's what it's all about. You've got to compete everyday when you come here. You've got to compete in anything you do. Whether it's hitting, whether it's different you've got to compete and this is what it's all about."

"Espinal went 2-for-2 with two home runs, a solo shot and a three-run blast, and picked up two more RBIs with two sacrifice flies in the Dodgers' 14-13 loss. So far this spring, Espinal is 12-for-19 and has four consecutive multi-hit games. His eight RBIs in the Cactus League rank first on the Dodgers, as does his 1.761 OPS."

"With Tommy Edman out for Opening Day as he recovers from ankle surgery, there is a wide open spot at second base and Espinal could be the frontrunner for the position if he continues to produce."

Santiago Espinal delivered an outstanding performance against the Cincinnati Reds with two home runs, four RBIs via two sacrifice flies, and a 2-for-2 record in a 14-13 Dodgers loss. The 31-year-old infielder signed a minor league deal with Los Angeles and has excelled in spring training, posting a 12-for-19 record with four consecutive multi-hit games and a team-leading 1.761 OPS and eight RBIs. Manager Dave Roberts indicated it would be "hard to imagine" Espinal not making the Opening Day roster. With Tommy Edman sidelined by ankle surgery, a second base opportunity exists. Despite his impressive spring showing, Espinal's career .574 OPS suggests consistent offensive production at this level remains uncertain.

Read at Dodgers Nation