Dodgers Spring Training: Santiago Espinal 'Fitting In Seamlessly'

"It'd be hard to imagine him not being on the team. Roberts said of Espinal, who signed a Minor League deal with L.A. and is in camp as a non-roster invitee."

"I can trust him essentially anywhere on the diamond. [Outfield] corners, second, third, and I think even in a pinch, he can play short. ... And also a bat off the bench. If we need a right-handed bat, he's going to put the ball in play and take a professional at-bat."

"He is a baseball player. He's a smart player. He knows the type of player he needs to be to be a Major League player. He has fun playing, but there's a focus when he plays. He plays with enthusiasm, which is tempered."

Santiago Espinal signed a Minor League deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers as a non-roster invitee competing for the starting second base position. The 31-year-old former All-Star impressed manager Dave Roberts with his performance in Cactus League play, securing a spot on the Opening Day roster. Espinal provides right-handed hitting infield depth and demonstrates versatility across multiple defensive positions including second base, third base, outfield corners, and shortstop. Roberts praised Espinal's professionalism, baseball intelligence, and ability to contribute as both a starter and bench player. Espinal has integrated seamlessly into the Dodgers' clubhouse culture, displaying enthusiasm and focus while maintaining a professional approach to the game.

Read at Dodger Blue