Heading into the 2026 season, the Los Angeles Dodgers boast significant clarity in their infield lineup, anchored by a group of All-Stars and Gold Glovers. While starters like Will Smith, Freddie Freeman, Tommy Edman, Mookie Betts, and Max Muncy are set to return, depth options add intrigue amid injury concerns. Tommy Edman's ankle surgery recovery remains the primary question mark.
As Spring Training approaches, the Dodgers' infield stands out for its continuity among position groups. The projected starters include catcher Will Smith, first baseman Freddie Freeman, second baseman Tommy Edman, shortstop Mookie Betts, and third baseman Max Muncy. This lineup, comprising All-Stars and Gold Glove winners, is expected to form the core when all players are healthy and available.
The main uncertainty revolves around Edman, a versatile switch-hitter rehabbing from offseason surgery on his right ankle. He is anticipated to face delays entering Spring Training and could start the season on the injured list, potentially opening second base for others. Even when fully recovered, Edman may split time with center field duties, though he earns the starting nod at second due to his infield play last year.
Depth players include Dalton Rushing, who made his MLB debut last season but struggled offensively in limited action; he is slated to back up Smith at catcher and could spell Freeman at first base. Miguel Rojas appears as the logical interim starter at second if Edman is sidelined early. Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland offer left-handed platoon options, with Freeland—MLB Pipeline's No. 4 Dodgers prospect—being a switch-hitter primarily deployed against right-handers last year.
Newly acquired Andy Ibáñez, a right-handed hitter versatile across the infield, could replace Muncy against tough lefties at third base. Muncy's injury history has restricted him to just 173 games over the past two seasons, underscoring the value of such depth. Beyond the 40-man roster, the Dodgers re-signed catcher Chuckie Robinson to a Minor League deal after his single-game appearance last year, while shortstop prospect Noah Miller (No. 25) looms as a future option.
A potential reunion with free agent Kiké Hernández could bolster infield and outfield depth; the fan favorite is recovering from elbow surgery and expected to miss early-season time, likely delaying any signing until near Spring Training.