The Los Angeles Dodgers won back-to-back World Series titles in 2025, relying on both stars and lesser-known contributors. As the team eyes a potential three-peat, six players could play pivotal roles in the upcoming season.
The Dodgers' 2025 championship run highlighted the importance of depth, with contributions from players like Will Klein's relief in Game 3, Miguel Rojas' Game 7 homer and defense, and Andy Pages' extra-innings catch in Game 7. Stars Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Mookie Betts led the way, but unsung heroes were crucial to the repeat victory.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Dodgers aim for MLB's first three-peat since the 1998-2000 Yankees. Roki Sasaki, a rookie from Japan, impressed in the bullpen with one run allowed in 10 2/3 postseason innings, two holds and three saves. After a shoulder injury in May and a shift from starting, he returns to the rotation behind Yamamoto, Ohtani, Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow, needing to reduce walks from his eight 2025 starts.
Tanner Scott signed a four-year, $72 million deal but struggled with a 4.74 ERA, missing time for elbow inflammation and skipping the postseason due to an abscess procedure. His early 1.74 ERA and 21 strikeouts in 21 games showed potential for the bullpen, which posted a 4.27 ERA overall.
Prospect Dalton Rushing, 24, hit .204 with a .582 OPS in his debut, playing 41 games at catcher and eight at first base. Blocked by Will Smith, he may see outfield time after minor league experience.
Hyeseong Kim delivered 1.7 bWAR in 71 games, batting .280 with 13 steals, versatile at second base, shortstop and center field. Signed for three years at $12.5 million, he must improve his 30.6% strikeout rate for more playing time behind Tommy Edman, Betts and Pages.
River Ryan, recovering from 2025 Tommy John surgery, impressed in 2024 with a 1.33 ERA in 20 1/3 innings. His upper-90s fastball could add rotation depth.
Alex Freeland batted .190 in 29 games, excelling defensively at third and second base as a switch-hitter with strong plate discipline.