Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is optimistic that both Freddie Freeman and Miguel Rojas will be ready for the start of the National League Division Series this Saturday. However, should either player be unable to participate, Roberts has already devised a contingency plan.
Freeman is currently dealing with a sprained ankle, while Rojas is coping with an injury to his left adductor. Despite these setbacks, both players are hopeful about being included in the Dodgers’ roster when they take on either the Atlanta Braves or the San Diego Padres this weekend.
Roberts expressed confidence regarding their return, stating, “I don’t see any reason both those guys don’t get in the lineup,” as reported by Jack Harris from the Los Angeles Times. This positivity suggests that the team is focused on getting its key players back on the field as soon as possible.
In the event that Freeman and Rojas are not ready for Game 1, Roberts has identified Max Muncy as a potential fill-in at first base. Although Muncy has primarily played third base throughout the season and has only appeared at first base twice since 2022, Roberts plans to have him train at first during the Dodgers’ downtime this week. This would not only help Muncy regain his sharpness for the position but would also allow Enrique Hernandez to shift over to third base.
For shortstop responsibilities, Tommy Edman is expected to step in, given his experience playing the position. Edman has appeared as a shortstop 18 times during his abbreviated regular season of 37 games, making him a capable option for the Dodgers.
Roberts remains hopeful that both Freeman and Rojas will be back in the lineup soon, referring to their injuries as “a more short-term thing.” This outlook reflects a level of confidence in the players’ recovery timelines.
Additionally, Rojas has proven to be a quietly effective asset to the Dodgers’ infield. While the lineup boasts significant talent, including the historic season from Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts’ impactful return in mid-August, Rojas’ contributions have often gone unnoticed. His consistent performance has added depth to the Dodgers, reinforcing the importance of every player on the roster as they approach the playoffs.
As the team gears up for the postseason, the focus will remain on health and readiness, with Roberts emphasizing the importance of having all key players available. The anticipation builds as the Dodgers prepare for their playoff run, with the hope that both Freeman and Rojas will be in top form when the time comes to face their first playoff opponents.