🚨 SPRING TRAINING IS COMING: Dodgers Gear Up for 2026 Season with Key Roster Decisions 👇
Spring training for the Los Angeles Dodgers is just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable as they prepare for the 2026 season. In just 26 days, the Dodgers will face the Los Angeles Angels in their opening game of the spring. But before that, there are two critical dates on the calendar for fans and players alike.
First, pitchers and catchers will report to Camelback Ranch on February 13 for their first official workout of the season. Then, on February 17, the remainder of the squad will join them for the first full-team workout. As spring training gets underway, all eyes will be on how the team prepares for the upcoming season, particularly as they look to defend their 2025 World Series championship.
Core Members and New Faces in the Mix
The Dodgers’ roster is still brimming with many of the key contributors from their 2025 World Series triumph over the Toronto Blue Jays. However, there are a few new faces this year that will likely make an immediate impact. All-Stars Kyle Tucker and Edwin Diaz are the two biggest names set to make their first appearances in Dodger blue this season. Fans are eager to see these stars in action during spring training, as their additions are expected to elevate the team to even greater heights.
But beyond the new additions, several players are still fighting for a spot on the roster, hoping to earn a chance to make the Opening Day roster and contribute to the Dodgers’ pursuit of another title.
Who Can Make the Dodgers’ Opening Day Roster?
While the core of the team remains intact, there are a number of players looking to secure their place in the lineup and rotation for the start of the regular season.
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Alex Freeland and Hyeseong Kim are among the key players competing for a spot, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Tommy Edman’s status. If Edman is unavailable for the start of the season, either Freeland or Kim could be called upon to fill the hole at second base.
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Ryan Ward is another player looking to earn a spot on the team after a standout performance in Triple-A last season. However, with the addition of Tucker to the outfield, Ward may face stiff competition for a starting role. Additionally, Andy Pages and Teoscar Hernandez are expected to hold onto their spots, making it even more difficult for Ward to break into the starting lineup.
The Dodgers’ Bullpen Battle
The bullpen is another area where competition is fierce, with several spots still up for grabs. Ben Casparius, Will Klein, Justin Wrobleski, and others will be vying for a spot in the bullpen as the season begins. With the Dodgers’ bullpen being an essential part of their success in 2025, this competition will be critical in ensuring the team’s pitching depth remains strong heading into the regular season.
New Faces in the Starting Rotation
There may also be some changes to the starting rotation this year, with the additions of River Ryan and Gavin Stone expected to return from season-long injuries. Both pitchers have the potential to make a significant impact, and their return could provide a fresh boost to the Dodgers’ pitching staff. The starting rotation has always been one of the team’s strengths, and the addition of Ryan and Stone could make it even more formidable.
Plenty to Figure Out Before Opening Day
With just 26 days until spring training begins, the Dodgers have a lot to figure out before the 2026 regular season and their title defense. The decisions made over the next few weeks will shape the team’s roster, and ultimately, determine their chances of securing another championship.
The competition for spots will be fierce, and there’s no doubt that the players vying for a spot will be giving it their all during spring training. The Dodgers have the talent to be a contender once again, but it will take a well-balanced roster, depth across the lineup, and a strong bullpen to get them back to the top.
As the countdown to spring training continues, the Dodgers’ fans have much to look forward to—new faces, fierce competition, and the hope of another World Series title. With the clock ticking down, the 2026 season is shaping up to be one for the ages.