![\"Miguel](\"https:\/\/dodgersnation.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/USATSI_24479183_168396005_lowres.jpg\")
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The Los Angeles Dodgers<\/span><\/span> have begun the 2026 season with a flexible approach at second base, carefully managing rotations while awaiting the return of Tommy Edman from the injured list.<\/strong><\/p>\n This temporary platoon strategy reflects both depth and caution, as the Dodgers aim to maintain consistency without rushing a key contributor back into action before he is fully ready.<\/strong><\/p>\n However, Opening Day presented an unexpected twist, as veteran infielder Miguel Rojas<\/span><\/span> was included in the starting lineup despite a matchup that did not traditionally favor him.<\/strong><\/p>\n Facing the Arizona Diamondbacks<\/span><\/span> and their ace Zac Gallen<\/span><\/span>, the decision to start Rojas raised eyebrows given his historical tendencies against right-handed pitching.<\/strong><\/p>\n The following night brought another adjustment, with Alex Freeland stepping into the lineup at second base against right-hander Ryne Nelson<\/span><\/span>, reinforcing the Dodgers\u2019 willingness to experiment early.<\/strong><\/p>\n Behind these lineup choices lies not only strategic reasoning but also a deeply human element, as Rojas navigates what he has openly acknowledged will be the final season of his career.<\/strong><\/p>\n The emotional weight of that realization became evident as Rojas admitted he struggled to contain his feelings leading up to Opening Day, describing moments of overwhelming reflection and gratitude.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cI couldn\u2019t stop crying yesterday and this morning,\u201d Rojas shared, revealing the personal significance of stepping onto the field for what he called his \u201clast dance\u201d in Major League Baseball.<\/strong><\/p>\n While sentiment undoubtedly played a role, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts<\/span><\/span> made it clear that the decision to start Rojas was grounded in performance rather than purely ceremonial considerations.<\/strong><\/p>\n Rojas had delivered an impressive Spring Training campaign, showcasing improved offensive production and demonstrating a level of readiness that justified his inclusion in the lineup.<\/strong><\/p>\n Notably, his performance during Cactus League play included strong results against right-handed pitching, a reversal of his typical career splits that added a new dimension to his profile.<\/strong><\/p>\n In 31 at-bats against right-handers, Rojas posted a remarkable slash line of .387\/.406\/.484, complemented by one home run, three RBIs, and six walks, signaling a refined approach at the plate.<\/strong><\/p>\n Although his overall career numbers still indicate slightly better production against left-handed pitchers, the margin between splits has narrowed enough to make him a viable option in more scenarios.<\/strong><\/p>\n During the game itself, Rojas recorded a single hit, but its timing proved impactful, as his fifth-inning base knock helped set the stage for a scoring opportunity.<\/strong><\/p>\n Following his hit, Shohei Ohtani<\/span><\/span> drew a walk, and the sequence ultimately culminated in a run driven in by Will Smith<\/span><\/span> on an infield play.<\/strong><\/p>\n Such contributions, while not always headline-grabbing, highlight the subtle ways veteran players can influence game flow and create momentum for their team.<\/strong><\/p>\n Rojas continued to make his presence felt in the series finale, returning to second base and delivering a perfect 2-for-2 performance before being replaced by Freeland as part of a strategic substitution<\/strong><\/p>\n .<\/strong><\/p>\n At 37 years old, Rojas represents both experience and adaptability, qualities that remain valuable even as the Dodgers transition toward a more dynamic and evolving roster structure.<\/strong><\/p>\n Once Edman returns from the injured list, Rojas is expected to shift into a more traditional utility role, providing defensive flexibility and situational depth across the infield.<\/strong><\/p>\n However, given the Dodgers\u2019 cautious approach to player health, particularly early in the season, Rojas could still see meaningful playing time at second base depending on how Edman is reintegrated.<\/strong><\/p>\n Beyond his on-field contributions, Rojas also found himself part of a lighter moment during Opening Day festivities, participating in a ceremonial skit alongside Freddie Freeman<\/span><\/span> and actor Will Ferrell<\/span><\/span>.<\/strong><\/p>\n The segment featured the players retrieving World Series trophies from Ferrell in a batting cage before being escorted onto the field, blending entertainment with celebration in a uniquely Dodgers fashion.<\/strong><\/p>\n While the skit added charm to the event, it also opened the door for some playful criticism from teammate Mookie Betts<\/span><\/span>, who humorously evaluated their acting abilities.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cFreddie and Miggy, it was rough,\u201d Betts joked, adding that while they did a decent job, they might benefit from a few acting classes to sharpen their performance skills.<\/strong><\/p>\n Moments like these offer a glimpse into the clubhouse chemistry that often underpins successful teams, revealing a balance between professionalism and camaraderie.<\/strong><\/p>\n For Rojas, the combination of emotional reflection, competitive contribution, and lighthearted interaction encapsulates the multifaceted nature of his final season.<\/strong><\/p>\n As the Dodgers continue their campaign, his role may evolve, but his presence remains a steady and meaningful component of the team\u2019s identity.<\/strong><\/p>\n In a season defined by both ambition and transition, Rojas stands as a reminder that baseball is not only about results, but also about the journeys and stories that unfold along the way.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The Los Angeles Dodgers have begun the 2026 season with a flexible approach at second base, carefully managing rotations while awaiting the return of Tommy Edman from… <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":170580,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-170576","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-mlb"],"yoast_head":"\n![\"Miguel](\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_fill,w_1200,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images\/ImagnImages\/mmsport\/inside_the_dodgers\/01kmw31hrxckqqxjjwb3.jpg\")
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