Dodgers Add Versatile Infielder Ryan Fitzgerald to Bolster Depth

The Los Angeles Dodgers continue to strengthen their roster, claiming infielder Ryan Fitzgerald off waivers from the Minnesota Twins, according to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez. Fitzgerald was recently designated for assignment by Minnesota after struggling in his rookie MLB season. While his time in the majors was brief, the Dodgers are intrigued by his potential and versatility.

Fitzgerald made his big league debut in 2025, appearing in 24 games for the Twins. He hit .196 with four home runs, nine RBIs, and one stolen base, numbers that were not enough to secure a permanent spot on Minnesota’s roster. His inconsistency at the plate ultimately led to the DFA, but scouts see room for development.

Despite his struggles in the majors, Fitzgerald’s minor league track record is more promising. Over 708 career games in the minors, he compiled a .258 batting average with 76 home runs, 378 RBIs, and 45 stolen bases. In 2025, across 59 games at Triple-A, he hit .277 with seven home runs, 31 RBIs, and five stolen bases, demonstrating growth and adaptability.

The Dodgers see Fitzgerald as a low-risk addition who can provide depth and flexibility. With the team already stacked with stars like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, Fitzgerald is expected to start the season in Triple-A but could be called up if the need arises.

1. Minor League Success and Potential

Fitzgerald’s performance in the minors has drawn attention from teams like the Dodgers despite his struggles in the majors. His consistent hitting and ability to produce extra-base hits highlight his offensive potential. Over his professional career, Fitzgerald has shown the ability to contribute in multiple ways, including power, contact hitting, and base running. His minor league stats suggest he could develop into a reliable role player at the major league level if given consistent opportunities. His strong 2025 Triple-A season in particular, hitting .277 with seven home runs and 31 RBIs, signals a player capable of making adjustments and improving against higher-level pitching. The Dodgers likely view him as someone who can continue to refine his game in a low-pressure environment. Adding a player with Fitzgerald’s minor league track record gives Los Angeles insurance in case of injuries or slumps among their everyday infielders, providing a safety net without taking a roster spot away from established stars.

2. Defensive Versatility

One of Fitzgerald’s most valuable attributes is his defensive versatility. Throughout his professional career, he has played every position except catcher, making him a true utility player. While he will primarily be used as a middle infielder, his ability to cover multiple positions allows the Dodgers to rotate him across the diamond as needed. This flexibility is especially valuable for a team chasing a deep postseason run where roster flexibility can make a difference. Versatile players like Fitzgerald give managers the freedom to rest key starters, cover for injuries, or make strategic in-game moves. For a team like Los Angeles, already rich with offensive talent, the ability to mix and match players without compromising defensive quality is a significant advantage. The Dodgers have a history of maximizing the value of utility players, and Fitzgerald could become a key piece in that approach, contributing both in the field and at the plate when opportunities arise.

3. Role in the Dodgers’ Offseason Plans

Fitzgerald’s addition may not dominate headlines, but it reflects the Dodgers’ broader strategy of finding talent and depth wherever possible. In an offseason focused on maintaining championship-caliber depth, claiming him off waivers is a low-risk, high-upside move. He is expected to start the 2026 season in Triple-A, refining his skills while awaiting a potential call-up. With the Dodgers’ core in place, Fitzgerald represents insurance rather than an immediate star contributor. If injuries or slumps occur among Betts, Freeman, or other infielders, Fitzgerald could quickly become a key contributor. His combination of minor league success, defensive flexibility, and power potential makes him an ideal candidate for situational use at the MLB level. Ultimately, the move underscores the Dodgers’ commitment to keeping their roster deep and competitive, ensuring they have options to weather the inevitable challenges of a long season and pursue another World Series title.