Dodgers Set Tommy Edman Return Plan After Lengthy Injury Rehabilitation

The Los Angeles Dodgers are finally welcoming back one of their most valuable utility players after a lengthy absence. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Tommy Edman is set to rejoin the active roster and return to the lineup after completing his rehabilitation process.

Edman’s return comes after he missed the entire 2026 regular season while recovering from right ankle surgery. The procedure repaired a ligament issue and addressed bone spurs, forcing the Dodgers to take a cautious approach before bringing him back into competitive action.

After completing an 11-game rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City, Edman is ready to contribute again. His return provides Los Angeles with another experienced switch-hitter who can impact the game in multiple ways.

The timing is especially important for the Dodgers, who remain one of the top teams in baseball. With the team managing injuries, workloads, and a demanding schedule, adding Edman back into the roster gives Roberts another tool for building lineups and creating matchup advantages.

1. Edman’s Road Back To The Lineup

Edman’s absence lasted 74 games, making his return a significant moment for the Dodgers. The team carefully managed his recovery process to ensure he was physically prepared before returning to major league competition. Rather than rushing him back, Los Angeles allowed Edman to rebuild his timing and confidence through his rehab assignment. The extended preparation was designed to help him regain comfort at the plate and stability defensively after the ankle surgery. The Dodgers now expect Edman to immediately become part of the regular rotation rather than serving only as a backup option. His ability to play multiple positions makes him valuable in a roster filled with talented players who need rest throughout a long season. For Edman, the goal will be finding consistency while adjusting back to the speed of major league baseball. His versatility and experience should help ease that transition as the Dodgers continue competing at a high level.

2. Versatility Adds Depth For Dodgers

Roberts plans to use Edman in several different roles once he returns. The veteran infielder is expected to see time at second base, third base, and left field, allowing the Dodgers to maximize his defensive flexibility. That versatility is one of Edman’s biggest strengths. Instead of limiting him to one position, Los Angeles can use him depending on matchups, injuries, and rest needs throughout the season. His switch-hitting ability also gives the Dodgers another offensive option, particularly against certain pitching matchups. Having a player who can contribute from both sides of the plate adds another layer to an already deep lineup. The return of Edman gives Los Angeles more freedom with roster management. The team can rotate players more effectively while maintaining strong defensive coverage and offensive balance during the second half of the season.

3. Dodgers Face Roster Decisions

While Edman’s return is positive news, it creates another challenge for the Dodgers. The team must make adjustments to both the active roster and the 40-man roster to officially add him back. Those decisions could impact several players competing for roster space. Names such as Kiké Hernández, Alex Freeland, and Santiago Espinal could become part of the discussion as Los Angeles determines the best way to balance its roster. The Dodgers entered this stretch of the season with an impressive record and a strong position in the National League West. With Edman returning, the team gains another experienced player who can help maintain that advantage. At 31 years old, Edman brings a combination of defense, versatility, and postseason experience that fits the Dodgers’ approach. His return gives Roberts another way to manage matchups, protect players from overuse, and keep the roster prepared for a long playoff run.