Dodgers Unfortunate Injury Update Puts Outfield Plans in Doubt for Postseason

The Los Angeles Dodgers have received an unfortunate injury update as utility man Tommy Edman revealed he is unlikely to return to the outfield during the postseason due to a lingering ankle issue. The update comes at a crucial time for the team as they continue their playoff push, with Edman’s role and positioning now under close watch.

Edman has been battling an ankle injury for much of the season, initially spraining it in late April. Although he returned after a stint on the injured list, he re-aggravated the injury in August, forcing him out for another month. As the Dodgers push deeper into October, the injury continues to shape the team’s strategy.

Tommy Edman Injury Update: Dodgers Star Facing Positional Limitations

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts opted to rest Edman for three of the team’s final four regular-season games and shifted him from center field back to second base to reduce the strain on his ankle. When asked about a potential return to the outfield, Edman offered a cautious outlook.

“That’s kind of just a coaching decision, I guess, but I haven’t really taken any reps out there yet,” Edman said. “Maybe as we get farther on in the postseason, as the ankle starts to feel better, I’ll maybe try to get out there. But at least for now, probably not.”

Despite his absence from the outfield, Edman assured fans that his recovery is progressing well. “I think it’s definitely getting better,” he noted. “It didn’t feel great at the end of the year, but having a couple days off in Seattle definitely helped it recover. It’s definitely at a point where it’s manageable now.”

Edman has appeared in four of the Dodgers’ five postseason games so far, delivering key performances at the plate. He homered in the opening playoff game against the Cincinnati Reds and added another long ball in Game 3 of the NLDS against the Philadelphia Phillies. His .934 OPS through the playoffs marks the highest of his postseason career when playing at least two games, highlighting his continued impact despite the injury.

The 29-year-old’s move back to second base has also been a defensive boost. Edman has maintained a perfect fielding percentage through 30 innings at the position during the postseason, and he committed just one error across 525.1 regular-season innings at second base. His versatility remains a valuable asset for Los Angeles, even if his outfield return is delayed.

What It Means for the Dodgers’ Postseason Push

Edman’s limited availability in the outfield presents both challenges and opportunities for the Dodgers. While his defensive flexibility is reduced, his offensive contributions and reliability at second base have strengthened the team’s infield. Manager Dave Roberts may continue to rely on depth options in the outfield while Edman focuses on what he does best in the infield.

The Dodgers’ postseason run has already featured lineup adjustments due to injuries and performance concerns, including scrutiny over Shohei Ohtani’s struggles and updates on reliever Tanner Scott. Edman’s situation adds another layer of complexity, but his improving condition offers optimism for potential positional flexibility later in the playoffs.

As the Dodgers chase another World Series appearance, Edman’s health remains a storyline to watch. His current role at second base keeps him impactful, but a fully recovered Edman could become an even greater postseason weapon if he returns to the outfield later in October.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Dodgers unfortunate injury update?

Tommy Edman is unlikely to return to the outfield during the postseason due to a lingering ankle injury, though he remains productive at second base.

Q2: Will Tommy Edman play in the outfield again this postseason?

It’s unlikely for now, but Edman said he may consider a return if his ankle improves deeper into the playoffs.

Q3: How is Tommy Edman performing despite the injury?

Edman has hit two postseason home runs and carries a .934 OPS, the best of his playoff career with at least two games played.

Q4: How does Edman’s injury affect the Dodgers’ defense?

His shift to second base has improved infield defense, where he has a perfect postseason fielding record so far.

Q5: Could Edman’s role change as the postseason continues?

Yes, if his ankle continues to heal, he might return to the outfield in later rounds, offering more flexibility for the Dodgers.