Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Miguel Rojas left Saturday, June 13’s game against the Chicago White Sox early after being checked by the trainer during an at-bat in the seventh inning. Santiago Espinal took over as pinch runner and replaced Rojas at second base
The seventh inning was already underway when Miguel Rojas was checked out on the field—then, as the at-bat ended and he drew a walk, he didn’t return. He left Saturday, June 13’s game against the Chicago White Sox early after the trainer evaluated him.
Once Rojas was out, Santiago Espinal stepped in immediately. Espinal took over as the pinch runner and also replaced Rojas at second base.
For the Dodgers. it’s the kind of moment their infield depth is built for—Rojas may be the one who exits. but the roles don’t pause. Rojas has been a trusted member of manager Dave Roberts’ infield platoon. getting regular starts against left-handed pitchers and earning pinch-hit chances as well. He also figures into the team’s flexibility across positions; he has filled in at second base for most of his time. with appearances at shortstop when Mookie Betts suffered his injury.
Rojas’ production this season is part of why his absence lands with weight. He is hitting .260 on the season with a .659 OPS, with one home run and 11 RBIs. Beyond the numbers. the Dodgers have relied on what he brings defensively and off the field—stellar defensive play and leadership in the clubhouse.
It also turns the spotlight toward who can absorb the sudden change if Rojas needs time. The Dodgers have several options in their organization. Alex Freeland can take over full-time duties. while Hyeseong Kim can be called up if an IL stint opens the door. Espinal. meanwhile. can play literally any infield position and do so effectively. which makes him a natural fit in a pinch role that can quickly become a longer assignment.
And if the schedule gives the Dodgers a bit of timing luck, Tommy Edman is set to be activated soon—described here as coming at a perfect time if Rojas needs rest.
Still. even with a capable bench and multiple pathways to the starting lineup. Rojas’ absence can’t be treated as routine. His leadership. his defense. and the way Roberts has leaned on him as a consistent piece of the infield platoon are exactly the reasons this early exit doesn’t just change a lineup card. It changes how the Dodgers have to manage the rest of the week.
Miguel Rojas Los Angeles Dodgers Chicago White Sox Dave Roberts Santiago Espinal injury update infield platoon Tommy Edman Hyeseong Kim Alex Freeland