Tommy Edman’s Journey to the Los Angeles Dodgers: Delayed Return

Tommy Edman, a versatile infielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, has seen his stock rise steadily over the years in Major League Baseball (MLB) due to his consistency, defensive flexibility, and overall utility. Known for his ability to play multiple positions, including second base, shortstop, and even some outfield, Edman is an important piece of any roster. While his career has largely been in St. Louis, rumors had circulated about the possibility of him joining the Los Angeles Dodgers in recent years.

However, Edman’s potential return to the Dodgers has been delayed longer than initially expected, sparking some discussion among fans, analysts, and front-office executives alike. This article will explore the reasons behind this delay, delve into Edman’s career thus far, and discuss how his absence impacts both the Dodgers and his development as a player.

Tommy Edman made his MLB debut with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2019, and his performance quickly caught the attention of baseball enthusiasts. Edman was drafted by the Cardinals in the sixth round of the 2016 MLB Draft out of Stanford University, where he was known for his strong defense and offensive potential.

What truly stood out about Edman early in his career was his positional flexibility. While many players are restricted to one primary position, Edman proved to be invaluable to the Cardinals as a multi-positional player. This versatility allowed him to fill in at second base, shortstop, and even the outfield, a trait that made him even more attractive to teams looking for a player who could contribute in several roles.

In his first full season with the Cardinals in 2020, Edman posted an impressive .350 on-base percentage and showcased his excellent defense. While his power numbers were not eye-popping, he was known for his contact skills and ability to get on base, factors that made him a key contributor in the Cardinals’ lineup.

Edman’s defense has always been one of his standout traits. Whether he’s patrolling second base or filling in at shortstop, Edman’s range and ability to turn double plays are critical elements of his overall value. His defensive prowess has earned him a reputation as one of the best in the game at several positions, which is particularly valuable in today’s MLB, where teams prioritize versatility in their roster construction.

In 2021, Edman’s defensive statistics remained solid, with the infielder posting a solid 5.2 defensive WAR, indicating his importance in the field. These traits have continued to make him a highly sought-after player, not just by the Cardinals but by other teams as well, such as the Dodgers, who are always looking to improve their roster.

The Dodgers have long been a dominant force in Major League Baseball, boasting one of the deepest rosters in the game. However, like every team, the Dodgers have been faced with challenges, particularly in the form of injuries to key players and evolving roster needs.

As of the last few seasons, the Dodgers’ infield has been one of their strengths, but that doesn’t mean they haven’t faced their share of issues. Players like Max Muncy, Justin Turner, and Gavin Lux have been crucial to the Dodgers’ success, but injuries have periodically disrupted their stability. This has led the Dodgers to look for versatile players who can step in at multiple positions and provide stability when other key players are unavailable.

Tommy Edman fits this mold perfectly. A switch-hitter with solid contact skills, Edman could have slotted into several roles with the Dodgers. Whether it was filling in at second base or providing depth at shortstop, Edman would have bolstered an already talented team. His defensive acumen would have also given the Dodgers added flexibility, allowing them to maintain a high level of defensive performance even in the absence of their regular starters.

When rumors first circulated about Edman’s potential departure from the Cardinals, many assumed that he would be traded to the Dodgers or another contending team. The initial hope was that Edman’s return to a competitive environment could lead to a seamless transition into the Dodgers’ lineup, and his return would have been sooner than expected.

However, as the months have gone by, this timeline has shifted, and Edman’s return has been delayed. The reasons for this delay are multifaceted, but the most significant factor is his injury history. Like many players in MLB, Edman has battled through his share of injuries over the years, with the most notable being a nagging hamstring issue that kept him out of action during the 2024 season.

The hamstring injury that Edman suffered has had a significant impact on his recovery process. Hamstring injuries can be tricky for players, as they often require time and rest to fully heal. For a player like Edman, who relies on his speed and agility to play elite defense and make plays on the basepaths, a hamstring injury can be particularly detrimental.

Initially, the expectation was that Edman would return to full health relatively quickly, but as time has gone on, it became clear that this recovery would take longer than anticipated. The Dodgers, who had been hopeful for a midseason return, have now adjusted their expectations accordingly. It’s likely that they will err on the side of caution in terms of Edman’s rehab, ensuring that he’s fully healthy before rejoining the team.

This delay has forced the Dodgers to reconsider their immediate needs in the infield and how they can balance their roster with or without Edman in the mix. While their other players like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Chris Taylor have been stepping up, there’s no doubt that Edman would have provided valuable depth and versatility.

One of the benefits the Dodgers have is their depth. Even without Edman, the team still possesses a wealth of talent, particularly in the infield. Players like Miguel Vargas and Mookie Betts have taken on larger roles in the absence of Edman and other injured players, and Los Angeles has seen significant contributions from both.

The Dodgers also have a rich farm system, with prospects like Gavin Stone and others capable of stepping up and making an impact when needed. However, while this depth has been crucial, there’s no denying that Edman would have been an asset to the team. His ability to seamlessly transition between multiple positions would have provided the Dodgers with even more flexibility, particularly in a grueling 162-game season.

Moreover, with Edman’s return delayed, it gives the Dodgers more time to evaluate other roster moves and potential upgrades. They may look into trading for a similar player or bringing up another prospect to fill in for Edman’s expected role.

For Tommy Edman, the delayed return to the Dodgers also has implications for his career trajectory. After his injury, there was concern that he would miss out on valuable playing time, which is especially crucial in the prime years of his career.

Edman, at 28 years old, is entering his prime, and a prolonged absence from the field could hinder his development. The positive side, however, is that he has a long career ahead of him, and if his recovery from the hamstring injury is managed carefully, it could allow him to perform at his highest level for many years to come.

Furthermore, his eventual return to the Dodgers—whenever that may be—could be a fresh start in a new environment, one that could ultimately be beneficial for his long-term success. Whether he returns as a regular contributor or a super-utility player, Edman will have the opportunity to build upon his solid foundation in St. Louis and continue to improve his game.

Tommy Edman’s delayed return to the Dodgers may have been disappointing for both the team and fans, but the situation is not without hope. His versatility and defensive ability make him a valuable asset for any team, and once fully healthy, Edman will likely continue to be an integral part of the Dodgers’ roster.

While the setback of his hamstring injury may have caused his timeline to shift, it has also highlighted the importance of patience in player recovery. The Dodgers, with their impressive depth and commitment to player development, will be prepared to incorporate Edman into their lineup when the time is right. Whether it’s providing elite defense or contributing offensively, Edman will be ready to make an impact once his return is no longer delayed.

For now, the Dodgers will have to make do without him, but in the long run, his eventual inclusion will undoubtedly help solidify their already deep and competitive roster.