Tommy Edman’s Return to the Dodgers: A Timeline of Injuries, Setbacks, and Hope

Tommy Edman’s journey back to the Los Angeles Dodgers has been anything but straightforward. Acquired in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals during the 2024 season, Edman was expected to bolster the Dodgers’ infield and outfield depth. However, a series of injuries, including a wrist surgery and subsequent ankle issue, have delayed his return to the field.

In July 2024, the Dodgers traded for Tommy Edman, a versatile switch-hitter known for his Gold Glove-caliber defense. At the time of the trade, Edman was recovering from offseason right wrist surgery. Despite this, the Dodgers were optimistic about his potential impact. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that Edman would primarily play center field, with occasional appearances at shortstop and second base .

Edman made his debut with the Dodgers in August 2024. In 37 regular-season games, he batted .237 with six home runs and 20 RBIs. His postseason performance was even more impressive, earning him the NLCS MVP after hitting .407 with a home run and 11 RBIs .

Following the 2024 season, Edman underwent surgery to address lingering issues with his right wrist. Initially, the expectation was that he would be ready for the start of the 2025 season. However, recovery proved more challenging than anticipated. Edman experienced persistent inflammation and swelling, leading to multiple setbacks during Spring Training. He was ruled out for Opening Day and placed on the injured list .

Despite these challenges, Edman remained focused on his recovery, emphasizing the importance of taking the necessary time to heal properly. He expressed his frustration with the extended downtime but remained committed to returning to the field when fully ready .

As Edman was progressing in his wrist rehabilitation, he suffered an ankle injury during his rehab assignments. This unexpected setback further delayed his return. The Dodgers placed him on the 10-day injured list on May 3, 2025, due to right ankle inflammation .

Manager Dave Roberts indicated that Edman would likely not rejoin the team until their series on artificial turf in Arizona concludes, suggesting that the team is being cautious with his recovery .

As of mid-May 2025, Tommy Edman remains on the injured list, with no definitive timeline for his return. The Dodgers continue to monitor his progress, balancing the need for his defensive versatility and offensive contributions with the necessity of a full recovery.

In the meantime, other players have stepped up to fill the void. Hyeseong Kim and James Outman have been filling in during Edman’s absence, with Kim showcasing his versatility and speed, and Outman providing power despite high strikeout rates .

The Dodgers remain hopeful that Edman will return to form and contribute significantly to the team’s success as the season progresses.

Tommy Edman’s journey back to the Dodgers has been marked by unexpected challenges and setbacks. From offseason wrist surgery to an unforeseen ankle injury, his path to recovery has been anything but linear. However, his resilience and commitment to returning to the field demonstrate his dedication to the team. The Dodgers, while navigating these challenges, continue to support Edman’s recovery, understanding the value he brings both defensively and offensively. As the season unfolds, fans and teammates alike remain hopeful for Edman’s return and the impact he can have on the Dodgers’ pursuit of success.