Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Santiago Espinal signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers and earned a spot on the Opening Day roster after a strong spring training. However, he has struggled significantly through the first month-and-a-half of the 2026 regular season, batting .200 with limited opportunities. The Dodgers restructured his contract to extend the deadline for releasing him without paying the remainder of his salary. Despite the struggles, Espinal hit his first home run of the season on May 14 against the Giants. He remains on the roster as a right-handed utility option and bench player, though his future with the team is uncertain pending the return of Kiké Hernández from the 60-day injured list on May 24.
Strengths
- + Strong spring training performance that earned Opening Day roster spot
- + Hit first home run of the season on May 14 against the Giants
- + Retained on roster despite struggles and contract restructuring
- + Provides right-handed option off the bench
- + Can start against left-handed pitchers
Weaknesses
- - Batting only .200 through first month-and-a-half of season
- - Disastrous strikeout in ninth inning against Astros on May 5 with tying run on base
- - Struggled significantly in regular season after strong spring training
- - Limited playing time and role as bench player
- - Contract restructured with extended release deadline, indicating front office concerns
- - Roster spot in jeopardy once Kiké Hernández becomes eligible to return on May 24
- - Out of minor league options, would need to be designated for assignment if released
About
Ewry Espinal is a first baseman for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
1B
Chicago Cubs