Dodgers Who Won’t Be Ready by Opening Day

The Los Angeles Dodgers may have the deepest 40-man roster in the history of their franchise in 2026. There is no doubt this is a good thing because a pitch is yet to be thrown this season, and the versatility and strength of the team are already being tested. Several players will be on the shelf when the calendar lands on Opening Day. Here is a brief rundown of each situation.

In No Hurry

Despite the optimism expressed a couple of weeks ago, Tommy Edman will not be ready for Opening Day. Edman, who had ankle surgery shortly after last season, will not be ready for the first game in late March. The surgery he underwent seems to be extensive, as he had to repair an ankle that had hobbled Edman for more than two years, including before he became a Dodger. It sounds like it could be at least late-May or early-June before we see Edman. This development sets up an interesting position battle at second base with as many as five players vying for playing time.

Super-utility Man on the Shelf

Enrique Hernandez was signed last week and promptly put on the 60-day Injured List. A fan-favorite, Hernandez has made himself indispensable. He has been featured at every position on the diamond except catcher, and thrives when the season turns to October. Hernandez injured his elbow last May, but avoided surgery until the season’s end. He appears to be recovering nicely, but the Dodgers have not released a timeline for his return.

High-Leverage Relief Options

Right-handers Brusdar Graterol and Evan Phillips are both in camp and have progressed to long toss. However, it could be some time before we see them in games that matter. Graterol has had a hard time staying healthy the past couple of seasons. Undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery in the middle of 2024. Although the Dodgers were hoping he would be available late in 2025.  They were short right-handed bullpen options, but it wasn’t to be. Graterol arrived at Spring Training at least 20 pounds lighter. This bodes well when he toes the rubber. However, Dave Roberts doesn’t like the way the ball “is coming out of his hand.” Roberts added that the velocity is “not where it needs to be.”