After filling a starting role at shortstop over parts of the last two years, Miguel Rojas has seen his playing time with the Los Angeles Dodgers significantly reduce this season.
The veteran has appeared in 52 games (30 starts) thus far, receiving most of his reps at second base. He has also played shortstop and third base, in addition to making three pitching appearances.
Rojas acknowledged in Spring Training that he would likely have fewer opportunities this year, but continues to stay prepared for when his name is called.
“Just kind of staying true to myself and continuing to work every single day,” Rojas recently reiterated. “I know it’s a long season, and you’re going to receive more opportunities to contribute, and it’s nice to finally get one game like this where you feel part of it, and not just defensively or anything like that, but doing what you’re supposed to do against left-handed pitching.
“That’s what I’m here for. I’ve been receiving every opportunity to play against lefties. So just made a couple adjustments in the cage while I wasn’t playing, and I’m always going to keep working hard to find a way to contribute some point.”
Rojas struggled over the first two months of the season, but bounced back in June by hitting .348/.423/.696 with two doubles, two home runs and four RBI across 14 games (six starts).
“Not really,” Rojas said when asked if something specific had clicked for him. “It’s just really hard to come off the bench. We had four lefties the whole month. Even though you always want to be there and show up whenever you have the opportunity to play against a lefty, it’s hard to get in rhythm and sometimes you just have to wait for the good wave.
“With the track record, you know the season is not over after one month, and don’t jump into conclusions that you can’t do it anymore, or anything like that. Just stay true to yourself and believe in myself.”
Miguel Rojas part of Dodgers’ 3B plan
Rojas started at second base in the Dodgers’ series finale against the Kansas City Royals last weekend, but suffered a scare when he slid into second base and injured the ring finger on his left hand.
Rojas initially remained in the game but came out in the bottom of the eighth inning. Afterward, the 36-year-old revealed he only sustained a jammed finger and avoided a more serious injury.
That’s now of particular benefit for the Dodgers as Rojas is among the players they are planning to rely on at third base while Max Muncy recovers from a bone bruise in his left knee.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
