Miguel Rojas was in the leadoff spot of the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup for Sunday’s game against the Chicago Cubs, but he was removed in the bottom of the third inning due to a right foot cramp.
Rojas pulled a two-out single into left field but limped out of the batter’s box and was replaced by pinch-runner Yonny Hernández. Rojas gingerly walked off the field with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts but didn’t give much indication over his potential injury.
The Dodgers acquired Rojas from the Miami Marlins in a trade for prospect Jacob Amaya, and envision him playing a utility role this season.
“I do expect him to play some third base,” Roberts said before the game at Camelback Ranch. I expect him to play some short, some second, and potentially even first base.
“I just think for me, the challenge that I want for myself is to make sure I keep him relevant. He’s already got an openness just to be on the baseball field and help in any way. Now it’s up to me to figure out how I can give guys a day off to keep Miguel involved. Because I do think he’s very additive.”
Rojas potentially could be an emergency option in left field as well.
“I don’t see any downside to him taking fly balls out there,” Roberts said. “Things change all the time, so for him to get comfortable out there doesn’t hurt.”
Rojas had become the everyday shortstop for the Marlins but is embracing the bench role the Dodgers have outlined.
Dodgers sign Miguel Rojas to contract extension
Shortly after completing their trade with the Marlins, the Dodgers signed Rojas to a one-year, $6 million contract extension through the 2024 season.
The deal includes a $5 million team option or $1 million buyout for 2025, along with charitable contributions.
Rojas had been on track to become a free agent after the 2023 season.
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