The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a series win over the Washington Nationals on Saturday, thanks to Tommy Edman’s contributions on both sides of the ball.
The utility man got the start in center field and showed off his defensive skills when he made an impressive leaping catch at the wall to begin the top of the fifth inning. Then in the bottom of the seventh, Edman hit a go-ahead three-run homer to give the Dodgers a 5-4 lead.
The 31-year-old’s ability to play all over the field has always been valuable to the Dodgers, but even more so lately with Shohei Ohtani and Andy Pages sidelined.
“A lot,” Edman answered when asked how much pride he takes in his defensive versatility. “It’s definitely something that makes me valuable to the team, especially as we get to the later parts of the year when some guys get banged up.
“Obviously losing Andy is a huge loss, so I take pride in being able to fill that role a little bit. I’m definitely not completely filling the role that Andy left behind, but just trying to do my best. I think that’s something that’s really important to any championship team.”
With Ohtani missing the last three games due to left knee soreness, right bicep discomfort and neck trouble, Edman has been getting opportunities as the leadoff hitter in the Dodgers lineup. Despite the new role, he hasn’t changed his approach at the plate.
“Not really,” Edman began. “Regardless, I’m just trying to get on base, have good, productive at-bats, grind out some ABs. If slug comes, it’s not something I’m necessarily trying to do. I’m more just trying to get on base than anything.”
Edman has gone 5-for-13 (.385) with one double, one home run and three RBI since becoming the Dodgers’ leadoff hitter. He has been swinging a hot bat in general, hitting .280/.365/.453 with four doubles, three home runs and 10 RBI over his last 19 games dating back to Aug. 14.
Dave Roberts praises Tommy Edman
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts lauded Edman for his ability to impact a game with his glove and bat.
“He’s a heck of a ballplayer,” Roberts said. “You can put him anywhere on the diamond, makes plays defensively, takes good at-bats, has the knack for the big hit. He’s playing his tail off. Obviously when you don’t have Shohei in there, to put Tommy in there, and to still be productive, it’s great.”
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