Dodgers Welcome Shohei Ohtani: Eddie Rosario Designated for Assignment – What This Means for the Team

The Dodgers made a significant roster move by designating outfielder Eddie Rosario for assignment. This decision opens up space for Shohei Ohtani, who just returned from paternity leave after welcoming his daughter. Ohtani shared the happy news on social media.

Rosario, now 33, had a promising career that began with the Minnesota Twins. He played 11 seasons in MLB, showcasing solid performance in his early years. For example, from 2017 to 2020, Rosario had a batting average of .277 and consistently hit around 25 home runs each year. His low strikeout rate during that time made him a valuable asset.

However, Rosario’s performance has been inconsistent in recent years. Since 2021, he played for the Cleveland Guardians, Atlanta Braves, and the Washington Nationals. His overall batting average has dipped to .231, and his power has diminished. Notably, he struggled in 2022 due to vision issues that have since been corrected. In 2024, despite being healthy, he experienced another slump.

After signing a minor league deal with the Dodgers this off-season, Rosario faced tough competition for a spot in the lineup. He was briefly called up to replace Ohtani but hit just .250 in his two games. The Dodgers have a week to decide his fate—either trade him or place him on waivers. If he goes unclaimed, Rosario might choose to return to Triple-A or seek opportunities elsewhere.

On the flip side, Ohtani’s return is much anticipated. In his absence, the Dodgers suffered a tough loss against the Texas Rangers. Before going on leave, Ohtani was performing exceptionally well, boasting a .288 batting average along with six home runs and five stolen bases. His comeback will bolster the Dodgers’ lineup, as fans expect him to continue his impressive form.

In the context of MLB trends, roster changes like this are quite common. In recent years, teams have prioritized flexibility and depth, leading to more frequent trades and player assignments as they balance performance with emerging talent. For example, a study from the Sports Business Journal indicated a significant increase in player movement during the last five seasons, highlighting how crucial strategic roster management has become in today’s game.

As the Dodgers navigate these changes, fans remain hopeful that Ohtani’s return will spark a turnaround in their season.



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