The Los Angeles Dodgers enter the 2025 MLB season as clear favorites to defend their World Series title. However, the path to a repeat championship is far from guaranteed. A potential vulnerability lies in their middle infield, where the lack of a proven, consistent presence could prove costly.
Los Angeles Dodgers Tenuous Plan At Middle Infield
The Dodgers’ current plan involves Mookie Betts at shortstop and Tommy Edman at second base. While this arrangement seems viable on paper, its long-term sustainability hinges on the performance of their outfielders, Michael Conforto, Andy Pages, and James Outman. Outman’s significant regression in 2024, posting a minus-0.3 WAR after a stellar 2023, raises concerns. Should he fail to rebound, Edman might be required to return to center field, at least in a part-time capacity.
Betts is attempting to make the transition back to shortstop after playing the lion’s share of his professional career in the outfield. Compounding that he is coming off an illness that shed 15 pounds off his frame causing him to miss the Tokyo Series
The Dodgers did add Hyeseong Kim from South Korea, hoping he could solidify the middle infield. However, Kim will begin the season at Triple-A after struggling offensively during Cactus League play.
Despite this potential weakness, the Dodgers are undeniably in a strong position heading into 2025, possibly even stronger than their championship-winning team. Yet, the possibility of Betts or Edman returning to the outfield necessitates a more reliable option at either shortstop or second base. This lack of certainty in the middle infield creates a potential point of concern for the Dodgers’ championship aspirations.