Los Angeles – The Los Angeles Dodgers are bolstering their outfield depth and navigating a key injury as they prepare for the 2026 Major League Baseball season. The defending World Series champions announced on Saturday, February 22nd, that they have claimed outfielder Jack Suwinski off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates. To build room for Suwinski on the 40-man roster, utility player Kiké Hernández has been placed on the 60-day injured list, according to reports from multiple sources including ETtoday and LTN.
The move for Suwinski, a 27-year-ancient outfielder, provides the Dodgers with additional flexibility in the outfield as they assess their options heading into spring training. Hernández’s placement on the 60-day IL clears a roster spot but likewise signals a potentially extended absence for the veteran infielder/outfielder, a key contributor to the Dodgers’ recent success. The Dodgers won the World Series in 2020, 2024, and 2025, with Hernández playing a significant role in all three championship runs.
Suwinski’s Potential and Dodgers’ Outfield Situation
Jack Suwinski has appeared in four Major League seasons, all with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Even as his overall career batting average sits at .199 with an on-base percentage of .305 and a slugging percentage of .389, he demonstrated significant power potential in 2023, hitting 26 home runs in 144 games. This power surge, yet, wasn’t sustained, and he was designated for assignment by the Pirates earlier this month. ETtoday reports that Suwinski is now subject to waivers, meaning he must make the Dodgers’ 26-man roster or risk being exposed to waivers again.
The Dodgers’ interest in Suwinski stems from a demand for outfield depth. The team’s current outfield situation is somewhat fluid, with Tommy Edman expected to begin the season on the injured list. Andy Pages is currently slated to be a starting outfielder, but the Dodgers lack significant depth behind him. Manager Dave Roberts has also indicated a willingness to explore the possibility of Mookie Betts playing center field, but that would require adjusting the team’s defensive alignment. Michael Siani, another outfielder on the 40-man roster, has shown defensive prowess but has yet to consistently demonstrate offensive capabilities at the major league level.
Suwinski’s experience in the outfield – having logged 1529.2 innings in center and right field – provides a valuable asset for the Dodgers. If he can recapture the form he displayed in 2023, he could grow a significant contributor to the team’s offense. The Dodgers will be closely evaluating his performance during spring training to determine his role on the roster.
Hernández’s Injury and Recovery Timeline
Kiké Hernández underwent surgery on his left elbow during the offseason and is expected to miss a significant portion of the 2026 season. The 60-day injured list designation confirms that he will be sidelined for at least two months, according to ETtoday. Hernández himself indicated in a podcast appearance that his recovery could seize up to two months, a timeline that aligns with the team’s decision to place him on the 60-day IL.
Hernández has been a fan favorite in Los Angeles, having previously played for the Dodgers from 2015 to 2020. He returned to the team in 2023 and quickly re-established himself as a valuable utility player, known for his clutch hitting and exceptional defensive versatility. His performance in the 2023 postseason, particularly his game-saving double play in Game 6 of the World Series, cemented his status as a key member of the Dodgers’ championship team. MSN highlights his continued importance to the Dodgers organization.
Contract Details and Team Strategy
Prior to the injury, Hernández signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the Dodgers, as reported by LINE TODAY. The Dodgers also re-signed Max Muncy during the offseason, further solidifying their infield depth. The team’s decision to place Hernández on the 60-day IL allows them flexibility in managing their roster and evaluating other players during spring training.
The Dodgers’ front office will be closely monitoring Hernández’s recovery progress and will likely provide updates as they become available. The team’s medical staff will perform closely with Hernández to ensure a safe and effective return to the field. The Dodgers are hoping to have Hernández back in the lineup as soon as possible, but they will not rush his recovery.
Looking Ahead: Dodgers’ Spring Training and Season Outlook
The Dodgers will begin spring training shortly, and the competition for roster spots will be fierce. Suwinski will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and compete for a role in the outfield. The Dodgers will be looking for him to demonstrate the power potential he displayed in 2023 and to prove that he can be a valuable asset to the team. The team will also be evaluating other outfield prospects and utility players to determine the best configuration for their roster.
Despite Hernández’s injury, the Dodgers remain a strong contender for the National League pennant and a repeat World Series championship. The team has a deep and talented roster, and they are well-managed by Dave Roberts. The Dodgers’ success will depend on their ability to stay healthy and to get consistent contributions from their key players. The next major update will likely come from the Dodgers’ official spring training reports, detailing player progress and potential lineup configurations. Fans can follow updates on the team’s official website and social media channels.
The Dodgers’ pursuit of a fourth World Series title in six years continues, and the additions and adjustments made this offseason demonstrate their commitment to sustained success. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges will be crucial as they navigate the 2026 season.
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