Tommy Edman Will Miss Start of Season After Ankle Surgery

Tommy Edman, a player for the Dodgers, will not be able to play at the start of the new baseball season. He had surgery on his ankle in November and needs more time to heal. The team wants him to be fully healthy before he plays again.
By Newsroom | Sports, Baseball |

Dodgers utility player Tommy Edman will begin the 2026 season on the injured list as he recovers from offseason surgery on his right ankle. This decision, confirmed by manager Dave Roberts, means Edman will not be ready for Opening Day. The team is prioritizing his full recovery to ensure he can perform at his best upon his return, especially given his defensive capabilities.

Background on Edman's Ankle and Surgery

Tommy Edman underwent surgery on his right ankle in November 2025. This procedure was intended to address a recurring issue that had impacted his performance in the preceding season. Edman himself stated in late November 2025 that the specific part of his ankle that had been causing trouble had not resurfaced during his recovery. He noted that a boot was a part of his initial recovery, with movement to follow.

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Tommy Edman Says Rehab ‘On Schedule’ After Ankle Surgery - 1

  • Surgery Date: November 2025

  • Affected Ankle: Right

  • Manager's Statement: Edman will start the season on the injured list.

  • Player's Statement (Jan 2026): Ankle issue resolved, rehabilitation on schedule.

Impact on Dodgers' Roster and Strategy

Edman's absence for the start of the season creates a void that the Dodgers will need to fill, particularly at second base and potentially in center field. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that the team had anticipated this scenario and was preparing for Edman to miss time. While Edman is considered a primary option at second base once healthy, the team does not need to name a permanent replacement in his absence. His versatility, having also played third base when Max Muncy was injured, adds another layer to the team's strategic considerations.

  • Key Positions Affected: Second Base, Center Field

  • Team Preparedness: Dodgers anticipated Edman's slow start due to surgery.

  • Roster Flexibility: Roberts will not immediately name a full-time second baseman.

Edman's Injury History and Previous Recovery

This is not the first time Edman has dealt with ankle issues. In early May 2025, he was placed on the injured list for right ankle inflammation. He later worsened the injury while running the bases against the Boston Red Sox in June, though he managed to avoid another stint on the IL at that time. In August of the same year, a sprained right ankle did force him to the injured list. Despite these setbacks, he was able to return for the postseason and contributed to the Dodgers' World Series victory. His numbers in the 2025 season reportedly reflected a player contending with limitations, including a drop in stolen base attempts.

Read More: Tommy Edman Will Miss Opening Day Because of Ankle Surgery

Tommy Edman Says Rehab ‘On Schedule’ After Ankle Surgery - 2

  • Previous IL Stints: May 2025 (inflammation), August 2025 (sprain).

  • Performance Impact: Ankle issues reportedly affected explosiveness and range in 2025.

  • Postseason Availability: Returned in time for the 2025 playoffs.

Edman's Recovery Status and Outlook

Edman has described his rehabilitation process as being "on schedule." He expressed in late January 2026 that he was taking swings and working on baseball-specific activities, acknowledging the effort required to regain full baseball shape. His comments indicate a proactive approach to his recovery, with the goal of returning to 100% health. The Dodgers will monitor his progress closely as he works his way back from surgery.

  • Current Activity: Taking swings, engaging in baseball drills.

  • Player's Sentiment: Positive about recovery progress.

  • Team's Approach: Monitoring Edman's progress.

Expert Analysis

Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager, stated, "Want to put him in the best position.” This suggests a cautious approach to Edman's return, aiming for his optimal performance rather than rushing him back. The team's preparedness for his absence highlights a strategic awareness of player health and its impact on season-long performance.

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"The Dodgers don’t want to rush him back if he is limited defensively. I expect him to have more opportunities this year." - Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager.

Conclusion and Future Considerations

Tommy Edman's placement on the injured list at the start of the 2026 season is a consequence of his November ankle surgery. While his recovery is progressing as planned, the team is opting for a measured approach to his return. This situation will necessitate roster adjustments for the Dodgers in the early part of the season, particularly concerning the middle infield. Edman's past injury history underscores the importance of a thorough rehabilitation process to prevent further setbacks. The team's focus remains on his eventual full recovery and return to contribute to their ongoing success.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why will Tommy Edman miss the start of the season?
Tommy Edman had surgery on his right ankle in November and is still recovering. He needs more time to heal before he can play again.
Q: When will Tommy Edman return to play?
The team has not said exactly when he will return. They want to make sure he is fully healthy first.
Q: How did this injury happen?
Edman had problems with his ankle last season and had surgery to fix it. He had ankle issues before, including inflammation and a sprain.
Q: Is the team worried about his absence?
The Dodgers knew he might miss the start of the season and are ready to fill his spot. They will not name a permanent replacement for him yet.