Miguel Rojas’ possible final game in Miami carried plenty of emotion before a right shoulder injury added uncertainty for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Miguel Rojas’ return to Miami was supposed to be a celebration of a career chapter that may soon be coming to an end.
Instead, his potential final appearance at loanDepot Park ended with another injury concern.
Rojas has been open about his plans to retire following the 2026 season, making Sunday’s matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Miami Marlins particularly meaningful. Miami spent time before the game recognizing the veteran infielder with a tribute video, honoring the eight seasons he spent with the organization.
By the end, however, Rojas was dealing with a sore right shoulder after an awkward defensive play.
The Dodgers ultimately fell 6-4, but the result was secondary to the uncertainty surrounding Rojas’ availability. He remained in the game after the injury occurred in the eighth inning before leaving in the ninth, giving the Dodgers a chance to evaluate how his shoulder responded.
Rojas injured himself while attempting to make a diving play on a ground ball. His arm became extended awkwardly as he went after the ball, and he remained outside the infield for several minutes before eventually returning to action.
The veteran later explained that he appeared to get caught on the artificial surface and overextended his right arm. He also felt a pop toward the back of his shoulder.
That is particularly significant given Rojas’ history with the joint. He has dealt with a labrum tear in his shoulder for years, making this another instance where the 37-year-old may have to determine how much he can tolerate rather than simply waiting for an injury to disappear.
Rojas is scheduled to receive treatment Monday before determining how he feels over the following 24 to 48 hours. He indicated that he may receive an injection as part of the treatment.
For the Dodgers, the timing is less than ideal.
Los Angeles is preparing for its next series against the Cincinnati Reds, with plans to send two left-handed starters to the mound. Manager Dave Roberts said the club will wait for the medical staff's assessment and Rojas’ response to treatment before deciding whether he can play.
The Dodgers have leaned on Rojas for his versatility and defensive ability throughout his career, particularly when injuries have forced adjustments around the infield. With the postseason approaching, his health will be more important than ever.
At the same time, Rojas understands the temptation to continue playing despite the pain.
Late in the season, players frequently try to remain available through nagging injuries, particularly with the stakes increasing. Rojas indicated that he does not expect the shoulder issue to keep him sidelined for an extended period, but he also understands that pushing too hard could create a bigger problem.
That balance is especially important considering where he is in his career.
Sunday marked a full-circle moment for Rojas. After beginning his major-league career with the Dodgers, he spent the bulk of his career in Miami before eventually returning to Los Angeles. The Marlins’ pregame tribute recognized the impact those years had on his career and his family.
If this truly was Rojas’ final game in Miami, the evening provided an emotional reminder of everything he accomplished there.
There is still baseball left to play, though. Rojas remains focused on helping the Dodgers pursue another championship, and he left open the possibility that winning the World Series could change his plans.
Before any of that can happen, however, Rojas must first determine whether his shoulder will allow him to finish the season on the field.
