In the heart of Spring Training position battles, a notable one is well underway at Camelback Ranch. 

Heading into this year's Spring Training, the Los Angeles Dodgers were on top of the baseball world. 

They had just come off a thrilling Game 7 victory in the 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, securing the first back-to-back title winners in over 25 years. 

After a thrilling series, they followed that up with an even more exhilarating offseason, nabbing both Edwin Díaz and Kyle Tucker on record deals. 

From top to bottom, the Dodgers' defensive configuration is one to admire. But one blip was noticeable with spring around the corner.

In November 2025, second baseman Tommy Edman underwent ankle surgery to repair ligaments in his nagging ankle. 

Edman played the majority of the 2025 season with an ailing ankle, spending two separate stints on the injured list. 

Due to the lack of mobility, Edman manned the second base position when he could, while Andy Pages took over the reps at center field. 

Although he had two stints in which he manned the centerfield spot in the World Series, the stiffness tracking balls in the outfield was apparent.

This, in turn, resulted in Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland going at it in a classic Spring Training position battle for the second base spot.

In the midst of that, an unexpected challenger, Santiago Espinal, has included himself in the array of names who could vie for that position.  

Now, in the present day, Edman has finally taken a step forward in his journey of returning. 

Up until this point, Edman had not been involved in any spring activities for the Dodgers. 

But Edman took batting practice for the first time this spring on Saturday, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. 

Edman would tell the media that he is progressing well and, if all continues to trend upward, he could face off against a velocity machine. 

There is no word on whether Edman will play in any Cactus League games with 18 days left until Opening Day. 

Manager Dave Roberts also provided clarity on Edman's progression, stating that the switch-hitter is hitting from both sides of the plate and running. 

He is still weeks away from being up to tip-top shape and ruled out for Opening Day, but this is a huge step in the right direction for the 30-year-old.  

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