Eddie Rosario Joins Dodgers on Minor League Deal Amid Comeback Quest

LOS ANGELES, CA — Eddie Rosario has signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team announced Saturday. This move comes after Rosario, 33, sought new opportunities following his release from the New York Mets earlier this season.

Rosario, known for his breakout performance in the 2021 postseason with the Atlanta Braves, has struggled in the last few years. He earned National League Championship Series MVP honors during the Braves’ NLCS victory over the Dodgers in 2021, showcasing an impressive 1.647 OPS over 28 plate appearances. That postseason run culminated in a World Series championship, marking a high point in Rosario’s decade-long career.

After the title, Rosario re-signed with Atlanta on a two-year, $18 million contract. But since then, his performance has waned significantly. He did manage to hit 21 home runs in 2023; however, the Braves opted not to exercise Rosario’s $9 million option for 2024. This led him to a brief stint with the Washington Nationals, where he struggled even more, resulting in his release in July.

In total for the 2024 season, Rosario’s offensive statistics were disappointing, finishing with a .175 batting average, .215 on-base percentage, and .316 slugging percentage across 319 plate appearances combined with the Nationals and Braves. This stark decline raised concerns about his ability to contribute, but the Dodgers see potential in taking a low-risk chance on Rosario.

Despite his recent underperformance, the Dodgers, who have been active in the offseason, hope that Rosario can reclaim his form during spring training. The team’s loaded roster presents a challenge for him to secure a spot, yet injuries or standout performance could change those odds. A successful exhibition season could also position him for a spot on another team if he decides to opt out of his minor league contract.

Rosario’s past success in clutch situations adds intrigue for Dodgers fans as they await his debut. The organization has not shied away from taking chances on veterans to enhance their club amid championship aspirations.