Los Angeles Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts Provides Insightful Injury Update on Miguel Rojas Following Exit Against Kansas City Royals
Los Angeles Dodgers’ infielder Miguel Rojas was forced to exit Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Royals, raising concern among fans and stirring questions about his status moving forward. In a season already marked by injuries and lineup shuffles, the latest incident adds another layer of uncertainty for the Dodgers’ infield depth. Manager Dave Roberts addressed the situation following the game, providing a crucial update that could shape the club’s immediate plans.
Rojas, known for his versatility and reliable glove, has been a valuable presence for the Dodgers this season, particularly in filling gaps left by other injuries. His departure during Sunday’s game was abrupt and visibly worrisome, as trainers came out to check on him following what appeared to be discomfort after a routine play. The initial signs were enough for Roberts and the medical staff to pull him from the game as a precaution.
Speaking with reporters postgame, Roberts confirmed that Rojas was experiencing tightness and irritation in his left hamstring, the same leg that had given him minor issues earlier in the year. “Miggy felt it tighten up a bit while running to first,” Roberts stated. “We didn’t want to take any chances, especially with how important he’s been to our infield mix.”
Rojas has been handling multiple infield positions with ease this season, filling in at shortstop, second base, and third base as needed. His defensive consistency has allowed the Dodgers to weather other injuries and rest key players without a dramatic drop-off. That makes any potential absence even more impactful.
“He’s such a steadying presence out there,” Roberts continued. “We’re hoping it’s nothing more than precautionary, but we’ll know more after the imaging tomorrow.”
As expected, Rojas was scheduled for imaging tests the following day to determine the extent of the injury. The Dodgers medical staff would evaluate whether it’s a short-term setback or if it might require a stint on the injured list. While Roberts remained cautiously optimistic, he acknowledged that hamstring issues—especially recurring ones—are always treated with care.
“We’ll be smart with him,” Roberts emphasized. “The last thing we want is for it to linger or get worse. If he needs a few days or even a bit more time, we’ll make that call with his long-term health in mind.”
This update comes at a pivotal time for the Dodgers, who are navigating a challenging stretch in the schedule with several key players already on the injured list. Max Muncy, Gavin Lux, and Mookie Betts have all dealt with various ailments this season, forcing the club to lean heavily on depth players and minor league call-ups.
Rojas, acquired initially for his glove, has provided more than just defense in 2025. His timely hitting and leadership in the clubhouse have made him a respected veteran among the Dodgers’ younger core. His experience has especially come in handy during tense moments late in games, and he’s often seen as a coach-on-the-field figure.
The injury itself occurred in the bottom of the fourth inning. After hitting a slow roller toward the third baseman, Rojas sprinted down the line and was clearly limping by the time he reached first base. Though he remained standing and did not fall, his body language immediately prompted a visit from the trainer. After a brief conversation and some light stretching attempts, Roberts made the decision to pull him from the game.
“It didn’t feel right to leave him in there,” Roberts explained. “Even though he said he could try to play through it, we’ve seen too many guys make things worse by pushing through.”
This level of caution from the Dodgers is not new. Their medical and coaching staff have increasingly leaned toward early interventions and rest to avoid prolonged absences. Given how deep the season is and how important a healthy lineup is for a postseason push, the team has shown a preference for ensuring full recoveries, even at the cost of short-term lineup strength.
Rojas, speaking briefly with media members in the locker room, echoed his manager’s cautious tone but also conveyed some optimism. “It’s more tightness than anything,” he said. “I’ve felt it before, and usually a couple of days off helps. We’ll see what the tests say.”
His calm demeanor and positive attitude were a welcome sign to fans and teammates alike. Known for his work ethic and durability, Rojas has rarely missed extended time in recent years. In fact, one of the reasons the Dodgers pursued him was his track record of staying on the field and performing consistently.
Dodgers fans have grown to appreciate Rojas not just for his play, but for his leadership and influence on the younger players, particularly infielders like Miguel Vargas and Michael Busch. He has been a mentor both on and off the field, often seen giving pointers during games and working closely with coaching staff in between innings.
Should Rojas need time off, the Dodgers may turn to utility options such as Kiké Hernández or Chris Taylor, both of whom have experience at shortstop and second base. Additionally, recent minor league call-ups could see expanded roles, depending on how long Rojas is unavailable.
For Roberts, the key is maintaining stability and flexibility within the roster. “That’s the value of depth,” he said. “We have guys who can step in and contribute right away, but there’s no replacing the leadership and consistency Miguel brings.”
The injury update also comes at a time when the Dodgers’ front office is evaluating trade possibilities ahead of the deadline. While shortstop may not have been an area of immediate concern, any uncertainty around Rojas could shift their priorities. A depth move or insurance policy at the infield position could now be on the radar.
Though Roberts did not directly comment on potential roster moves in response to Rojas’ situation, he did note that the team was always exploring options to strengthen the club. “We’ll do what’s best for the team,” he said. “Whether that means internal solutions or looking outside, we’re open to all possibilities.”
With the All-Star break approaching, there is also the possibility that the team could use the downtime strategically to give Rojas extra recovery time without sacrificing too many games. Depending on the severity revealed by the imaging results, a short stint on the 10-day injured list might be the prudent route. That way, Rojas could heal without pressure, and the team could utilize the All-Star window to minimize his time away from the field.
Looking at the broader context, Rojas’ situation reflects a season in which the Dodgers have had to be particularly adaptive. Injuries, unexpected performances, and shifting lineups have defined their campaign thus far, but consistent play from veterans like Rojas has been a stabilizing factor. Losing that, even temporarily, puts more weight on the shoulders of others to step up.
As fans await the official results of Rojas’ medical tests, the overall tone from the Dodgers’ clubhouse remains measured but hopeful. While the injury was not what anyone wanted to see, the early exit and immediate attention suggest the team is doing everything possible to prevent it from escalating into a major issue.
“Miggy’s tough,” Roberts concluded. “He knows his body and he knows what this team needs. We’ll get through this, just like we have all year—with everyone stepping up and doing their part.”
In the end, the Dodgers’ depth will be tested once more, but if history is any indication, they will find a way to keep moving forward—just as they’ve done all season. Miguel Rojas may be sidelined for a short time, but his impact and influence will continue to resonate in the dugout, the infield, and beyond.
