Injury Concerns Pile Up for the Dodgers as Tommy Edman Suffers Toe Fracture and Kiké Hernandez Battles Elbow Soreness

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ ongoing quest for another championship has hit yet another speed bump, as the injury report continues to grow longer. Just as the team enjoys being at the top of the National League standings, the bad news keeps trickling in regarding the health of two key contributors — Tommy Edman and Kiké Hernandez.

The Dodgers officially confirmed on Sunday that utility man Tommy Edman has suffered a fracture in his left big toe, sidelining him indefinitely. While the exact timeline for his return remains uncertain, the club has acknowledged that Edman is expected to miss “several weeks,” at a minimum. This injury comes at a frustrating time for both Edman and the Dodgers, as the versatile infielder-outfielder had been working his way into the everyday lineup, providing depth, defensive flexibility, and clutch hitting.

In addition to Edman’s absence, longtime fan favorite Kiké Hernandez is also dealing with discomfort, this time in his right elbow. Although the team has not yet placed Hernandez on the Injured List, he has been held out of action in recent days and is undergoing treatment for what the Dodgers describe as “persistent elbow soreness.” The team is hopeful that rest and therapy will resolve the issue without requiring a prolonged absence, but nothing is guaranteed at this stage of the season.

For the Dodgers, these developments are more than just unfortunate — they serve as a reminder of the brutal, unforgiving nature of a 162-game season, even for a powerhouse roster stacked with talent and depth. Manager Dave Roberts addressed the media following Sunday’s game, offering insight into the current status of both players and the team’s approach moving forward.

“With Tommy, it’s obviously disappointing,” Roberts said. “He’s been grinding through some things already this year, and to suffer a fracture like that, it’s tough. He’s a competitor, and he wanted to play through it, but after some imaging, it was clear that rest and recovery are the only options.”

Edman, acquired in the offseason from the St. Louis Cardinals, has been one of the Dodgers’ most important utility players. Known for his glove work and reliable bat, Edman had been rotating between the infield and outfield, particularly filling in when needed due to other injuries or scheduled rest days. His ability to play multiple positions allowed Roberts greater lineup flexibility, a luxury that will be sorely missed in the coming weeks.

Edman’s stats may not jump off the page, but his intangibles, defense, and versatility have become vital to the Dodgers’ game-to-game operations. In 57 games this season, Edman has hit .248 with 6 home runs, 19 RBIs, and 9 stolen bases. Perhaps more importantly, his defensive metrics across second base, shortstop, and center field have been among the best in the National League, making his absence a significant blow to the Dodgers’ overall defensive alignment.

As for Kiké Hernandez, the veteran utility man and clubhouse leader has been playing through pain in his right elbow for weeks. Despite his effort to stay on the field, the soreness has worsened, prompting the Dodgers’ medical staff to intervene. While the injury is not currently believed to be structural, the club is approaching the situation with caution, given Hernandez’s injury history and the critical months ahead.

“Kiké is as tough as they come,” Roberts added. “He’s been dealing with some elbow stuff for a little while now, and we just want to be smart. The goal is to have him healthy for the stretch run, and we’re going to give him the time and treatment he needs.”

Hernandez, a beloved figure in Los Angeles, rejoined the Dodgers ahead of the 2024 season after a brief stint with the Boston Red Sox. His return to Chavez Ravine reignited memories of his heroic postseason performances and defensive wizardry across the diamond. This season, Hernandez has played in 68 games, batting .234 with 8 home runs and 27 RBIs, while providing coverage at second base, third base, shortstop, and all three outfield positions.

The loss of both Edman and a limited Hernandez puts added strain on the Dodgers’ bench depth, forcing Roberts and the front office to get creative with their roster construction. Young prospects like Miguel Vargas, Michael Busch, and James Outman may see increased opportunities, while the Dodgers could also look to the trade market as the season inches closer to the All-Star break and the July 30 trade deadline.

For the Dodgers’ fan base, already dealing with the lingering injuries to stars like Mookie Betts and Max Muncy earlier this season, the latest news feels like another gut punch. The team’s vaunted depth has been repeatedly tested, but so far, they’ve managed to weather the storm, largely due to contributions from emerging stars and a rock-solid pitching staff.

At the heart of the matter is the Dodgers’ long-term vision. With October as the ultimate goal, Roberts and President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman must balance short-term competitiveness with player health. Rushing back key contributors like Edman or Hernandez could risk exacerbating injuries, undermining the Dodgers’ postseason ambitions.

“We’re fortunate to have a deep roster,” Roberts emphasized. “The next-man-up mentality has worked for us so far, and I believe in the guys in that clubhouse. We’re going to need everyone, especially as we get closer to the postseason.”

Meanwhile, the Dodgers’ front office will likely intensify their scouting and trade evaluations in the coming weeks. With Edman sidelined and Hernandez battling elbow soreness, utility depth has suddenly become a pressing need. Versatile players who can handle multiple positions and provide league-average offense will be on Friedman’s radar, especially considering the team’s lofty World Series aspirations.

Internally, the Dodgers may promote from Triple-A Oklahoma City, where several position players have been performing well. Miguel Vargas, in particular, has drawn praise for his steady offense and improving defense. Though primarily a corner infielder, Vargas could slot into the Dodgers’ puzzle, providing much-needed coverage while Edman recovers.

For the players themselves, the timing is frustrating but not defeating. Edman, known for his work ethic and determination, remains committed to rehabbing and returning as soon as possible.

“It’s never easy being sidelined,” Edman said via the team’s press release. “But I’ll do everything I can to heal up, stay sharp mentally, and be ready to help this team down the stretch.”

As for Hernandez, his leadership within the clubhouse remains invaluable, even if his on-field availability is limited in the short term. His presence in the dugout, along with his experience navigating injuries, offers a steadying influence on the younger Dodgers facing expanded roles.

For now, the Dodgers will rely on the depth, resilience, and championship pedigree that have defined the franchise over the past decade. Injuries are an unfortunate reality of Major League Baseball, and the Dodgers — like all contenders — must find ways to adapt and persevere.

Fans can expect further updates on Edman’s recovery timeline and Hernandez’s progress in the coming days. The hope is that both players will return for the critical stretch of the season when every game carries heightened stakes, and the Dodgers’ ultimate pursuit of another World Series crown intensifies.

Until then, the Boys in Blue face yet another test of their depth, durability, and determination — challenges this veteran squad has repeatedly overcome in their pursuit of greatness.