Back in the Spring Swing of Things — Dodgers Begin the Chase for Three

The defending champions are back on the field, and the focus in Arizona is simple: sharpen the edge and chase history. As the Los Angeles Dodgers begin another spring, the message is clear — this roster isn’t just built to compete. It’s built to dominate again.

Spring training has always been about preparation. But this year, it feels more like purpose.

Here’s what fans should be watching as the Dodgers get back in the swing of things.

The Real Storylines to Watch This Spring

This year’s Dodgers aren’t just trying to stay good. They’re trying to stay hungry. After reaching the top again, the biggest challenge isn’t talent — it’s urgency.

The front office and coaching staff know that repeating success in today’s game requires constant evolution. That means this spring is less about proving they belong and more about sharpening the edge that got them there.

The spotlight starts with the core. Players like Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani set the tone for everything inside that clubhouse. When they’re locked in, the rest of the roster follows. The Dodgers don’t just rely on stars — they build an identity around them.

But this spring is also about balance. The addition of Kyle Tucker changes the lineup dynamic. His presence gives the offense another power threat while improving defense and lengthening the order. Add in late-inning stability with Edwin Díaz, and suddenly the Dodgers look even more complete.

What separates this team, though, is depth. Injuries, slumps, and long seasons test every contender. Los Angeles has built a roster designed to absorb those blows. From young arms competing for bullpen roles to versatile position players filling gaps, competition will define this camp.

And then there’s the mindset. Championship teams often talk about “getting back.” The Dodgers don’t. They talk about staying there.

Spring training, for this group, isn’t about finding confidence. It’s about maintaining dominance.

Betts Has Something to Prove

Despite another strong season by most standards, Betts enters 2026 with added motivation. His 2025 campaign saw a noticeable drop in production, finishing with a .258 batting average, .326 OBP, .732 OPS, 20 home runs, and 82 RBIs in 150 games.

After battling an illness before Opening Day last year that led to significant weight loss, Betts admitted he never fully felt like himself. Now, a full offseason of strength and recovery has him focused on returning to elite form.

Manager Dave Roberts has made it clear he still trusts his superstar.

Roberts recently said he “likes” Betts hitting third this season — a shift from the No. 2 spot he occupied for much of 2025. He also hinted that Tucker and Freddie Freeman could rotate between the second and fourth spots.

The message is simple: the Dodgers are adjusting to unlock their best version.

Tucker Brings Balance and Championship Energy

Tucker’s arrival instantly reshapes the outfield and deepens the lineup. The four-year, $240 million deal signals both his production and the club’s belief in his impact.

“This team and this city and the fanbase kind of makes it a little bit easier… try to win another World Series,” Tucker said after signing.

His presence allows Teoscar Hernández to return to left field, where he hopes to rebound after an injury-plagued 2025 season.

“I wasn’t moving the way I know I can move,” Hernández said. “That was one of my goals this offseason — getting back to the shape I know I can perform in.”

He’s even setting his sights on a Gold Glove.

Early Injury Tests for a Deep Roster

Spring training rarely goes perfectly, and the Dodgers are already facing some early challenges.

Power reliever Brusdar Graterol will not be ready for Opening Day as he continues his recovery from shoulder surgery that sidelined him for all of 2025.

Utility standout Tommy Edman is also expected to miss the start of the season following ankle surgery. A late-March return remains an aggressive goal.

Meanwhile, reliever Evan Phillips continues his rehab from Tommy John surgery and will be out for at least the first few months.

For a team built on depth, these early obstacles will test the system and open opportunities for others to step up.

Elite Pitching and Cy Young Competition

The Dodgers’ rotation could again be among the best in baseball. Both Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto enter the season with Cy Young aspirations, creating a competitive edge within the staff.

That internal drive has historically elevated the entire group. If both perform at their peak, Los Angeles could once again feature one of the most dominant pitching duos in the league.

Stability, Leadership, and Familiar Faces

Continuity remains a priority. The team extended Max Muncy and welcomed back Kiké Hernández, reinforcing the culture and chemistry that have defined this era.

Veterans like Miguel Rojas provide leadership and flexibility, while constant roster adjustments show the front office’s aggressive approach.

This organization never stops searching for an edge.

The Three-Peat Mentality

The Dodgers enter 2026 chasing history. The roster is deeper. The lineup is more balanced. The rotation may be even stronger.

There are questions. There are injuries. There is pressure.

But there is also belief.

As Hernández posted this spring: "What else did we expect? Three in a row has a nice ring to it.”

Spring is here. The Dodgers are back in the swing of things. And the road to another title begins now.