Spring Reality Check: Dodgers Swept in Split Squad Action

After opening spring training with six straight wins, the Los Angeles Dodgers have hit their first stretch of adversity. For the second consecutive day, they looked far removed from the crisp, confident club that dominated early Cactus League play.

At Camelback Ranch, the Dodgers struggled in a 6–2 loss to the Chicago Cubs, misfiring in all phases. Meanwhile, in Surprise, Arizona, Los Angeles jumped out early against the Texas Rangers but surrendered three runs in the sixth inning and couldn’t recover.

It’s still February, but these are the kinds of games that force adjustments. You can be sure Dodgers decision-makers are taking notes.

Today’s Double Dip Notes

Camelback Ranch

Dodger pitching simply lacked command. Seven walks, three hit batters, and a wild pitch created constant traffic and ultimately proved costly. That combination is rarely a recipe for success, even in spring training.

If not for late scoring in the ninth inning, the Dodgers may have been shut out entirely.

Freddie Freeman went 1-for-3, but the most interesting moment came during his in-game interview with Fox Sports Net broadcaster Kirsten Watson. Freeman revealed he expects to hit cleanup this season and embraced the move, noting that the lineup construction should give him consistent RBI opportunities. After finishing just below .300 last year, Freeman believes the role could help him return to that mark in 2026.

Surprise Stadium

There was a welcome breakthrough for Dalton Rushing. Entering the game hitting just .091, the young catcher delivered his best performance of the spring, going 2-for-3 with a home run, two RBIs, and two runs scored. It was exactly the type of response the organization wanted to see.

Santiago Espinal also continued to strengthen his case at second base, going 2-for-2 with a walk and a run scored.

Second Base Battle Heating Up

The competition to fill in while Tommy Edman recovers remains one of the most compelling storylines of camp. No one is giving ground.

Through the early portion of spring:

• Hyeseong Kim (.500)

• Noah Miller (.500)

• Santiago Espinal (.545)

• Miguel Rojas (.364)

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All four have shown focus and urgency, understanding that opportunity often comes down to consistency, versatility, and trust from the coaching staff.

The message is clear — this isn’t just a competition for playing time. It’s a battle to earn trust on a championship roster, and every at-bat, every inning, and every hustle play is being watched closely.