Santiago Espinal
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MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 23 2025Espinal is absent from the lineup for Monday's contest against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the third time over the Reds' last four games, Espinal will find himself on the bench. On the first two occasions Espinal sat, Gavin Lux started at third base, but Christian Encarnacion-Strand will occupy the hot corner Monday.
Jun 22 2025Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After starting at third base in three of the past four games, Espinal appeared to have taken back primary duties from the struggling Christian Encarnacion-Strand, but both players will be left out of the lineup Sunday. Gavin Lux will step in at the hot corner, opening up the designated hitter spot for Tyler Stephenson, who gets a day off from catching.
Jun 8 2025Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal is on the bench for the second day in a row and appears to have shifted back into a utility role in the wake of Christian Encarnacion-Strand's return from the injured list. Espinal has gone just 1-for-29 over his last eight games and is slashing just .239/.296/.287 over 204 plate appearances on the season.
Jun 2 2025Espinal is not in the lineup for Monday's game versus the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has been an everyday player for the Reds since late April but will get a day of rest for the series opener. Garrett Hampson will handle third base and bat ninth Monday.
May 27 2025Espinal went 2-for-2 with a double and an RBI in Monday's 7-4 win over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal, who has been the primary third baseman since Noelvi Marte (oblique) was placed on the 10-day injured list, opened Monday's game on the bench while Gavin Lux started at the hot corner. Espinal eventually entered as a pinch hitter, finished the game at third base, and delivered a pair of hits including a run-scoring double in the eighth inning. He entered the game batting .169 (11-for-65) with one RBI over his last 17 games.
May 26 2025Espinal is not in the lineup for Monday's game against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has been a regular in the lineup at third base -- and in the two hole -- for Cincinnati since Noelvi Marte (oblique) was placed on the injured list. However, Espinal's bat has gone cold, as he's just 11-for-65 (.169 average) with two extra-base hits (both doubles) in his last 17 games. The 30-year-old longtime utility man will sit Monday in favor of Garrett Hampson, who will be making his first start in a Reds uniform.
May 18 2025Espinal went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored in Saturday's 4-1 win over Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal entered the contest batting .118 (4-for-34) with zero RBI over the previous nine contests. He's been the regular starter at third base since Noelvi Marte (oblique) was placed on the 10-day injured list. Marte's healing is going better than expected, per MLB.com, but he still has a way to go before returning. That means Espinal should continue to receive consistent playing time for at least the next two weeks.
May 13 2025Espinal will start at third base and bat second in Tuesday's contest against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Usual No. 2 hitter Matt McLain has been demoted to the No. 8 spot in the lineup. Espinal has hit second a handful of times this season but has made most of his starts much lower in the batting order, including hitting ninth in the Reds' previous game Sunday.
May 10 2025Espinal started at third base and went 1-for-3 with a walk and a stolen base in Friday's 3-0 loss to Houston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The stolen base was the first of the season for Espinal, who logged 11 thefts in a part-time role for the Reds in 2024. He's been more of a regular in 2025, appearing in 31 of Cincinnati's 40 games to date. Friday's start was his fifth in a row at third base since Noelvi Marte (oblique) became unavailable. It was Espinal's 10th overall start, including outings at shortstop, left field and right field. With Austin Hays activated off the injured list Friday, that frees up Gavin Lux to usurp starts at the third base, but Espinal has been a valuable and productive piece and should maintain a semi-regular role.
May 7 2025Espinal will start at third base and bat fifth in Wednesday's game against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will pick up his eighth straight start Wednesday and his third in a row at third base, which could be his primary home for the foreseeable future after Noelvi Marte was placed on the 10-day injured list with a Grade 2 oblique strain. The 30-year-old has recorded at least one hit in each of his previous seven starts to lift his average up to .333 over 87 at-bats. Espinal could continue to occupy a spot in the heart of the lineup while he's swinging a hot bat and while the Reds are without multiple key hitters due to injuries.
May 6 2025Espinal started at third base and went 1-for-3 in Monday's 4-0 loss to Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The hot-hitting Espinal got the start over a slumping Noelvi Marte (3-for-22 in last six games) and extended his hit streak to six games. It was Cincinnati's lone hit. The versatile Espinal is 11-for-22 with two doubles and five RBI during the hot stretch.
May 4 2025Espinal started at third base and went 3-for-4 in Saturday's 11-6 loss to the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal made a fourth straight start, this time filling in for the resting Noelvi Marte at third base. He's also started in left field twice and at second base once during that stretch, going 9-for-15 with two doubles, five RBI and two runs scored. The utility player is slashing .347/.402/.413 through 25 games and could end up holding down a near-everyday role while Austin Hays (hamstring), Christian Encarnacion-Strand (back) and Jeimer Candelario (back) are all on the injured list.
May 3 2025Espinal started in left field and went 1-for-3 with a walk, a double, two RBI and a run scored in Friday's 6-1 win over Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started the last two games in left field and should help fill the void left by Austin Hays' hamstring injury, which landed him on the 10-day injured list. Espinal is expected to start in left against left-handers while Hays is unavailable, and Gavin Lux should start there against righties. Espinal will also move around as needed in the infield. He's batting .324/.385/.394 over 24 games (78 plate appearances) this season.
May 1 2025Espinal went 2-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored in Thursday's 9-1 win against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal delivered his second consecutive multi-hit game and finished the three-game set versus St. Louis with five hits in nine plate appearances. The 30-year-old hasn't had a regular presence in the lineup since Matt McLain returned from his hamstring injury in mid-April, but Espinal has been performing well as a bench option this year with a .324/.378/.382 slash line through 23 contests.
Apr 16 2025Espinal is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After making four consecutive starts in the infield -- including three in a row at second base -- Espinal shifted to the bench for Tuesday's 8-4 win with Matt McLain (hamstring) manning the keystone in his return from the injured list. McLain should handle everyday duties at second base moving forward, leaving Espinal to fill a utility role that may afford him only a handful of starts per week.
Apr 13 2025Espinal went 2-for-4 with two RBI in Sunday's 4-0 win over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal got the scoring started Sunday with a two-run single in the third inning that brought home Austin Wynns and TJ Friedl. It was Espinal's first RBI of the season, and he's gone 5-for-15 over his last four starts.
Apr 6 2025Espinal started at second base and went 2-for-5 with a double and two runs scored in Saturday's 11-7 win over the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal filled in at second base after Matt McLain (hamstring) was a late scratch. It was the second straight start at the keystone for Espinal, who is 6-for-21 with two walks and two runs scored through seven games. McLain may also be held out of Sunday's lineup, per a report from Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Apr 5 2025Espinal started at second base and went 2-for-3 with a walk in Friday's 3-2 loss to Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal filled in for an injured Matt McLain (hamstring), who was available as a pinch hitter. That McLain entered the game suggests he might be ready to go Saturday. Espinal has appeared in six games this season while seeing time at second base, third base, left field and right field.
Mar 30 2025Espinal started at third base and went 2-for-3 in Saturday's 3-2 win over the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal, who entered the starting lineup for the first time, filled in at third base while Jeimer Candelario handled DH duties for Spencer Steer, who was given a rest day. The hot corner could be a revolving door over the first month of the season. In addition to Espinal and Candelario, Gavin Lux and Steer could see time there. At this point, Lux is covering left field for the injured Austin Hays (calf) and Steer is dealing with a shoulder that's limited him to DH and could prompt more rest days than normal.
Feb 24 2025Espinal started at shortstop and went 1-for-2 with a triple and a run scored in Sunday's spring game against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has appeared in two Cactus League games -- both at shortstop -- and made an impact in both. Prior to Sunday's triple, he homered in a split-squad game against the Brewers on Saturday. The 30-year-old utility infielder/outfielder was useful to the Reds in 2024, establishing career highs in home runs (nine) and steals (11), as the team dealt with injuries throughout the roster. Cincinnati re-signed him during the offseason, presumably with the intent of having him fill a similar role in 2025.
Nov 22 2024Espinal and the Reds agreed to a one-year, $2.4 million contract Friday to avoid arbitration, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was traded from the Blue Jays to the Reds in March and had a .246/.295/.356 slash line with nine home runs and 11 steals in 118 games during 2024. He should fill a utility role for Cincinnati again in 2025.
Sep 26 2024Espinal started at second base and went 1-for-3 in Wednesday's 5-2 loss to Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal filled in at second base for Jonathan India, who was held out of the starting lineup after clearing concussion protocol. Espinal's in a skid to end the season, going 4-for-37 (.108) over the 11 games, but he's been productive overall during the second half.
Sep 20 2024Espinal is not in the lineup for Friday's contest versus the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After starting each of the previous 16 games, Espinal will begin Friday's series opener on the bench. Noelvi Marte will hold down third base for the Reds.
Sep 10 2024Espinal started at second base and went 0-for-4 in Monday's 1-0 win over Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal, who has been seeing regular duty at third base, moved over to second to cover for the injured Jonathan India (elbow), who was removed from Sunday's contest and absent from Monday's lineup. Espinal is 4-for-21 over the last six games, but his second-half body of work remains strong -- he's batting .358/.402/.514 over 33 games since the All-Star break.
Sep 4 2024Espinal will start at third base and bat eighth in Wednesday's contest against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has started two straight and five of the last eight games at third base, as it's looking like he might have leap-frogged Noelvi Marte on the depth chart at the position. The 29-year-old is slashing .398/.436/.580 since the All-Star break and should continue to receive regular reps while he's swinging a hot bat.
Sep 2 2024Espinal went 2-for-4 with two RBI and a stolen base in Monday's 5-3 win against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal put his team ahead with a two-run single in the fifth inning that ended up being the deciding runs on Monday. Espinal has been on a tear recently, and he's been getting plenty of playing time as a result. The 29-year-old has started 14 of the Reds last 16 games, and he's hitting .385 over that span with 10 RBI. For the season, Espinal carries a .270/.314/.404 slash line with nine homers, 42 RBI and nine stolen bases.
Sep 1 2024Espinal (shin) is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old will be withheld from the lineup for a second straight game after he fouled a ball off his left shin during Game 2 of Friday's doubleheader. His playing time could take a hit even once healthy since Jake Fraley (knee) is back from the injured list, though Espinal's .386/.427/.578 slash line in 27 games since the All-Star break should help keep him in the lineup.
Aug 31 2024Espinal (shin) isn't in the Reds' lineup for Saturday's game against Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal had to make an early exit from Friday's nightcap after fouling a ball off his left shin, and he'll take a seat for at least Saturday's game as he deals with some inflammation. His absence will open a spot in the lineup for Noelvi Marte to start at third base while batting eighth.
Aug 30 2024Espinal was removed from the second game of Friday's doubleheader against the Brewers due to an apparent foot injury, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal fouled a ball off his foot and then seemed to have trouble running to first base after lining a single to left field in the fifth inning. He was able to remain in the game after multiple visits from the Reds' training staff, but the team ultimately decided to pull him once Cincinnati went on defense to start the seventh. The 29-year-old's willingness to remain in the game is a good sign that he avoided a serious injury, though the Reds may sit him down for a game or two just to be safe.
Aug 25 2024Espinal will start in right field and bat sixth in Sunday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will pick up an eighth consecutive start after he recorded at least one hit in each of his previous seven contests while going 11-for-27 with three runs and three RBI. He's seen action at third base, second base, designated hitter and now right field over the last eight games, and the Reds should continue to carve out a regular spot in the lineup for Espinal while he's wielding a hot bat.
Aug 24 2024Espinal started at third base and went 3-for-4 with a double and two RBI in Friday's 6-5 loss to the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal delivered a two-run single that gave the Reds a 5-0 lead in the fourth inning. He's hit safely in six straight games, during which Espinal is 10-for-23 with three RBI and three runs. This continues a strong second half for the 29-year-old utility infielder. Espinal is batting .424/.452/.610 over 17 games since the All-Star break.
Aug 21 2024Espinal started at second base and went 1-for-4 in Tuesday's 10-3 loss to the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal, who made a third consecutive start, was part of a lineup shuffle resulting from first baseman/designated hitter Jeimer Candelario (toe) landing on the 10-day injured list. Jonathan India moved from second base to DH, while Espinal took over at the keystone. He started the previous two games at third base, where Noelvi Marte's been playing, but Marte is in a prolonged slump and Espinal has earned additional opportunities with a strong second half so far. The utility infielder is batting .417/.440/.625 over 16 games since the All-Star break.
Aug 4 2024Espinal started in left field and went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and two stolen bases in Sunday's loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has now started six of the last seven contests and will continue to vie for playing time at third base, especially with fellow third baseman Noelvi Marte struggling with a .488 OPS. The versatile Espinal has started at second base, shortstop, third base, left field and designated hitter this season, batting .243 with eight home runs, 30 RBI, 21 runs scored and eight stolen bases across 77 games played.
Aug 3 2024Espinal started at third and went 0-for-3 in Friday's 3-0 loss to San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal, who made a fifth consecutive start, saw an end to a nine-game hit streak (as a starter). He entered Friday's game in a 19-for-35 stretch over the previous 12 games, which led to an increase in playing time, including starts at third base the last two games. The primary starter at the hot corner, Noelvi Marte, is batting .177 since coming back from a suspension and could be susceptible to losing playing time to Espinal.
Aug 1 2024Espinal started at third base and went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Wednesday's 13-4 loss to the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal and his smoldering bat made a fourth consecutive start. He's hit in all four games, going 8-for-14 with three doubles, a home run, three RBI and two additional runs. The month of July was Espinal's best of the season; the utility infielder slashed .432/.457/.727 with three homers and eight RBI over 16 games.
Jul 31 2024Espinal started at designated hitter and went 4-for-4 with two doubles, a home run and two RBI in Tuesday's 6-3 win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was in the starting lineup for a third consecutive game; with the Reds awaiting the arrival of Ty France, who was acquired Monday, Espinal slotted in at DH for the night. Once France arrives, it is expected that he and Jeimer Candelario will most frequently handle first base/DH.
Jul 24 2024Espinal will start at second base and bat eighth in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader versus Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has now picked up just two starts in the Reds' six games since the All-Star break. He saw an uptick in playing time to close out the second half while Jonathan India managed a knee contusion, but Espinal has shifted back into a utility role now that India has seemingly moved past the injury.
Jul 14 2024Espinal entered Saturday's 10-6 win over the Marlins to play second base after Jonathan India (knee) was removed from the game in the top of the fourth inning. Espinal finished 2-for-2 with a home run and two RBI. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: India sustained a left knee contusion on a steal attempt during the second frame and remained in the game for one more inning before his removal. He was scratched from a game earlier this week due to the same injury. The Reds may opt to have India sit on Sunday, the final game before the All-Star break. Miami is scheduled to start a lefty (Trevor Rogers), so the right-handed-hitting Espinal is likely to play in some capacity even if India is available.
Jul 11 2024Espinal went 2-for-4 with a double and a solo home run in Thursday's 8-1 win over Colorado. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal got the start at shortstop, giving Elly De La Cruz a breather, and belted his fourth home run of the season. It was his third straight start after he filled in at second base for Jonathan India, who battled knee soreness the previous two games. Espinal has hit safely in four straight, going 6-for-12 and bumping his average to .203 for the season.
Jun 30 2024Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will hit the bench for the second straight day after he had started in six straight games at either third base or designated hitter. With Noelvi Marte recently getting reinstated from an 80-game suspension to begin the season and with Jake Fraley and Jeimer Candelario returning to the lineup Saturday and Sunday, respectively, after multi-game absences, Espinal's opportunities are expected to become more limited moving forward.
Jun 27 2024Espinal started at third base and went 0-for-3 in Wednesday's 6-1 loss to Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started at third base for the seventh time in the last eight games, as Jeimer Candelario's knee and hamstring issues are impacting his usage. Candelario, who sat out Wednesday, has been used at first base or DH in four of his last five games. Espinal is 5-for-25 with a walk, a home run, three RBI and an additional run scored over his last seven games.
Jun 24 2024Espinal will start at third base and bat seventh in Monday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will occupy third base for the fifth time in six games, with three of those starts coming against right-handers. For the second time during that stretch, Espinal will take aim at Pirates lefty Bailey Falter, who takes the hill for the Pirates on Monday. Espinal will carry a five-game hitting streak into Monday's contest, and he could end up handling a near-everyday role in the Cincinnati infield until the team elects to reinstate Noelvi Marte (suspension) to the big-league roster. Marte's 80-game suspension comes to an end Thursday, but he's struggled during his rehab assignment at Triple-A Louisville and could be optioned if the Reds prefer to hand Espinal regular playing time.
Jun 20 2024Espinal started at third base and went 1-for-3 in Wednesday's 1-0 loss to Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal received a second consecutive start at the hot corner, as Jeimer Candelario (tendinitis) was unavailable. This could be a situation where manager David Bell is giving Candelario multiple days to rest up, including a team day off Thursday, so that he'll be ready to go Friday when the Reds open a home series against the suddenly hot Red Sox.
Jun 19 2024Espinal started at third base and went 1-for-4 with a home run and two RBI in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal provided all the offense needed with a two-run homer in the fifth inning. He was making his first start in seven games and has just 18 at-bats this month; however, he could see action in the immediate future. Jeimer Candelario, who started at first base, was removed from Tuesday's contest due to tendinitis. Candelario has been the team's primary third baseman and may be held out of Wednesday's series finale in Pittsburgh.
Jun 1 2024Espinal entered as a pinch hitter and went 1-for-1 with a two-run home run in Friday's 5-4 win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal pinch hit for Will Benson against lefty reliever Drew Smyly and launched his third home run of the season to give the Reds a 4-3 lead in the bottom of the seventh inning. It was the first time in four games that Espinal appeared in game. The utility infielder has been useful while the Reds deal with early season injuries.
May 29 2024Espinal is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started at third base in all three games of the Reds' weekend series versus the Dodgers, but he's been a spectator for all three games of the series with St. Louis now that Jeimer Candelario is healthy again after missing time with a neck injury. The Reds will likely to continue to make room for Espinal in the lineup when the team faces left-handed pitchers, but his opportunities to play against right-handers will become more infrequent now that the team has all of its infielders available save for Christian Encarnacion-Strand (wrist) and Matt McLain (shoulder), the latter of whom has been on the injured list all season.
May 26 2024Espinal started at third base and went 1-for-3 in Saturday's 3-1 win over the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was a late addition to the lineup after Jeimer Candelario (neck) was scratched. The utility infielder is getting a relevant amount of plate appearances due to injuries and a player suspension. While his .195 average isn't attractive, Espinal has hit with regularity of late, going 9-for-33 (.273) with a double, a home run, three RBI, four walks, two steals and four runs scored over the last 11 games.
May 25 2024Espinal started at third base and went 0-for-2 with two walks, a steal and a run scored in Friday's 9-6 win over the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal's stolen base was his sixth in 38 games played, tying a career high he had in 2021 (92 games) and 2022 (135 games) while with the Blue Jays. The Reds tend to be aggressive on the basepaths, and Espinal has taken advantage of more playing time than was expected when the team acquired him late in spring training.
May 16 2024Espinal went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Wednesday's 2-1 loss to the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Epsinal cracked his second home run of the season in the fifth inning and has hit safely in five straight games, going 6-for-15. The infielder is playing more than originally projected, filling in at second base for Matt McLain (shoulder) or third for Noelvi Marte (suspension), but Espinal's .200 average and .536 OPS are not enticing.
May 12 2024Espinal went 2-for-5 with a stolen base in Sunday's 6-5 extra-inning loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was one of two Reds with multiple hits in the game, and it was his first such performance since April 24. The infielder hit a poor .121 (4-for-33) over 11 contests in between multi-hit efforts. He's slashing .186/.245/.244 with one home run, 12 RBI, six runs scored and five steals over 30 games this season. Espinal has sat out the last four games in which the Reds have faced a right-handed pitcher, though he's still been in the lineup against the last three southpaws they've faced.
May 8 2024Espinal will start at third base and bat fifth in Wednesday's game against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal saw a streak of six consecutive starts come to an end in Tuesday's 6-2 loss to Arizona, and before that, he enjoyed a stretch of 11 consecutive starts. He looks as though he could fall into regular playing time once again, as the Reds placed Christian Encarnacion-Strand (wrist) on the 10-day injured list Wednesday. Jeimer Candelario will move over from his usual spot at third base to cover Encarnacion-Strand's post at first base, opening up the hot corner for Espinal. Despite seeing plenty of usage in his utility role this season, Espinal has provided the Reds with underwhelming numbers (.169 average, one home run, four stolen bases, 12 RBI and five runs) across 90 plate appearances.
Apr 28 2024Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thanks to both Jonathan India and Jake Fraley recently missing multiple games due to illness, Espinal has held down a regular spot in the Cincinnati infield. He started each of the last 11 games, going 7-for-34 (.206 average) with a home run and a stolen base. Now that India and Fraley are both back to full strength, Espinal is expected to move into more of a part-time role.
Apr 25 2024Espinal started at second base and went 2-for-3 with three RBI and a run scored in Wednesday's 7-4 win over Philadelphia. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has feasted on Phillies' pitching, going 5-for-7 with a home run and five RBI over the first two games of the series. It was his fourth straight start at second base in place of Jonathan India (illness), but the ailing India was available off the bench Wednesday and presumably will be available for the series finale Thursday afternoon.
Apr 23 2024Espinal went 3-for-4 with a home run and two total RBI in Tuesday's 8-1 victory over the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After picking up a pair of base hits earlier in the game, Espinal delivered the final blow in Cincinnati's 8-1 victory, smacking a solo home run off Ricardo Pinto in the eighth inning, his first of the season. It's just the second multi-hit game of the year for the 29-year-old Espinal -- he'd been stuck in a 1-for-19 slump over his previous seven contests. Overall, he's slashing .178/.264/.267 with seven RBI, three runs scored and three stolen bases across 17 games. While Espinal's performance Tuesday was encouraging, he'll likely retreat to a bench role when Jonathan India (illness) is ready to return.
Apr 22 2024Espinal started at second base and went 0-for-2 with a walk in Sunday's 3-0 win over the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal made a second consecutive start at second base, as Jonathan India (illness) was unavailable Sunday after being removed from Saturday's contest. Espinal is slashing .128/.234/.154 with five RBI, three steals and two runs scored over 15 games.
Apr 18 2024Espinal made a second consecutive start at third base in place of an unavailable Jeimer Candelario (illness) on Wednesday and went 0-for-3 in a 5-1 loss to the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal is 0-for-6 in the two starts and hitless over his last eight at-bats. With a scheduled day off Thursday, Candelario could be ready to go Friday at home against the Angels.
Apr 13 2024Espinal started at third base and went 2-for-4 with three RBI in Friday's 11-1 win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal delivered one run on a sacrifice fly in the sixth inning then put the coda on the game with a two-run single in the ninth. He's typically in the lineup against left-handers but made his first start against a righty Friday, filling in for a slumping Jeimer Candelario. Both of Espinal's hits Friday were off lefties.
Apr 9 2024Espinal started at second base and went 1-for-3 with an RBI, a stolen base and a run scored in Monday's 10-8 win over Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was inserted to the starting lineup after Jonathan India (leg) was scratched. Cincinnati manager David Bell does not view India's injury as significant. Espinal has started three of the last four games, with all of those coming against left-handers.
Apr 6 2024Espinal started at third base and went 0-for-3 with a walk and stolen base in Friday's 3-2 loss to the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jeimer Candelario served as the designated hitter after leaving Wednesday's game with a sore elbow. It's unclear if Candelario will be limited to DH duties, but if so, Espinal could fill in at third base. He's expected to slot in somewhere anytime the Reds are facing a left-hander. Espinal is 1-for-10 with two walks and two steals through four games (three starts).
Apr 4 2024Espinal entered Wednesday's 4-1 win over Philadelphia after third baseman Jeimer Candelario (elbow) was removed from the game. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Candelario felt elbow soreness during an eighth-inning at-bat and was replaced in the field by Espinal for the final inning. Candelario told Mark Sheldon of MLB.com that he was feeling better following the game. He'll be checked out before Friday's game against the Mets, and pending that evaluation, Espinal could start at third base.
Mar 31 2024Espinal started at second base and went 1-for-3 with a stolen base in Saturday's 7-6 loss to the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal moved into the starting lineup for the first time during the regular season, slotting in against a left-hander. Jonathan India, who handled the keystone for the first game when a right-hander was on the mound, moved to DH. Those two are expected to lock down the position while Matt McLain (shoulder) is on the 60-day injured list.
Mar 24 2024Espinal started at second base and went 1-for-3 with an RBI in Saturday's spring game against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal made his first appearance since Cincinnati acquired him from Toronto last Wednesday. The infielder provides insurance in an infield that will be missing two projected starters at second and third base when the regular season begins.
Mar 20 2024The Blue Jays traded Espinal to the Reds on Wednesday in exchange for Chris McElvain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Matt McLain (shoulder) set to miss the opening portion of the season and Noelvi Marte suspended 80 games, the Reds will bring in Espinal to give their infield a bit more depth heading into Opening Day. Espinal slashed .248/.310/.335 across 254 plate appearances last season with the Blue Jays, and he will likely serve as the main backup to Jonathan India at second base in Cincinnati. His versatility may net him a few starts across the infield.
Mar 13 2024Espinal went 1-for-2 with a double and two RBI in Tuesday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old infielder is batting only .200 (4-for-20) this spring, but that masks a strong performance at the plate that also includes a 5:2 BB:K. Unfortunately for Espinal, one of his main competitors for a utility spot, Ernie Clement, has been on fire in camp, going 10-for-25 with two homers and zero strikeouts. Given the defensive flexibility already provided by Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Cavan Biggio and Davis Schneider, there probably isn't room for two more bench infielders on the 26-man roster, so Espinal will likely have to begin his season at Triple-A Buffalo and wait for injuries to open up a spot for him in the majors.
Jan 11 2024Espinal agreed to a one-year, $2.725 million deal with the Blue Jays on Thursday, avoiding arbitration, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old utility player saw 20-plus games at second base and third base last season while playing 16 games at shortstop. His defensive versatility makes him more valuable in real life than in fantasy.
Sep 3 2023Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal went 6-for-10 with a double and four RBI while starting in three of the past four games at third base, but he'll head to the bench Sunday while Cavan Biggio logs a start at the hot corner. The Blue Jays should have extra playing time available for Espinal on the left side of the infield while both Matt Chapman (finger) and Bo Bichette (quadricep) are on the injured list.
Aug 20 2023Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal went 4-for-21 with three runs and two RBI while starting in each of the past six games, but he appears primed to see fewer opportunities moving forward while he transitions back into a utility role. Bo Bichette, Kevin Kiermaier, Matt Chapman and George Springer have all returned from recent injury-related absences, bringing the Toronto lineup back to full strength.
Aug 16 2023Espinal will start at third base and bat eighth in Wednesday's game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will stick in the lineup for the fourth game in a row, with each of his last three starts now coming at third base in place of the injured Matt Chapman (finger). Though he's held his own over the last three games with three hits, two RBI and two runs over 11 at-bats, Espinal will likely be headed back to a utility role in the near future, assuming Chapman is able to avoid a trip to the injured list.
Jun 6 2023Espinal (hamstring) was activated from the 10-day injured list Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has been sidelined since late May because of a right hamstring strain but got through a few rehab games with no problems. He will return to a utility infielder role with the Blue Jays.
Jun 2 2023Espinal (hamstring) is slated for a third rehab game Saturday with Low-A Dunedin, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has the night off Friday after going 2-for-6 with a double in his first two rehab games Wednesday and Thursday. On the shelf since May 20 due to a right hamstring strain, the 28-year-old utility infielder should be ready to return to the Blue Jays' active roster next week.
May 26 2023Espinal (hamstring) took live batting practice Friday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal is working out at the Blue Jays' player development complex in Florida as he recovers from the right hamstring strain he suffered May 20 against the Orioles. He still has a lot of hurdles to clear, including agility drills and running, but the 28-year-old could feasibly be ready to return to Toronto's active roster in the early part of June.
May 22 2023Espinal was placed on the 10-day injured list by the Blue Jays on Monday with a right hamstring inflammation, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: There had been hope Espinal would avoid the IL and the fact that the Jays are calling it inflammation and not a strain would seem to suggest they're just being extra cautious. Otto Lopez is up to take Espinal's roster spot.
May 21 2023Espinal, who is out of the lineup Sunday against the Orioles with a hamstring injury, said he shouldn't need a trip to the injured list, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 28-year-old exited Saturday's contest with a right hamstring issue, but it doesn't appear to be a serious injury. Even if available, Espinal isn't guaranteed to rejoin the starting nine within the next couple days since Toronto's position players are otherwise healthy.
May 20 2023Espinal exited Saturday's contest with the Orioles early with a right hamstring injury. He went 3-for-3 before leaving. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was forced out of the game in the top of the eighth inning with right leg discomfort, which is now understood to be hamstring related. Whit Merrifield replaced him at second base and will bat eighth for the remainder of the contest. More information on Espinal's status will likely be provided after the game.
May 17 2023Espinal is will start at second base and bat ninth Wednesday against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Whit Merrifield covering left field Wednesday while Kevin Kiermaier (illness) gets the night off, the keystone is opened up for Espinal. The 28-year-old infielder has put up a woeful .477 OPS across 71 plate appearances this season.
Apr 2 2023Espinal is hitting ninth and playing second base for Sunday's contest against St. Louis, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the first start of the season for Espinal, and it's no surprise it comes against a left-hander in Jordan Montgomery as he's handled southpaws well over his brief career. Whit Merrifield is playing left with Espinal at the keystone, while Kevin Kiermaier gets a day of rest.
Mar 6 2023Espinal went 2-for-3 with a run scored, an RBI and two stolen bases in Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Getting the start at second base and batting sixth, Espinal continued a strong start to his spring that's seen him go 7-for-14 at the plate with a homer and three steals. The 28-year-old is expected to begin the season in a bench role with Whit Merrifield shifting to second base, but if Merrifield's quad injury lingers over the next few weeks, Espinal could find himself in the Opening Day lineup.
Jan 13 2023Espinal and the Blue Jays agreed on a one-year, $2.1 million contract Friday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal and the team won't have to go through the headache of the arbitration process anymore after striking a deal Friday. The infielder busted onto the scene in 2022, batting .267 with seven homers, 51 RBI, 51 runs and six stolen bases over 135 games in a season where he made his first All Star team. The 28-year-old will likely operate as a utility option in 2023 and could start in multiple spots throughout the infield.
Oct 7 2022Espinal (oblique) was activated from the 10-day injured list and included on the Blue Jays' wild-card roster, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will return to the active roster just in time for the Blue Jays' wild-card series with the Mariners, which starts Friday. The 27-year-old missed the last couple weeks of the season while dealing with an oblique issue, but he'll now operate in a utility role for Toronto in the postseason. Espinal produced a .267 average with seven homers, 51 RBI, 51 runs and six stolen bases over 135 games during the regular season.
Oct 5 2022Espinal (oblique) took live batting practice and was involved in infield drills during a workout Wednesday in Toronto, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal won't be activated from the 10-day injured list in advance of the Blue Jays' season-closing doubleheader in Baltimore on Wednesday, but he looks like he could be a candidate for inclusion on Toronto's wild-card round roster in advance of the team's Game 1 matchup with the Mariners on Friday. If he shows enough progress in his recovery from the oblique strain for the Blue Jays to include him on the postseason roster, Espinal may have to settle for a utility role. While Espinal has been on the shelf since Sept. 22, Whit Merrifield has seized control of the keystone and has produced a monstrous 1.237 OPS over his last 10 contests.
Oct 2 2022Espinal (oblique) hit off a pitching machine Sunday and is scheduled to face live pitching Tuesday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal began running the bases Friday and is now ramping up his hitting program. The 27-year-old is already eligible to be reinstated from the 10-day injured list, and he could be back for the final game of the regular season Wednesday if he continues to progress with no issues.
Sep 30 2022Espinal (oblique) has begun running the bases Friday and is ramping up baseball activity, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has been out of action since Sept. 21 when he was removed from a game early. He remains on the injured list, but the Blue Jays will be evaluating him on a day-to-day basis going forward.
Sep 26 2022Espinal (oblique) is doing some light baseball activity and hitting off a tee, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has been on the injured list with a left oblique strain since Thursday, but it's encouraging that he's begun some light work after a few days. The Blue Jays hope that the 27-year-old will be able to return late in the regular season so he can prepare for postseason play, but it's not yet clear whether he'll have enough time to ramp up prior to Oct. 5.
Sep 22 2022Espinal was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was removed from Wednesday's game against the Phillies due to side discomfort, and he'll miss at least a week and a half after being diagnosed with an oblique strain. Cavan Biggio and Whit Merrifield should see increased playing time at second base in Espinal's absence, while Otto Lopez was called up to provide additional depth.
Sep 21 2022Espinal was removed from Wednesday's game early due to left side discomfort. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cavan Biggio came in to pinch hit for Espinal in the seventh inning. More updates will come on Espinal's status once the Blue Jays are able to get a better look at him.
Sep 16 2022Espinal isn't in the lineup Friday against Baltimore, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has gone 4-for-6 with two runs, an RBI and a walk over the last three games and will get a breather during Friday's series opener against the Orioles. Cavan Biggio will take over at the keystone and bat fifth.
Sep 14 2022Espinal went 3-for-3 with an RBI and one run scored in Wednesday's 5-1 win over Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After going hitless in his previous eight at-bats, Espinal responded with three hits Wednesday. The multi-hit effort was his fourth of the month and raised his average to .268. He also came around to score twice, bringing his season-long total to 50. While he has lost at-bats here and there, Espinal has proven to be a reliable middle infield option this season, especially in deeper fantasy leagues.
Sep 13 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal went 0-for-2 in Game 1 before being lifted for a pinch hitter during the seventh inning, and he'll remain on the bench for the nightcap. Cavan Biggio will start at the keystone in Game 2.
Sep 12 2022Espinal is on the bench Monday versus Tampa Bay, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An 0-for-4 performance Sunday has Espinal hitting .269 with a .387 OBP in eight games since September began. Cavan Biggio enters the lineup to play second base Monday.
Sep 10 2022Espinal went 3-for-4 with a double, a walk, three RBI and a run scored in Saturday's victory over the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal put the Blue Jays up 4-0 with a two-run single in the first inning and added an RBI double in the third, both off Texas starter Kohei Arihara. The second baseman had been dreadful in his last nine games prior to this contest, turning in a .483 OPS in 31 plate appearances. Furthermore, the 27-year-old had only recorded two RBI in 39 at-bats over his last 14 games prior to Saturday.
Sep 6 2022Espinal is not in the lineup for Tuesday's matchup in Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has now been absent for three of Toronto's last four games, including a couple games due to a hand injury, the result of a hit-by-pitch. He has just a .494 OPS over the last two weeks. Whit Merrifield will take over at second base and bat ninth while Espinal sits.
Sep 5 2022Espinal isn't starting the second game of Monday's doubleheader against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal returned to the lineup for Monday's matinee and went 0-for-3 with a run and a walk. Cavan Biggio is taking over at the keystone and batting sixth during Game 2.
Sep 4 2022Espinal (hand) is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Even though Espinal escaped with no structural damage to his left hand after being struck by a pitch in Saturday's 4-1 win, he'll be on the bench for the series finale while he recovers from a painful contusion. Cavan Biggio steps in at second base for Espinal, who can be considered day-to-day heading into Monday's doubleheader in Baltimore.
Sep 3 2022Espinal left Saturday's game against the Pirates with a left hand contusion. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: X-rays were negative after Espinal was hit by a 97.9-mph fastball from Robert Stephenson in the eighth inning. If there's swelling, the Blue Jays could elect to go with Whit Merrifield or Cavan Biggio at second base for the series finale in Pittsburgh.
Aug 31 2022Espinal isn't in the lineup Wednesday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has gone 0-for-8 with a walk and a strikeout over his last three games and will head to the bench for the third time in the last four matchups. Whit Merrifield is starting at the keystone and batting ninth.
Aug 29 2022Espinal isn't in the lineup Monday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal went 2-for-10 with a run and a strikeout over his last three games and will be on the bench for a second consecutive matchup. Cavan Biggio is starting at the keystone and batting sixth.
Aug 28 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started the past three games and will take a seat after going 2-for-10 with a run scored. Whit Merrifield will start at the keystone and bat eighth Sunday.
Aug 24 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will sit for the second game in a row, despite having put together a respectable .286/.348/.405 slash line in August. With the Blue Jays prioritizing defense in the outfield of late by handing Jackie Bradley more work in center while the banged-up George Springer serves as the team's designated hitter, Espinal is now threatened by both Whit Merrifield and Cavan Biggio for playing time at second base. After Biggio received the starting nod at the keystone Tuesday, Merrifield will get a turn at the position Wednesday.
Aug 23 2022Espinal is on the bench Tuesday versus Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cavan Biggio will start at second base in place of Espinal, who has gone 11-for-28 with a pair of doubles and three RBI in his last 10 games.
Aug 19 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Friday's game against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started the past three games and will take a seat after going 5-for-10 with a double, a walk, three RBI and a run scored. The 27-year-old has been the preferred option at second base despite the acquisition of Whit Merrifield at the trade deadline, though Merrifield is in the lineup Friday in place of George Springer (knee) in center field. Cavan Biggio is starting at the keystone and batting eighth.
Aug 17 2022Espinal will start at second base and bat eighth in Wednesday's game against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has now made four starts in the middle infield in the Blue Jays' last five games, with the last two coming at second base against right-handed starting pitchers while Whit Merrifield has remained out of the lineup on both occasions. The Blue Jays didn't deal for Merrifield at the trade deadline to let him collect dust on the bench, but the 33-year-old looks as though he could be limited to more of a part-time utility role until he finds more success at the plate. Since being acquired Aug. 2, Merrifield has produced a .523 OPS, while Espinal owns a .747 mark during that same two-week stretch.
Aug 8 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Monday's game in Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will sit out for the third time in five games while he continues to work in a timeshare at the keystone with Cavan Biggio, who is batting ninth Monday. The two may continue to split work at the position until George Springer (elbow) is activated from the 10-day injured list, at which point Whit Merrifield -- who is filling in as the Jays' primary center fielder -- will likely move back to second base.
Aug 5 2022Espinal went 1-for-2 with a solo home run in Friday's 6-5 extra-inning loss to the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal's homer was his first since June 30 and his first extra-base hit since July 7. He picked a bad time to go cold -- he's gone 4-for-24 (.167) in his last nine games and no longer has a regular role in the lineup with the Blue Jays adding Whit Merrifield at the trade deadline. For the season, Espinal has a .265/.316/.383 slash line with seven long balls, 41 RBI, 40 runs scored, five stolen bases and 21 doubles, but he'll likely be limited to a bench role when the Blue Jays are at full health.
Aug 4 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal's time as Toronto's primary second baseman has likely come to an end with trade-acquisition Whit Merrifield making his team debut. Merrifield is actually starting in center field Thursday but is expected to see most of his playing time at the keystone. Espinal should compete for utility reps with Cavan Biggio, who is starting at second base Thursday.
Jul 31 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will get his second day off of the week while Cavan Biggio enters the lineup as the Blue Jays' second baseman and leadoff hitter. In his six starts since the All-Star break, Espinal has gone 5-for-22 with two walks, six runs and three RBI.
Jul 27 2022Espinal isn't starting Wednesday against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has gone 4-for-13 with six runs, three RBI, two walks and two strikeouts over four games since the All-Star break, and he'll take a seat for the second time in the last three matchups. Cavan Biggio is taking over at the keystone and batting sixth.
Jul 24 2022Espinal is not in the starting lineup Sunday versus the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will get a breather Sunday after he went 3-for-10 with three RBI and five runs scored in the first two contests of the series. Cavan Biggio will start at second base and bat sixth in the series finale.
Jul 23 2022Espinal went 2-for-6 with a walk, four runs and an RBI in Friday's 28-5 win over the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Fresh off making his first appearance in the Midsummer Classic on Tuesday, Espinal demonstrated why he was named an All-Star in the first place with a big performance in the Blue Jays' first game of the second half. His four runs tied Teoscar Hernandez and Danny Jansen for the team lead on a night the Blue Jays scored 25 times in the first five innings alone.
Jul 15 2022Espinal will sit Friday against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal hits the bench after starting 10 straight games, a stretch in which he posted a .605 OPS. Cavan Biggio will get the start at second base.
Jul 8 2022Espinal went 1-for-4 with a stolen base and a walk in Friday's 5-2 extra-innings loss to the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal walked and stole second in the eighth inning, but he was left on base. The infielder has enjoyed a productive start to July, going 9-for-30 (.300) with two steals in eight games. He's up to five steals in seven attempts this year while maintaining a .274/.327/.405 slash line with six home runs, 37 RBI and 31 runs scored through 84 contests.
Jul 3 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cavan Biggio will be filling in at the keystone in place of Espinal, who appears to be getting a routine maintenance day in the series finale. Espinal went 3-for-11 with two doubles, a walk and two runs in the first three games of the series.
Jul 1 2022Espinal went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in Thursday's win over the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The infielder capped the scoring on the night with a two-run blast off Ryan Yarbrough in the seventh inning, his sixth long ball of the year. Espinal snapped a 21-game homer drought with the performance, but he's been picking up the pace at the plate with four two-hit efforts in the last five games, boosting his slash line back up to .271/.323/.405.
Jun 25 2022Espinal is not in the lineup for Saturday's game at Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started the past nine games and will receive a day off after going 3-for-37 during that stretch. Cavan Biggio will take over at the keystone and bat leadoff since George Spinger (elbow) remains sidelined.
Jun 14 2022Espinal is not in Tuesday's lineup against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has quietly been very productive this season, especially lately, as he is hitting .380/.426/.640 with three home runs in 12 games this month. Cavan Biggio will start at the keystone and bat ninth.
Jun 7 2022Espinal went 3-for-4 with a double and two runs in Tuesday's win against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal doubled and scored in the top of the second inning before later adding two singles and coming around to score again. He has now recorded multiple hits in five of his last six contests, going 12-for-24 with two homers, eight RBI and five runs over those contests. The hot stretch has his batting average up to .293 on the season while he has compiled five home runs, 27 RBI, 21 runs and three stolen bases over 188 at-bats in 55 games this year.
Jun 2 2022Espinal went 3-for-5 with a double and three RBI in an 8-3 win Thursday over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal hit leadoff and for the second straight game and delivered for Toronto, recording hits in his final three plate appearances. The second baseman plated a run with a fifth-inning double and drove in two more in the eighth on a single. After a 2-for-23 slump to end May, the 27-year-old has come to life in June, going 4-for-9 with a double, a homer, and four RBI. In his last seven starts, he's hit leadoff or second for the Blue Jays.
May 31 2022Espinal is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a rough weekend in Los Angeles in which he went 2-for-18 during the Blue Jays' four-game series with the Angels, Espinal will take a seat as Toronto begins a six-game homestand. Cavan Biggio replaces Espinal at the keystone.
Apr 23 2022Espinal went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Friday's 4-3 win over the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He went back-to-back with Bradley Zimmer in the fifth inning off Justin Verlander to erase a 3-1 deficit, setting the stage for some ninth-inning heroics by Matt Chapman and Vladimir Guerrero. Espinal's defense has apparently won him the starting job at second base, but his .214/.292/.357 slash line through 14 games doesn't do much to excite.
Apr 21 2022Espinal is not in Thursday's lineup against the Red Sox, Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The light-hitting infielder is batting .216 with zero home runs and two steals through 37 at-bats. Gosuke Katoh is getting his first big-league start as the Jays' second baseman.
Apr 12 2022Espinal will start at second base and bat eighth Tuesday against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will get the starting nod over the lefty-hitting Cavan Biggio with southpaw Nestor Cortes on the hill for the Yankees, but Espinal may have also supplanted Biggio as the Blue Jays' preferred second baseman against right-handed pitching. Biggio was on the bench against righties Spencer Howard and Jameson Taillon on Sunday and Monday, respectively, while Espinal picked up starts in both games and went 3-for-6 with two runs and a stolen base between the contests. Espinal looks like the Blue Jays' best option at the keystone for now, as was the case last season, when he supplanted the struggling Biggio in the regular lineup and finished with a solid .311/.376/.405 slash line over 246 plate appearances.
Apr 4 2022Espinal got the start at second base and hit ninth in Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees, going 1-for-2 with a walk, a double and a run scored. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old hit a surprising .311 with two homers and six steals over 222 at-bats last year, and Espinal heads into Opening Day as the Blue Jays' top infield utility player. Cavan Biggio is hardly a lock to keep the starting second base job, however, and if his 2021 struggles continue, Espinal could once again get more playing time than expected.
Sep 29 2021Espinal will start at third base and bat eighth Wednesday against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since being reinstated from the 10-day injured list last weekend, Espinal has started at third base in each of the past four games, going 3-for-13 with two runs. Espinal looks like he'll remain atop the depth chart to close out the regular season, even with Cavan Biggio returning from the IL on Tuesday. Biggio will be on the bench for the second game in a row.
Sep 24 2021Espinal (hip) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has been dealing with a strained right hip flexor since the end of August, but he began a rehab assignment at Triple-A Buffalo last weekend. He made four appearances in Buffalo and went 4-for-13 with a home run, a double and two RBI. He's starting at the hot corner and batting eighth in Friday's game against the Twins.
Sep 18 2021Espinal (hip) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has been out with a hip flexor since late August. He shouldn't need too long of a rehab assignment given that he's only missed three weeks, though his expected return date is not yet clear.
Sep 13 2021Espinal (hip) was spotted Monday taking part in sprinting drills on the field prior to the Blue Jays' game against the Rays, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal looks like he's starting to ramp up again after a right hip flexor strain resulted in him being shut down Aug. 29. He'll still need to incorporate full baseball activities into his workout regimen before heading out on what will likely be a multi-game minor-league rehab assignment. Jake Lamb and Breyvic Valera are expected to form a platoon at third base until Espinal is deemed ready to return from the 10-day injured list.
Aug 29 2021The Blue Jays placed Espinal on the 10-day injured list Sunday with a right hip flexor strain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal exited Saturday's game against the Tigers with the hip issue, which the Blue Jays quickly determined was more than a day-to-day concern. While Espinal is sidelined for at least the next week and a half, Kevin Smith and Breyvic Valera are expected to step in as the Blue Jays' primary options at third base.
Aug 28 2021Espinal exited Saturday's game against the Tigers with a strained right hip flexor, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The severity of the injury is not yet clear. Espinal had stepped into a starting role at third base in the absence of Cavan Biggio, who's dealing with elbow, back and neck issues. Breyvic Valera replaced him in Saturday's contest and could spend time as a regular starter should Espinal miss an extended period as well, though Kevin Smith could also compete for opportunities.
Aug 27 2021Espinal is out of the lineup Friday against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started the past four games and will take a seat after going 3-for-13 with a run and a stolen base. Kevin Smith will cover the hot corner in his absence Friday.
Aug 22 2021Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After starting in nine of the past 10 games while reaching base at a .403 clip, Espinal appears to have at least temporarily locked down a near-everyday role at third base. Kevin Smith will get a nod at the hot corner in place of a resting Espinal, who should retain a spot atop the depth chart until Cavan Biggio (back) returns from the injured list.
Aug 18 2021Espinal isn't in the lineup Wednesday against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will get a breather after he went 4-for-8 with a run, an RBI and a stolen base across the last two games. Breyvic Valera will start at the hot corner and bat sixth.
Aug 15 2021Espinal went 3-for-4 with three base hits and his fourth stolen base of the season in Sunday's 8-3 win over the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though he didn't score or produce any runs while batting out of the No. 9 spot, Espinal did his part to turn the lineup over and run up pitch counts on Mariners starter Logan Gilbert and the three relievers Seattle used on the afternoon. Espinal was making his sixth consecutive start at third base and appears to have at least temporarily moved ahead of Breyvic Valera, who started at second base after being withheld from the lineup the previous two days.
Aug 10 2021Espinal is not starting Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has just two hits in his last 18 at-bats dating back to July 31. He'll sit in favor of Breyvic Valera for the third time in five games during Tuesday's matinee, but he figures to have a chance to start the nightcap.
Aug 7 2021Espinal is not in the lineup for Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal went 0-for-2 with a strikeout in the afternoon contest and is now hitting .235 in 34 at-bats since the All-Star break. Breyvic Valera will start at third base and bat eighth Saturday night.
Aug 4 2021Espinal isn't in the lineup Wednesday against Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal recently drew six consecutive starts, but he'll be out of the lineup for a second straight contest after he went 1-for-9 with a home run, two RBI, two walks and a strikeout in his last three appearances. Breyvic Valera will start at the hot corner and bat eighth.
Aug 2 2021Espinal will start at third base and bat seventh Monday against Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will stick in the lineup for a sixth consecutive contest after he went 1-for-3 with a home run and a walk in Sunday's 5-1 win over Kansas City. The 26-year-old is now sitting on a .312/.362/.428 slash line over 149 plate appearances on the season, and he at least appears to have worked his way into a timeshare at third base with the struggling Cavan Biggio, who owns a pedestrian .671 OPS on the season while striking out in 27 percent of his plate appearances. Espinal is worthy of a pickup in AL-only leagues where he's still available.
Aug 1 2021Espinal will start at third base and bat eighth Sunday against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal looks to be cutting into Cavan Biggio's role as the Blue Jays' everyday third baseman, as the former will be picking up his fifth consecutive start Sunday. The 26-year-old went 3-for-13 with a pair of walks and a stolen base over the past four contests, but that production may not be good enough for him to permanently usurp Biggio on the depth chart.
Jul 30 2021Espinal went 2-for-4 with a walk, two runs scored and an RBI in Thursday's rout of the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Getting the nod at third base and hitting eighth, Espinal made a contribution in a 13-1 win that saw every Jays starter collect at least one hit and drive in at least one run. With Lourdes Gurriel (elbow) sidelined and Cavan Biggio seeing more action in the outfield as a result, Espinal and his .320/.370/.422 slash line in 138 plate appearances this season could see an uptick in playing time in the short term.
Jul 28 2021Espinal went 0-for-2 with a walk and a stolen base Wednesday against Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal received the start at third base in the back half of Wednesday's doubleheader and picked up his third steal of the year in the third inning. The 26-year-old landed on Toronto's roster as a utility infielder but has logged the bulk of his playing time at third base, slashing .315/.361/.419 with one home run and 10 RBI in 133 plate appearances this season. Espinal would likely move back to his original utility role if Toronto acquires a more offensive-minded third baseman prior to the trade deadline.
Jul 11 2021Espinal went 3-for-4 with an RBI single in Sunday's 3-1 win over Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Sunday was the infielder's third three-hit effort in 50 games this year. Espinal has seen more of a utility role lately, but he's gone 8-for-16 with a home run, four RBI and three runs scored through seven games in July. Overall, the 26-year-old is slashing .321/.367/.420 through 120 plate appearances.
Jul 3 2021Espinal went 2-for-3 with a home run and two RBI on Saturday against Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal took reliever Matt Wisler deep in the sixth inning for his first career home run, a two-run blast that broke the game open at 6-1. He also singled in the second, Espinal's second two-hit game in the last week. The trade of veteran Joe Panik has opened the door for Espinal to receive more starts at third base, which allows the Jays to utilize Cavan Biggio in more of a super-utility role. The 26-year-old Espinal provides a steady glove but has also put together a surprising .304/.355/.402 slash line in 110 plate appearances this season. His lack of power and speed (two steals in three attempts), however, limit his offensive appeal.
Jun 23 2021Espinal is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: George Springer's return from the injured list Tuesday looks set to close the door on Espinal's run as an everyday player. With some combination of Springer, Randal Grichuk, Teoscar Hernandez and Lourdes Gurriel expected to occupy the three outfield and designated-hitter spots in most games, Cavan Biggio should move back into an everyday role at third base, where Espinal had been holding down the fort. Espinal made four straight starts at the hot corner before exiting the lineup in Tuesday's series opener in Miami.
Jun 20 2021Espinal will start at third base and bat eighth Sunday against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will stick in the starting nine for a fourth straight game after he reached base four times (two base hits, two walks) across his four plate appearances in Saturday's 10-7 win over the Orioles. His run as the Blue Jays' everyday third baseman will likely come to an end soon since Teoscar Hernandez returned from the paternity list Sunday. Hernandez, Lourdes Gurriel and Randal Grichuk will likely form Toronto's everyday outfield for now, leaving Cavan Biggio to pick up more work at the hot corner at Espinal's expense.
Jun 15 2021Espinal was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo prior to Tuesday's game against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was sent to Triple-A on Friday, but with Jonathan Davis being placed on the paternity list Tuesday, he finds himself back on the major-league roster. He'll provide infield depth in the coming days, though he could well be sent back to the minors once Davis is ready to rejoin the club.
Jun 11 2021Espinal was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Friday, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old is 6-for-15 in his past 10 games but will head to the minors Friday with Cavan Biggio (neck) returning from the injured list. Espinal could rejoin the Blue Jays later in the year when the team requires infield depth.
Jun 2 2021Espinal isn't in the lineup Wednesday against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will be out of the lineup for a second straight game after he went 3-for-8 with a double, three RBI and a run across his last four appearances. Joe Panik will start at the hot corner and bat sixth.
Jun 1 2021Espinal isn't starting Tuesday's game against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started in Sunday's matinee and went 1-for-3 with two strikeouts. Joe Panik will start at third base and bat sixth.
May 30 2021Espinal is not in the lineup for Game 1 of Sunday's doubleheader at Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal has been the primary starter at third base since Cavan Biggio (neck) landed on the injured list, but he's been unable to solidify his grip on the role and is 3-for-20 over the past seven games. Joe Panik will receive the start at the hot corner in Sunday's matinee.
May 27 2021Espinal isn't in the lineup for Game 1 of Thursday's doubleheader against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will be out of the lineup for a second straight game after he went 0-for-10 with an RBI, a walk and two strikeouts across his last three appearances. Joe Panik will start at third base and bat eighth.
May 23 2021Espinal will start at third base and bat seventh Sunday against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will be in the lineup for the sixth time in seven games, and at this point, he appears to have emerged as the primary replacement at third base for the injured Cavan Biggio (neck). The 26-year-old should provide capable defense at the hot corner, but he hasn't offered much of an impact with the bat over his 114 career MLB plate appearances (73 wRC+).
Apr 20 2021Espinal was recalled from the alternate training site prior to Tuesday's game against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He will likely be back and forth between the alternate training site and the majors all season long. Espinal has played in three games, collecting three hits in eight at-bats.
Apr 17 2021Espinal was recalled by the Blue Jays to serve as the 27th man in Saturday's doubleheader against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will start at third base and bat seventh in Saturday's matinee. During his first stint with the major-league club this year, Espinal went 3-for-5 with a double, two runs and an RBI.
Apr 12 2021The Blue Jays optioned Espinal to their alternate training site Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll cede his spot on the 26-man active roster to outfielder Lourdes Gurriel (illness), who was activated from the COVID-19 injured list. Espinal was with the big club for two days and made an impact in his lone start Saturday against the Angels, going 3-for-5 with a double, two runs and an RBI.
Apr 10 2021Espinal was recalled by the Blue Jays on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal was unable to break camp with the major-league club this year, but he'll join the big-league roster after Lourdes Gurriel was placed on the COVID-19 injured list due to vaccine-related symptoms Saturday. Since Gurriel will be eligible to return as soon as his symptoms subside, Espinal might not spend much time in the majors.
Mar 27 2021Espinal was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal's ability to fill in at shortstop and second base should make him one of the top candidates for a call-up should injuries strike the Blue Jays' infield, but there's no room for him on the Opening Day roster. His .267/.308/.333 slash line in his 27-game debut last year doesn't suggest he'll be all that interesting to fantasy teams should he find himself with unexpected playing time.
Sep 29 2020Espinal will join the Blue Jays for the AL Wild Card Round against Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal appeared in 27 games for the Blue Jays in his rookie season but didn't do much at the plate, hitting .267/.308/.333. He'll be a bench option for this series.
Sep 19 2020Espinal was optioned to the Blue Jays' alternate training site Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal carved out a role with the Blue Jays in late August, but he saw his playing time dwindle in recent games. He should get more consistent playing time at the alternate training site and could serve as depth if injuries occur in the team's infield.
Aug 30 2020Espinal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will bow out of the lineup for a third straight game while Joe Panik draws another start at shortstop in his place. The rookie looks in line to fill a short-side platoon role at the position while the Blue Jays wait for Bo Bichette (knee) to return from the injured list.
Aug 29 2020Espinal is not in the lineup Saturday against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will head to the bench Saturday after garnering four straight starts at shortstop in place of Bo Bichette (knee). Joe Panik will pick up the start and bat eighth in his place.
Aug 26 2020Espinal went 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Tuesday's 9-7 loss to the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The former Boston farmhand, acquired a couple years ago for Steve Pearce, showed his old bosses what they were missing both at the plate and in the field. Since taking over as the Jays' main shortstop when Bo Bichette (knee) got hurt, Espinal has three multi-hit performances in his seven starts, but has gone 0-for-11 in the other four games, leading to a .304/.320/.391 slash line during that stretch.
Aug 22 2020Espinal isn't in the lineup for Saturday's contest against the Rays, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. Joe Panik will receive the start at shortstop in favor of Espinal. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started three straight games at shortstop for the injured Bo Bichette (knee) but will now sit for the second time in three games as he still has more to prove if he wants more consistent playing time as Bichette's fill-in.
Aug 20 2020Espinal isn't in the lineup for Game 2 of Thursday's doubleheader against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal drew three consecutive starts at shortstop with Bo Bichette (knee) out indefinitely, but Joe Panik will get the start for the second game of the twin bill. Espinal is hitting .263 with one stolen base and seven strikeouts over 19 at-bats this year.
Aug 16 2020The Blue Jays recalled Espinal from their taxi squad ahead of Sunday's game against the Rays, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal will offer the Blue Jays some extra depth in the middle infield after Bo Bichette (knee) was moved to the 10-day injured list, but Brandon Drury and Joe Panik are seemingly the top candidates to replace Bichette as the team's everyday shortstop. Expect the slick-fielding Espinal to see most of his work with Toronto as a late-inning defensive replacement.
Aug 6 2020Espinal was optioned to Toronto's alternate training site Thursday, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He will remain on the taxi squad for the final four games of the road trip. Espinal served a role earlier in the season when Bo Bichette was banged up, but he has not played in a game since July 29.
Jul 30 2020Espinal is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espinal started the past two games at shortstop in place of Bo Bichette (hamstring), but the rookie will retreat to his usual bench role after the Blue Jays cleared Bichette to start in the series finale. Even if Bichette misses more extended time at some point in 2020, the defensive-minded Espinal is unlikely to emerge as an intriguing fantasy commodity.
Jul 22 2020Espinal will be included on the Blue Jays' Opening Day roster, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo shortly after spring training was shutdown in March, but he'll end up breaking camp in the majors despite appearing in only 28 games at the Triple-A level. Espinal should operate as a utility infielder off the bench and is unlikely to see significant opportunities if the team remains fairly healthy.
Mar 22 2020Espinal opened some eyes before spring training was put on pause, slashing .417/.462/1.000 with three home runs in 26 Grapefruit League plate appearances. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old has never hit more than 10 home runs in a minor-league season, so take that spring power production with an entire shaker of salt. Nonetheless, Espinal looked more than ready to make his major-league debut, and while he'll be at Triple-A Buffalo when the regular season begins, he remains the best option in the organization to fill in at shortstop for Bo Bichette -- whether that comes due to an injury, or if the club decides it isn't comfortable with the defense offered by Brandon Drury or Joe Panik when Bichette needs a breather.
Jun 28 2018Espinal was traded to the Blue Jays on Thursday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports.The 23-year-old was dealt to Toronto in the deal that sent Steve Pearce to the Red Sox in a rare trade between division foes. Espinal has hit well this season at High-A Salem with a .314 average to go with 15 doubles and seven home runs, but it's worth noting that he was at an advanced age for that level. The Blue Jays have yet to announce where Espinal will be assigned.