Veteran outfielder Eddie Rosario has agreed to a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, marking his latest attempt to regain footing in Major League Baseball after a career-worst 2024 season. The 33-year-old Puerto Rican slugger will report to spring training as a non-roster invitee, joining a crowded outfield competition that features established stars like Mookie Betts and Teoscar Hernández.
Rosario’s signing comes after a disastrous campaign where he posted career lows in batting average (.175), on-base percentage (.215), and slugging (.316) across 319 plate appearances split between Washington and Atlanta . The former World Series hero was designated for assignment twice in 2024 – first by the Nationals in July after hitting .183 through 67 games, then by the Braves in August following an unproductive second stint .
Eye Issues Continue to Haunt Veteran
Since undergoing right eye surgery in April 2022 to address retinal swelling, Rosario has struggled to regain his previous form at the plate. His vision problems resurfaced during spring training 2024 while with Washington, contributing to a .154/.181/.282 slash line during a brief Braves reunion . Medical reports indicate permanent damage to his right retina that continues affecting depth perception on off-speed pitches.
Dodgers See Potential Bargain
Los Angeles is betting that Rosario’s left-handed power stroke could play well at hitter-friendly Dodger Stadium. “We believe Eddie still has quality at-bats in him,” said Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes. “His postseason experience and clubhouse presence provide valuable depth as we manage a long season.” The deal includes $2 million in potential incentives if Rosario makes the MLB roster .
| 2024 Stats | MLB Career |
|---|---|
| .175 AVG | .262 AVG |
| 10 HR | 169 HR |
| 35 RBI | 583 RBI |
| 9 SB | 65 SB |
Rosario’s best season came in 2021 when he batted .383 during Atlanta’s World Series run, earning NLCS MVP honors. However, his offensive production has declined steadily since that championship campaign . The Dodgers will use spring training to evaluate whether Rosario can still contribute as a platoon bat against right-handed pitching.
“I feel healthier than last year and just want to prove I can still play at this level,” Rosario told reporters through an interpreter during his introductory press conference .
