NL West: Effects of the 2026 WBC

Los Angeles Dodgers

Significant WBC participants: Edwin Díaz (Puerto Rico), Hyeseong Kim (Korea) Shohei Ohtani (Japan), Will Smith (United States), Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Japan)

Spring training effects: The Los Angeles MegaStars are so loaded with talent that the absence of a few of those stars for WBC is probably barely felt. Despite the apparent security up and down the Dodgers’ lineup, there are two intriguing – and possibly significant – implications for the team in light of Hyeseong Kim’s and Will Smith’s WBC time away.

Kim’s absence comes right as he finds himself in a competition for the 2B starting job, which should be open for however long Tommy Edman is on the injured list. Kim has shown some possible offensive growth...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

This week, we discuss the "what if" scenario for teams who will likely be sellers as we approach the trade deadline. We also check in on impending lineup changes in LA and Arizona, as well as playing time competition against RHP in San Diego.
Jul 18 2026 3:06am
Tyler Tolbert tied an MLB record with 12 consecutive hits, but cracking the KC lineup has proved to be a tougher challenge. Plus, a newly-acquired reliever for CHW, a look at the CLE bullpen, Jobe working his way back to DET, and Roden's outlook in MIN.
Jul 16 2026 3:05am
The Angels have had a murky closing situation this season, but Kirby Yates appears to be taking over of late.
Jul 15 2026 3:05am
As MLB heads into the All-Star Break, a look at some forgotten players from the AL East who will try to regain relevance in the second half, featuring Heston Kjerstad, Paul Blackburn, and more.
Jul 14 2026 3:06am

Tools