The Los Angeles Dodgers are starting Tommy Edman at second base for Game 2 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers.
The change comes after Enrique Hernandez went hitless in the Dodgers' previous two matchups against right-handed pitchers.
Manager Dave Roberts adjusted his infield lineup as the Dodgers seek contributions from both players during the postseason.
Edman opened the National League Division Series as the Dodgers' second baseman but went 0-for-5 with one walk across the first two games.
Roberts then changed his starting lineup, inserting Hernandez for Game 3 of the NLDS.
Hernandez delivered a two-run home run against Chris Sale, providing an offensive boost.
Roberts also started Hernandez in Game 4, while Edman contributed as a pinch hitter or runner and defensive substitute in both contests.
Edman remained out of the starting lineup for Game 1 of the NLCS against the Brewers, even though he is a switch-hitter and opposing starter Jacob Misiorowski throws right-handed.
Edman did not record an at-bat in that game, according to Yahoo Sports.
Roberts explained that the matchup against Misiorowski and Hernandez's defensive ability influenced the decision to start Hernandez in the series opener.
The manager also pointed to Hernandez's capacity to battle through at-bats and produce a timely hit.
"Jacob's really tough on left-hand hitters.
Love Kike's defense, and I feel like his ability to spoil pitches and get a big hit is there," Roberts said.
Roberts indicated that Edman remains part of the Dodgers' postseason plans despite his reduced starting role.
His defensive versatility gives Los Angeles options across the field, while the team continues to look for opportunities to restore his place in the lineup.
"Tommy is still part of the big plan.
I don't know if it is tomorrow or if it's game three, but he will get a start.
We have to make sure we keep him in the fold," Roberts said.
Edman's ability to play multiple positions provides the Dodgers with additional defensive flexibility during the postseason.
However, his recent offensive struggles have limited his opportunities to start regularly, making improved at-bats important as Los Angeles faces Milwaukee in the NLCS.
