Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Santiago Espinal

How Santiago Espinal built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Santiago Espinal is a professional baseball utility player. Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2016, he has played in MLB for the Toronto Blue Jays, Cincinnati Reds, and is currently with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization. Espinal, originally from the Dominican Republic, is known for his versatility and ability to play multiple positions on the field.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2016: Played for Gulf Coast League Red Sox

In 2016, Espinal played for the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League Red Sox, hitting .244/.330/.267 with 10 runs batted in (RBI).

2016: Played College Baseball for Miami Dade College

In 2016, Santiago Espinal attended Miami Dade College on a scholarship and played college baseball for them.

2016: Drafted by Boston Red Sox

In 2016, Santiago Espinal was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 10th round of the MLB draft.

2017: Played for Greenville Drive

In 2017, Espinal played for the Single-A Greenville Drive, hitting .280/.334/.358 with four home runs and 46 RBI.

June 28, 2018: Traded to the Toronto Blue Jays

On June 28, 2018, Espinal was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for Steve Pearce and cash considerations.

2018: Began season with Salem Red Sox

In 2018, Espinal began the season with the High-A Salem Red Sox.

2019: Split Season Between New Hampshire and Buffalo Bisons

In 2019, Espinal split the season between New Hampshire and the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons, hitting a combined .287/.347/.393 with seven home runs and 71 RBI. He was added to the Blue Jays 40-man roster after the 2019 season.

July 23, 2020: Added to Blue Jays Active Roster

On July 23, 2020, Santiago Espinal was added to the Blue Jays active roster to begin the 2020 season, which had been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

July 25, 2020: MLB Debut

On July 25, 2020, Santiago Espinal made his MLB debut.

July 3, 2021: First Career Home Run

On July 3, 2021, Espinal hit his first career major league home run, a two-run shot off Tampa Bay Rays reliever Matt Wisler at Sahlen Field in Buffalo.

2022: Selected for All-Star Game

In 2022, Espinal was selected for the 2022 All-Star Game as a replacement for Jose Altuve after receiving acclaim for his impressive offensive numbers and defense.

January 13, 2023: Signed Contract with Blue Jays

On January 13, 2023, Espinal signed a one-year, $2.1 million contract with the Blue Jays, avoiding salary arbitration.

March 20, 2024: Traded to Cincinnati Reds

On March 20, 2024, the Blue Jays traded Espinal to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for right-handed pitcher Chris McElvain.

October 31, 2025: Removed from 40-Man Roster

On October 31, 2025, Espinal was removed from the 40-man roster and sent outright to the Triple-A Louisville Bats; he rejected the assignment and elected free agency the following day.