Friday, February 20, 2009

Orlando In LA?

It seems that the Dodgers have more than just Manny on their minds. In trying to build a more all-around team, the Dodgers looked into signing free agent second baseman Orlando Hudson to replace recently retired Jeff Kent. When talks stalled and the Dodgers uncertain whether or not they would reach an agreement with Hudson, they Dodgers moved to another Orlando.

Orlando Cabrera, the two-two Gold Glover at shortstop told the club that he wouldn’t mind moving to second base if the Dodgers were to sign him. Cabrera is coming off a .281 season, but finished strong hitting .298 after the All-Star break. With uncertainty at second base, (Blake DeWitt and Mark Loretta battling) the Dodgers wanted depth and consistency. Plus, shortstop Rafael Furcal played in only 36 games due to injury. Cabrera could be insurance if Furcal was to go down again.

The drawback to signing Orlando Cabrera would be the draft pick that the team would lose. Cabrera (and Hudson) is a Type A free agent, meaning the Dodgers would have to give a first round compensation draft pick to the Chicago White Sox if they signed him. But then again, the Dodgers aren’t looking at building for the future. They are looking to win now and Orlando Cabrera (along with Manny) could be an answer they are looking for.

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