With roughly three weeks until pitchers and catchers report to Camelback Ranch for the start of Spring Training, the Los Angeles Dodgers remain focused on upgrading the second base position for the 2017 season.
After weeks of dialogue with the Minnesota Twins regarding Brian Dozier, the two clubs couldn’t reach an agreement on the complete prospect package going back to Minnesota. As a result, talks have reportedly reached an impasse, though it wouldn’t be surprising to see a deal eventually completed in the weeks ahead.
Other second basemen the Dodgers are said to have held trade talks for are Ian Kinsler of the Detroit Tigers and the Tampa Bay Rays’ Logan Forsythe. While the two would certainly upgrade the position for the Dodgers, a trade for either seems unlikely at this point.
The 34-year old Kinsler is reportedly unwilling to waive his no-trade clause for Los Angeles unless he receives a contract extension. And the Rays may be reluctant to move Forsythe, considering their lack of depth at the position and desire to compete this year.
Dustin Ackley, Stephen Drew and Chase Utley area mong the free agent second basemen still on the market. Given the Dodgers’ need for a right-handed bat that can hit left-handed pitching, all three players don’t appear to be a match.
Though, Los Angeles can conceivably re-sign Utley for a utility role to keep his leadership around for another season. That being said, the team is casting an even wider net in their search for a second baseman.
The latest report indicated the Dodgers have spoken to the Texas Rangers about former top prospect Jurickson Profar.
CONTINUE READING: Evaluating a potential trade for Jurickson Profar
