The Los Angeles Dodgers announced the re-signing of Howie Kendrick to a two-year contract, officially bringing an end to an interesting offseason for the 32 year old.
Kendrick and the Dodgers first agreed to a deal on Jan. 29. His contract is worth a reported $20 million and includes deferred salaries.
Kendrick rejected the one-year, $15.8 million qualifying offer from the Dodgers last October.
For added perspective, relief pitcher Ryan Madson, who did not pitch in the Majors from 2012-14, signed a three-year, $22 million contract with the Oakland Athletics this offseason.
Moreover, 31-year-old starting pitcher Ian Kennedy received a five-year, $70 million deal from the Kansas City Royals. Kennedy reportedly can opt out after two seasons.
After rejecting the qualifying offer, Kendrick entered free agency as one of the more prominent players available at his position. Ben Zobrist was the headliner, followed by a toss-up between Kendrick and Daniel Murphy.
Zobrist was the first domino to fall, signing a four-year, $56 million contract with the Chicago Cubs last December. The Washington Nationals announced the signing of Murphy to a three-year, $37.5 million deal on Jan. 6.
Kendrick reportedly drew interest from the Arizona Diamondbacks and Nationals. However, Arizona, and presumably other clubs as well, were hesitant to sign the second baseman as it would require them to forfeit a draft pick.
Kendrick is coming off a productive season in which he hit .295/.336/.409 with nine home runs, 54 RBIs, 64 runs scored, and a .325 wOBA and 109 wRC+ in 117 games. Perhaps the lone negative from 2015 was Kendrick missed 34 games over August and September due to a strained left hamstring.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated Kendrick may see time at third base. He’s played the position for one game over his Major League career.
