With the likelihood of acquiring Orlando Hudson up in the air, the Dodgers have now turned their focus to Orlando Cabrera, formally of the Chicago White Sox. Normally a shortstop, Cabrera has indicated that he would be more than happy to switch to 2nd base if signed.
First, a look at Cabrera. He's been in the Majors since 1997, playing for the Expos, Red Sox, Angels, and White Sox. If you recall, he was the man the Red Sox traded Nomar Garciaparra for in 2004, and his slick glove helped break the curse. He's a career .274 hitter with a .322 OBP.
His best season was in '07 with the Angels where he hit .301 with a .345 OBP, 35 2B, 8 HR, 86 RBI, 20 SB. He played in 161 games last year with the White Sox, but his numbers took a dive, with a .281 AVG, .334 OBP, 57 RBI.
He seems like the kind of guy that could get some hits in bunches, but will never be one to work a walk. In fact, he only had 56 walks last season, which is about 1 every 3 games. Because of that, he'd probably have to hit either 7-8 in the order, as hitting him in the #2 spot would be a little scary since he can't get on base enough.
His biggest asset is his glove. Much like Hudson, he's a good fielder, with only 16 errors last season. That's good for a .978 fielding %. With good range, he could work very well with Rafael Furcal up the middle turning double plays.
If I had to pick between the 2 Orlando's, I would have to give the edge to Hudson. Hudson can get on base more and is a slightly better fielder. Granted, his health is a bit in question coming off a broken wrist last season, but I would think he's fully healed now.
It appears as if Ned Colletti is fully committed to signing 1 of the 2 to play 2nd base.
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