With both Orlando Hudson and Ronnie Belliard free agents, the Dodgers are working hard on their quest to find a solid second baseman for 2010. Here's what's been discussed:
Alberto Callaspo - In his first full year of action, Callaspo quietly had a nice season for the Royals, finishing with a .300 average, 11 homers, and 73 RBIs. He's been discussed in a possible deal for A.J. Ellis, the Dodgers' minor league catcher.
I liked what I saw from Callaspo this year, mainly because he was on my fantasy team at the end of the season. He doesn't have eye-popping stats, but can swing a good bat. He committed 17 errors, but it would be hard for anyone to be an upgrade over Hudson.
While I would make that trade, this deal has already been shot down as it hasn't even been discussed.
Dan Uggla - Courtesy of ESPN's Buster Olney, Uggla is one of two second basemen he's heard the Dodgers discussing. Uggla's a low average - high power guy. He's hit 31-32 homers for three consecutive seasons, but his highest average in that span was .260 in 2008.
As Olney points out, the Dodgers would probably prefer defense at this position, and that's not Uggla's strength. Even with the power, it could be a long-shot.
Brandon Phillips - The other player Olney has heard is Phillips. As the Reds look to dump payroll, Phillips and his $18.75 million, 2-year contract could be expendable. He's a much better defender than Uggla, and hit 20 homers and 98 RBIs last year.
It's unknown if the Reds are willing to even trade him, though, or if the Dodgers could come up with the right deal.
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