Here's an interesting potential solution to another third baseman: Eric Chavez. It's been reported that the Dodgers will work out the former Oakland A's star on January 20 in hopes that he can provide depth to the infield.
Chavez has had a crazy journey in the majors. From 2000-2006, he hit at least 20 home runs, topping out at 34 in '02. For his career, he has a .267 average, 282 doubles, 230 homers, and 787 RBIs.
His last four seasons, however, have been nothing but one big injury after another. It's hard to believe just how banged up he became, as he totaled 154 games the last four seasons. Shoulder and back injuries have just crippled him.
With his six-year/$63 million contract with the A's now a thing of the past, Chavez has "incentive laden contract" written all over him. Two other American League teams are reportedly interested in working him out as well.
It's no secret the Dodgers want to upgrade at third base. Casey Blake is coming off a down season in which he hit .248 with 17 homers and 64 RBIs. Plus, he'll be 37 this upcoming season with plenty of mileage on his body.
Splitting Chavez (a left-handed bat) with Blake could work out, as both would get some starts and plenty of rest as well. But first and foremost, Chavez has to somehow prove the injury bug won't hit again. Can he? I'm skeptical, but we shall see.
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