Dodgers General Manager Farhan Zaidi Discusses Finances
The Los Angeles Dodgers finalized their second trade of the off-season as they traded Howie Kendrick to the Philadelphia Phillies. After the trade, there was something beneficial to Dodgers general manager Farhan Zaidi.
Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reports that “Financial flexibility was a motivating factor” with an addition of Darin Ruf.
Zaidi said dealing Howie Kendrick for Ruf-Sweeney gives #Dodgers some financial flexibility in trying to bring back their own free agents
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) November 12, 2016
With Kendrick out of the picture, the Dodgers have some options to choose from to fill second base.
Dodgers News: Dodgers Trade Howie Kendrick to PhilliesSome players are on deck for the position are Enrique Hernandez, Micah Johnson, and Chris Taylor, and Zaidi discussed that it is time “to bring in a more experienced player.”
Farhan Zaidi mentioned Kike' Hernandez and Chris Taylor as 2B options. Would not comment on Chase Utley's FA status. #Dodgers
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) November 12, 2016
Many fans believe that Ian Kinsler would be the best possible fit to be the next second baseman for the Dodgers. The Dodgers front office will have to determine if they want to spend the money on Kinsler or save the money on bringing back fan favorites Justin Turner, Kenley Jansen, and possibly Rich Hill.
How do you think the Dodgers will fill the second base spot for the 2017 season?
Dodgers Rumors: Ian Kinsler Is a Possible Fit
Hard to believe that Dodgers need to find $10MM in order to sign Turner and/or Jansen. However, it almost offsets the $11MM owed to Kinsler this season. Kinsler would be a good add for team considering how well he hits LH pitching as long as he can be acquired with a reasonable package of players. In fact, Kinsler’s 2016 stats are very similar to Turner’s. IF Dodgers decide that Turner is too expensive over a 4 year period, adding Kinsler would allow Dodgers to go with a cheaper fix at 3b.