Dodgers Rumors: Howie Kendrick Unlikely To Return

The Dodgers are sounding more and more as if they have gone away from bringing Howie Kendrick back.

Several reports have the Dodgers preferring a left-handed-hitting second baseman, hence the interest in Ben Zobrist and re-signing Chase Utley.

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This, via Joel Sherman of the New York Daily News:

The Dodgers’ regular second baseman, Howie Kendrick, became a free agent and Los Angeles does not have intention to bring him back. The Dodgers have righty-hitting Enrique Hernandez and Jose Peraza and wanted a short-term contract with a lefty-swinger to couple with the youngsters.

Kendrick was solid when he wasn’t hampered by injury in 2015 and has been a very consistent hitter his entire career. He, like Zobrist, is reportedly looking for a four-year deal. Unlike Zobrist, though, he can’t play in the outfield, too.

Heading into the offseason, I would’ve anticipated the Dodgers might’ve been more open to bringing Kendrick back. Because the team extended a qualifying offer, though, when he does eventually sign elsewhere, the Dodgers will receive a compensatory pick.