Editorials

Dodgers Rumors: Jose Miguel Fernandez Close to Deal with Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Dodgers emphasize a presence on the international market, specifically in Cuba. They might be making another move on that front shortly.

Jose Miguel Fernandez, a Cuban infielder who defected in December 2015 and was declared a free agent last April, is reportedly close to signing with the Dodgers.

Miguel Fernandez was once considered a second baseman but also transitioned to the hot corner. His defense and range have long been considered weaknesses. Despite porous defense, he’s considered to be almost MLB-ready as a disciplined bat. He impressed at his showcases and warranted interest from numerous teams, especially with his exception from the international bonus pool. In his final season in Cuba, Miguel Fernandez had the league’s second base OBP and hit .326/.482/.456 in 314 appearances.

Los Angeles may have added a contributor in 2017. Miguel Fernandez hasn’t consistently played competitive baseball over the last couple seasons (October 2014 was his last action) and being in the National League means even if his bat flourishes, his defense can’t be hidden as a designated hitter.

If Miguel Fernandez shakes off the rust, he’s another infield option for a team in need of them. While Justin Turner, Adrian Gonzalez and Corey Seager are foundations of the infield, second base is a question mark. If the Dodgers don’t up their offer for Brian Dozier, Kike Hernandez is the incumbent starter.

If L.A. moves on from Brian Dozier, Ryan Braun may be next

 

Gabe Burns

Gabe Burns is an award-winning journalist. He serves as a reporter and editor at the DodgersNation news desk. He additionally works as editor-in-chief of The Spectator, Valdosta State University's student paper. Gabe's work has been featured on a number of platforms, including Draft Breakdown and Pro Football Spot. His byline has been cited in media such as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune. Aside from covering Dodgers baseball, Gabe enjoys watching the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Orlando Magic and Tampa Bay Lightning. He can be followed on Twitter at @GabeBurns_DN.

2 Comments

  1. Are you kidding me? Has the FO not learned it’s iesson from Alex Guerrero, Hector Olivera, Erisbel Arruebarrena that projects with marginal defensive skills don’t seem to really fit it to the Dodgers way. Although these massive signing don’t impact the luxury tax, they still seem to factor into the overall bottom line. These three signing alone accounted for over $100M which all were either released or dumped.

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