Dodgers Rumors: Michael Young Likely To Return If He Doesn’t Retire
Infield depth has been the Los Angeles Dodgers’ biggest need this off-season after they saw their key utility players sign with other teams. Michael Young has been one of the team’s target this winter and they continue to pursue the 37-year-old infielder. He’s been deciding between returning for another year or retire to spend more time with his children.
According to Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times, Young gave some insight into his forthcoming decision:
Michael Young still undecided if he will play this year or retire. Young said that if he plays, it’s “a safe bet” it will be for #Dodgers.
— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) January 27, 2014
Young expects to make decision before start of spring training.
— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) January 27, 2014
Young reportedly had offers from four teams but seemed like he was leaning towards retirement after a season in which he began the year as the Philadelphia Phillies’ starting third baseman and ended it as a bench player for the Dodgers. Young also said that he’ll make his decision before Spring Training, giving him a short amount of time to make a decision.
After being acquired from the Phillies in August, the infielder hit .314 in 21 games with the Dodgers and made the postseason roster as a role player off the bench. He struggled in the postseason with just one hit in 10 at-bats, including consecutive double plays in Game 1 of the NLCS after being used as a defensive replacement. The Dodgers lost starting second baseman Mark Ellis to the St. Louis Cardinals and utility players Jerry Hairston, Jr., Nick Punto and Skip Schumaker aren’tt returning.
Cuban infielder Alexander Guerrero is slotted for the second base spot at the moment but Young, Dee Gordon and Miguel Rojas could all find themselves competing for time at the spot in the spring. Young would give the Dodgers a veteran presence in the clubhouse and a capable glove at any of the four infield positions, as well as a professional hitter that can provide timely hitting.
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