Dodgers add Hudson, but what about Manny?

February 20, 8:32 PMMLB ExaminerAlex Brown

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially signed free agent second baseman Orlando Hudson to a one-year deal worth $3.4M.  Hudson can earn another $4.6M if he reaches performance incentives.  The former All-Star had been linked to the Royals, Cardinals, Nationals, Indians, and Yankees at some point or another during this offseason.  How will these teams handle the move?

• The Cardinals will likely continue with their plan to convert outfielder Skip Schumaker to second base.
• The Royals will go with the winner of the battle between Willie Bloomquist, Alberto Callaspo, and Tug Hulett.  Mark Teahen could also win the job after converting from the outfield.
• The Nationals will go with the winner of the battle between Anderson Hernandez, Ronnie Belliard, and Alberto Gonzalez.
• The Indians can play Mark DeRosa at second base instead of third base, or go with Asdrubal Cabrera once more.
• The Yankees interest was contingent upon dealing Robinson Cano - he'll be back at second base for New York.

So, what about this move for the Dodgers?

On the surface, Orlando Hudson is an upgrade over Jeff Kent (the Dodgers 2008 second baseman) and Blake DeWitt (their 2009 second baseman until today).  He hits for a good average, gets on base, and has a bit of extra base power, in addition to playing perhaps the best defense at the position in either league.  Batting second behind Rafael Furcal, Hudson gives the Dodgers one of the most explosive leadoff combinations in the National League.  Now, if they only had a big time hitter in the middle of their lineup…

The question everyone will ask is, “does this mean the Dodgers aren’t going to re-sign Manny Ramirez?”  The addition of Hudson improves their offense, but nowhere near the level it would be if Manny returns.  Dodgers GM Ned Coletti has recently said that there are enough available funds for both players, so it will now come down to whether or not they are willing to play Ramirez’s waiting game.  If Ramirez should land elsewhere, newly unseated Dodger second baseman Blake DeWitt could see some time in left field – he’s athletic enough to handle it.  If DeWitt shifts over to third base (his natural position), Casey Blake could man left field (he’s played there before).  A third, less desirable option is giving the full-time job to Juan Pierre, but let’s not be crazy…

All in all I give the Dodgers credit for upgrading a position of need and not getting mired in the Manny/Scott Boras drama.  I still think he winds up in LA, but the message this signing sends is, “sign here – or elsewhere, but we’re going to improve other spots on our team.”  The Dodgers will like the defensive presence, solid bat, and good clubhouse attitude that Orlando Hudson brings to the team.