Dodgers Sign Old Infielder

December 9, 2008 at 6:23 am | Posted in Uncategorized | 5 Comments

While closing in on re-signing third baseman Casey Blake, the Dodgers further solidified their infield depth Monday night by agreeing to terms with veteran utilityman Mark Loretta on a one-year contract, according to agent Bob Garber.

AKA, “Smell you later, Nomar”.

Actually, I know I’ve been pretty negative about everything lately, but I love this signing, especially for just $1.4 million over one year. In fact, when the rumor first popped up a week ago, I was completely in favor of it – why wouldn’t I want a guy who could play all four infield positions and absolutely destroys lefties, especially when it seems as though at least half of the infield will be lefty batters? DodgerThoughts points out that Loretta’s had an OBP of .345 or better since 1997, and that’s fantastic. He’s basically Nomar, but better: he might have never had Nomar’s pop, but he can play more positions, and he won’t rack up an extra $10 million in doctor bills. Not to mention that Nomar never would have taken that little to come back.

My only caveat here is that Loretta needs to be filling the Nomar/Big Sexy role. If he’s coming to be our Opening Day 2B, that’s a problem for me. But as a safety net/platoon partner with lefty Blake DeWitt, and an infielder who can still hit and provides immense versatility, I love it. Welcome home, Mark.

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Make sure he walks off…on Patriots Day.

Comment by Bonesaw— December 9, 2008 #

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Yes, this move makes much sense. I wonder if Ned was channeling Logan White, because it does make sense and it didn’t drop into his lap.
But, if Lorretta gets more than 300 plate appearances, it will bode badly for the Blue.

Comment by grabarkewitz— December 9, 2008 #

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I knew that was coming, Tbo.
Pretty sure the Dodgers aren’t playing any 10am games.

Comment by Mike Scioscia's tragic illness— December 9, 2008 #

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Oh wow, the site’s changed completely. i like it. Yea, i agree if its for Nomar’s job, I love this move. Makes the bench a whole lot better.

Comment by James— December 9, 2008 #

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I like this signing as well. The front office wanted to take care of the infield early and it looks like they’ve nearly done it, if all those Casey Blake three year contract rumors are true. Hopefully the price for Furcal will continue to decline and we can proceed to focus in on some bullpen pieces and a starter.

Comment by GKLarsen— December 9, 2008 #

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