Dodgers Sign Casey Blake for 3 Years, 18 Million

The Dodgers have signed Casey Blake to a 3 year, 18 million dollar contract. This was expected after the Twins dropped out because they didn’t want to offer 3 years.

I think that this is a solid move by the Dodgers. They bring back Blake, a very important part of their team, and don’t break the bank to do so. 6 million per year isn’t that much, and it leaves the Dodgers with 44 million to spend in order to fill their remaining holes.

Manny Ramirez could be resigned for 20 million per year, and the remaining money could be used to sign a starting pitcher. It looks like the Dodgers are fine with the idea of Chin-Lung Hu starting the season as their shortstop. The 14 million would be wisely used on a short term deal for a pitcher like Randy Johnson. If the Dodgers miss out on him, Oliver Perez could make some sense. Ben Sheets, also, if his price falls down and it’s a short term deal. Jon Garland and Paul Byrd are some other cheap alternatives. If a shortstop is aquired, I think it would be through a trade because they can’t afford Rafael Furcal and a pitcher. Orlando Cabrera would require a draft pick, and the starting pitcher would have to cost only about 7 million. I guess that Garland and Cabrera are possible, but I would rather get the better pitcher in Big Unit or Perez. The other shortstop options are just flat out bad. Through a trade, Jack Wilson could be a target. He plays great defense, and is available for the right price.

Whatever the Dodgers are moves are, signing Casey Blake is a good way to start it off.