Tony Jackson from the LA Daily News confirmed today that the Dodgers have been in negotiations with the agent for 2bman Orlando Hudson. No deal is imminent, but should the Dodgers sign Hudson to a deal of more than one year, it would lead me to believe that the Dodgers are lining themselves up for a trade for a starting pitcher in the near future.
Why do I say this? This offseason, the Dodgers have signed Casey Blake to a 3 year deal, Rafael Furcal to a 3 year deal, and may sign Hudson to play 2b for them for 2009 and beyond. This leave the following infield prospects without a job for the next 2-3 years: Chin Lung Hu, Ivan Dejesus, and Blake Dewitt.
Now this may be wishful thinking on my part, but the Padres need a SS and 2bman, after trading Khalil Greene and 2b prospect Matt Antonelli struggling in AAA last season. The Dodgers need an ace starting pitcher. Joe Torre said as much numerous times this offseason, and Jake Peavy said he would be open to a trade to the Dodgers.
Could a package of James McDonald, Ivan Dejesus, Blake Dewitt, and Andrew Lambo be enough for the Padres? With Manny Ramirez (assuming he signs), Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp, Lambo wouldn't crack the LA OF for 2-3 years. With Furcal, Blake and Hudson (assuming he signs), Dewitt and Dejesus have no spot in the Dodgers infield for 2-3 years.
Again, this is wishful thinking, but makes sense. I only wish I had Colletti's Blackberry number.