While MLB free agency is full swing, the trade market has started to generate some noise. The Los Angeles Dodgers have agreed to trade second baseman Howie Kendrick to the Philadelphia Phillies.
#Phillies announce acquisition of OF/INF Howie Kendrick from #Dodgers for 1B Darin Ruf and 2B Darnell Sweeney.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) November 11, 2016
Phillies Acquire Howie Kendrick
The Dodgers have to focus on re-signing some of their own free agents including third baseman Justin Turner and closer Kenley Jansen, so dealing Kendrick gives them some flexibility. By trading away Kendrick, the Dodgers are not only get his $10 million salary off the books, they are getting two infielders who can provide depth; they will receive first baseman Darin Ruf and second baseman Darnell Sweeney.
On the other hand, the Phillies receive Kendrick, and he’ll likely find a role rather quickly. He will likely start at second base, but he’s also capable of playing other positions. In addition to second base, Kendrick played first base and left field for the Dodgers; however, while his versatility is a huge asset for any club, Kendrick took a step back at the plate last season.
He hit .255, hit 8 homers, and drove in only 40 runs. That is the lowest Kendrick has hit in his career, and 40 RBI’s is the fewest amount of runs he’s driven in since 2008. Throughout the better part of his career, he has been a guy who can get on base, provide some power in spurts, and be a consistent bat in the order; however, last season is a bit worrying for what next season and the years to come will being for Kendrick. It appears that he may be entering the back nine of his career, and the Phillies are a rebuilding team; however, he is a veteran player, who is a very good fielder, and can sever as a mentor for infielders on that roster.
The Phillies are banking on Kendrick bouncing back from what appeared to be a telling year for the veteran infielder.
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