Report: Dodgers have spoken with Rangers about Profar
As spring training inches closer, the Los Angeles Dodgers are still on the hunt for a starting second baseman, and although Brian Dozier of the Minnesota Twins is still a possibility, they're reaching out to other clubs to discuss other options, too.
L.A. has spoken with the Texas Rangers about Jurickson Profar, according to sources of FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal, who reports the Dodgers are casting a wide net in search of a second baseman.
Rosenthal lists Cesar Hernandez of the Philadelphia Phillies and Wilmer Difo of the Washington Nationals as potential fits, while Chase Utley - who spent 2016 as the Dodgers' starter at second base - is an option as well.
The Dodgers trading for Ian Kinsler of the Detroit Tigers, which was reportedly discussed in mid-November, appears "highly unlikely," according to Rosenthal, whose sources tell him the teams haven't had recent discussions.
While Rosenthal indicates a trade for Profar does not appear likely at this point either, the Rangers may need to do something with the 23-year-old before they lose club control. He's set to hit arbitration for the first time in 2018, and has only appeared in 184 games for them since first being called up to the big leagues in 2012.
The former top prospect still hasn't found his footing in the majors, hitting .239/.321/.338 with five home runs and 20 RBIs across 207 plate appearances last season.
He did provide the Rangers with versatility, though, playing six different positions - including designated hitter - in 2016, with most of his games (25) coming at third base.
Over his three-year career, Profar owns a .235/.311/.341 slash line with 12 home runs and 48 RBIs.