A few hours after trading Dee Gordon and opening a hole at second base, the Dodgers filled the void late Wednesday night, striking a deal with the Los Angeles Angels for Howie Kendrick. The Dodgers sent pitcher Andrew Heaney to the Angels, according to Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register. The Dodgers acquired Heaney earlier in the day in the deal that sent Gordon and Dan Haren to Miami.
Angels trade Howie Kendrick to Dodgers
The Dodgers have their new starting second baseman.
Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
The 31-year-old Kendrick figures to be an immediate offensive upgrade over Gordon. He hit .293/.347/.397 last season, right in line with his career average. His slugging was down some from previous seasons, but he did hit 33 doubles, the second-highest total of his career. Kendrick also provides solid defense, filling the second base hole nicely, at least for the short term. He will be a free agent next offseason, so it remains to be seen if he is in the Dodgers’ long-term plan.
With the deal, the left-handed Heaney changes teams for the second time in the same day. The 23-year-old entered the season as one of the better prospects in baseball. Baseball America ranked him as the No. 30 prospect entering the year. Heaney didn't fare well in seven appearances with the Marlins last season, but gives the Angels a talented arm with several years of club control.
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