The Dodgers plan to use Jerry Hairston in the outfield next season, according to the Los Angeles Times’ Steve Dilbeck.
The team has 11 infielders on its 40-man roster, and Hairston would probably be more useful to them in an outfield role. General manager Ned Colletti confirmed Hairston’s role, saying the team classifies him “more as an outfielder.” Hairston does have versatility and still could be used in the infield if needed. He hit .273/.342/.387 for the Dodgers this season.
Colletti also mentioned Hairston would likely take on the fourth outfielder role. Dilbeck wonders if this could make Juan Rivera expendable. The Dodgers can renew Rivera’s contract for $4 million or buy him out for $500,000.
For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis on the latest rumors from bloggers Chris Cwik, Jack Moore and R.J. White, follow @MLBRumorsCBS.