While they seem like a basic part of our world now, years and years ago, back when the earth was young, there were no trade rumors about Brian Dozier. It’s hard to picture that world, but carbon dating and ice core samples have established it as fact.
In our current world, Brian Dozier rumors continue on, unabated. The latest:
Was told by source w/direct knowledge not to rule out #Braves as stealth landing spot for Dozier. Excess young arms (Wisler, Blair) w/upside
— Mike BerardinoNDI (@MikeBerardino) January 6, 2017
The Dodgers have long been seen as the most likely landing spot for the Twins second baseman. They have the need and, while their system is not quite as stocked as the Braves, they have plenty of prospects they could deal to the Twins.
The Braves, though, have been said to be interested in Dozier in the past. While they signed Sean Rodriguez this offseason and while second base is probably his best defensive position, Rodriguez can play all over the field and likely will be used as a super utilityman in Atlanta, spelling Matt Kemp and Nick Markakis at the outfield corners, playing a good bit of third base and covering at short if he has to. Dozier and Rodriguez could fit together on this roster.
Dozier, 29, hit .268/.340/.546 with 42 homers and 99 RBI over 691 plate appearances in 2016. If the Braves were to land him it would be latest big move in an offseason that has been surprisingly transformational for the rebuilding club.