February 3, 200521 yr LOS ANGELES (Ticker) - The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking overseas for some help replacing Adrian Beltre. The Dodgers and veteran third baseman Norihiro Nakamura came to terms on a contract that will give the Japanese slugger a chance to make the roster. The 31-year-old Nakamura, who has spent the last 12 years in Japan's Pacific League, hit just .247 with 19 homers in an injury-plagued 2004 season. In December 2002, the New York Mets thought they had a deal with the slugger, who backed out at the last instant. Beltre had a breakout 2004 season, leading the major leagues with 48 homers. But he opted to leave for Seattle via free agency and Los Angeles signed free-swinging Jose Valentin as a potential replacement. Nakamura, who also has won a series of awards for defensive excellence, is expected to compete with prospect Antonio Perez and veteran Olmedo Saenz for a backup role. Saenz and Nakamura also could see time as part of a platoon at first base with Hee-Seop Choi.
February 3, 200521 yr QUOTE(chi-guy2 @ Feb 3, 2005 -> 04:15 PM) valentin might play 2nd because they lost cora Jeff kent.
February 3, 200521 yr i remember the sox were after this guy....it will be interesting to see who will have a better yr., iguchi or nakamura.
February 3, 200521 yr Iguchi should. He seems to be the better player, is playing is playing in a hitters park.
February 4, 200521 yr Is it just me or does anyone else think Valentin could hit under .200 just because he's moving from the Cell to Dodger Stadium?
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