Dodgers add Kent’s bat as a hedge

Friday, Dec. 10, 2004 | 9:38 a.m.

SUN WIRE REPORTS

The Los Angeles Dodgers, striking one of the first and probably loudest blows at baseball's winter meetings, reached agreement with free-agent second baseman Jeff Kent on Thursday, signing the veteran and four-time All-Star to a two-year, $17 million contract.

Kent, 36, is the all-time leader in home runs by a second baseman with 278.

With defensive star Alex Cora already playing second base for the Dodgers, Kent has spent limited time during his career at first and third base, so he could land at one of those positions depending on what happens with third baseman Adrian Beltre, a free agent the Dodgers still hope to sign but clearly are preparing for the possibility of losing.

Even if Beltre is re-signed and Cora isn't traded, Kent would represent a significant upgrade at first base over light-hitting Hee-Seop Choi, who for now is in line to play there regularly.

All that is certain is this: The Dodgers didn't sign Kent for his glove, and he will be in the lineup every day whether it's at first, second or third.

"I play the game according to the cliche that if you can hit, they will find a place for you to play," said a beaming Kent, wearing a numberless Dodgers jersey and cap while addressing the media in the grand ballroom of the Anaheim Marriott.

Although the Dodgers still have a good shot at retaining Beltre, who led the majors with 48 home runs last season and at times singlehandedly carried the club, the addition of Kent clearly is a hedge against the possibility that Beltre won't be back.