Dodgers/MLB update:

Late-season acquisition third basemen Casey Blake will return to the Dodgers, signing a three-year deal worth $17.5M. This opens the door for Blake DeWitt to start at second base next season, satisfying the marginal gap formerly occupied by Jeff Kent. Given DeWitt is actually a nice guy and is nowhere near 40, this is a defensive and club-house upgrade. But it is yet to be seen if DeWitt can hit consistently.

The Dodgers also managed to pick up veteran infielder Mark Loretta with a one-year, $1.25M deal. Loretta will play utility backup in the infield. The two signings are the first major moves towards filling their legion of holes. GM Ned Colletti and the front office should now be focusing their attention to signing Manny, Furcal, filling out the starting rotation and rounding out the bullpen.

Rumors are also swirling about the possibility of the Dodgers signing Omar Vizquel. The Vizquel rumors appear to be the Dodgers applying a parachute in case they can't bring back Furcal. They are also actively taking offers for outfielders Juan Pierre and Andru Jones. But if either were traded the Dodgers would have to pay for a majority of their insanely high salararies.

Elsewhere around the league: The Red Sox appear to be the frontrunners in the Mark Texiera sweepstakes, however the Nationals have made the most lucrative offer. The O's and Yankees are also in the mix. The Atlanta Braves and Yankees are actively pursuing pitcher AJ Burnett. The Royals are close to a deal with lefty Horacio Ramirez. The Cleveland Indians are close to a deal with Kerry Wood. Lastly a Jeremy Hermida trade is in the works.