Dodgers Moving Nomar Garciaparra To Shortstop

The Los Angeles Times reports that former corner infielder Nomar Garciaparra could begin a rehab assignment next week, and will do so as a shortstop. Starting shortstop Rafael Furcal is now expected to miss at least another three weeks, and the Dodgers are apparently uncomfortable with recently acquired former Royals shortstop Angel Berroa, which begs the question of why General Manager Ned Colletti even bothered trading for him.

Since Nomar can barely stand at third base without getting hurt, one has to wonder whether the Dodgers regard his absence from the roster as vital to winning games, and are therefore trying to get him hurt again. If this is the plan, applause for Colletti, but it is doubtful he is that sophisticated.

This move also indicates that the Dodgers are committed to promising rookie infielder Andy LaRoche as a backup at both third and first base.