The Los Angeles Dodgers have reached a deal to acquire Miami Marlins shortstop/third baseman Hanley Ramirez, according to multiple reports late Tuesday night. It is yet to be confirmed by either club, but it appears the deal has in fact gone down.
In addition to Ramirez, the Dodgers will receive reliever Randy Choate. Initial reports indicate Los Angeles will send Nathan Eovaldi and pitching prospect Scott McGough to the Marlins. Eovaldi was a top-prospect for the club, but he has struggled for most of the season and has received very little run support. McGough was a fifth round selection in 2011.
Here is the initial report from Jon Morosi of FOX Sports.
BREAKING NEWS: #Dodgers agree on trade to acquire Hanley Ramirez from #Marlins, sources tell @Ken_Rosenthal and me. @MLBONFOX
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 25, 2012
This is a huge move for the Dodgers. Ramirez has been questioned frequently about his work ethic and ability to be a good teammate, but there is no denying he is an elite hitter when healthy. His defense leaves something to be desired at shortstop and third base, but it is serviceable.
The biggest question remaining is how much of Ramirez's salary the Dodgers will pick up. Ramirez is owned $38.5 million the next three years, so it'll be interesting to see if there is any cash compensation sent to L.A. to help pay his contract.
(UPDATE: No cash will be sent to the Dodgers in the trade.)
In 92 games this season, Ramirez is batting .246/.322/.430 with 14 homers, 14 stolen bases and 47 runs batted in.
More to come throughout the night and in the morning.
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