Furcal Headed Back to LA

After nearly signing with the Atlanta Braves, it appears as if shortstop Rafael Furcal is headed back to Los Angeles to play for the Dodgers.

Furcal, who was considered by many to be the top free-agent shortstop on the market this winter, has agreed in principle to sign with the Dodgers according to major-league sources. Furcal will receive $6.5 million next season, $8.5 million in 2010 and $12 million in 2011. His contract includes a $12 million vesting option for a fourth season, which he will receive provided he makes 600 plate appearances in year three.

The Dodgers had been reluctant to re-sign Furcal to a long-term contract due to medical concerns. He appeared in just 36 games last season. However, on Tuesday, they suddenly showed interest in extending their offer beyond two guaranteed years, and as a result, were able to bring back their starting shortstop.

Furcal’s reasons for choosing the Dodgers over the Braves are unclear. But he will remain at shortstop with the Dodgers; the Braves, depending upon the outcome of other moves, might have moved him to second base.

While Dodger fans are celebrating the latest signing, the folks in Atlanta are not too pleased. On Monday night, the Braves were under the impression that they had a deal in place with Furcal before he decided to resign with LA. In response to Furcal’s decision, Braves GM Frank Wren told the media:

“When people deal with you in this manner, they lose credibility. You don’t forget these things.”

But for us in Southern California, nobody has any ill-feelings toward Furcal.

Tags: Rafael Furcal