Early on this offseason, there has been a run on catchers and infielders. Infielders have been paid especially well so far, and Ken Rosenthol of Fox Sports is reporting that Jerry Hairston Jr. appears to be the next one to cash in. Rosenthol says, according to major league sources, “The Dodgers, Brewers and Giants are among the clubs showing interest in Hairston”.
Rosenthol believes any team signing Hairston would use him in a super-utility role. Over his career, Hairston has shown an ability to play every defensive position other than first base or catcher. In 2011, during his time with the Nationals and Brewers, Hairston suited up for at least 11 games at third and second base as well as center and left field.
Hairston has also been able to hold his own at the plate throughout his career. With a lifetime OPS of nearly .700, Hairston finished 2011 hitting at a clip of .270/.344/.383 over 376 plate appearances.
Several free agent infielders have already inked two-year deals with clubs this offseason, including; Aaron Hill, Clint Barmes, Mark Ellis, Jamey Carroll, Willie Bloomquist and John McDonald. Hairston made $2million on a one-year contract in 2011.
Milwaukee reportedly already has a one-year offer on the table for Hairston. The Brewers need a shortstop, but are also known to be in the market for more long-term solutions Jose Reyes and Jimmy Rollins.
Rosenthol says San Francisco could use Hairston at both middle infield positions while the 35-year-old could fill any number of holes for the Dodgers.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.