Dodgers Designate Alberto Callaspo For Assignment After Trade

On Wednesday, the Los Angeles Dodgers acquired second baseman Chase Utley from the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for infielder/outfielder Darnell Sweeney and pitcher John Richy.

With Howie Kendrick out for at least two more weeks, the Dodgers now have another veteran infielder with postseason experience for the stretch run. Kiké Hernandez was doing well filling in at second base, but his backup at the spot was Alberto Callaspo and Hernandez also served as the backup center fielder.

In order to clear a spot for Utley on the 40-man and 25-man roster, the Dodgers designated infielder Alberto Callaspo for assignment. Callaspo was acquired, along with Juan Jaime and Eric Stults, in the trade that sent Juan Uribe and Chris Withrow to the Atlanta Braves back in May.

Callaspo hit .300 in his first 28 games with the Dodgers, but has hit just .226 in the 31 games since. He primarily filled in at third base when Justin Turner had a day off, and became one of the main pinch-hitters for the Dodgers because of his ability to switch-hit. He also was more of a defensive replacement late in games that Alex Guerrero started at third base.

The Dodgers have a day off on Thursday, meaning Utley should meet them in Houston for the start of a three-game series against the Astros. If Callaspo clears waivers, he can accept a minor-league assignment if offered or can elect free agency.