Dodgers Lose Their King, But Gain A Castle

MRI results are pending, but it seems a foregone conclusion that Matt Kemp is headed back to the disabled list just two days after returning from it, with a left hamstring strain. The Dodgers now have 10 players on the disabled list.

What is interesting is that, per Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus, the Dodgers will recall Alex Castellanos from Triple-A Albuquerque. Castellanos, who was acquired from the St. Louis Cardinals for Rafael Furcal last July 31, has transitioned from the outfield back to second base this season, starting 19 games at second base for the Isotopes.

"He has worked his tail off," Dodgers assistant general manager De Jon Watson said back in April. "We have tried to accelerate the learning curve with him, and we are pleased with his overall progress at second base."

Castellanos, 25, has torn up the Pacific Coast League this season, hitting .379/.476/.759 with 19 extra-base hits (10 doubles, four triples, five home runs) in 22 games, with nine stolen bases, 20 runs scored and 14 RBI. Castellanos has been no stranger to the perils of the hamstring himself, as he was sidelined for a month with a left hamstring strain, returning to Albuquerque on Saturday.

Since rejoining the Isotopes, Castellanos was 7-for-16 in four games with three doubles and a home run.

The move adds to the Dodgers' roster flexibility, giving them another player who can play multiple positions. I have to think Castellanos will get the majority of the starts at second base for the Dodgers, with Elian Herrera switching to a utility role and filling in at second base, third base, and center field as needed.

Castellanos will become the sixth Isotopes position player to play for the Dodgers this season.