Alexander Guerrero to return Friday after hamstring injury, position still in question

LOS ANGELES -- Alexander Guerrero, the Cuban infielder signed by the Dodgers to a four-year, $28 million contract on Oct. 22, is close to returning to the field for Giagantes del Cibao in the Domican Winter League. The Gigantes reported on Monday that Guerrero would return to the active roster on Friday.

Guerrero last played on Nov. 12 and has been sidelined for two weeks with a left hamstring injury, which seems to be a rite of passage for joining the Dodgers' 40-man roster.

General manager Ned Colletti said on Tuesday that the Dodgers were being cautious with Guerrero, but was confident there would be enough reps remaining for Guerrero in winter ball.

"He doesn't need to lead the league in at-bats," Colletti said.

Guerrero is 6-for-14 (.429) with a double and a home run in four games with Cibao. He has started one game at second base for the Gigantes and played three games, including two starts, at shortstop.

Colletti in the past has praised Guerrero's versatility, though many scouts believe Guerrero's ultimate position will be second base. Colletti said he and his staff haven't yet determined where Guerrero will play with the Dodgers, with current vacancies at second and third base.

When asked about third base, Colletti brought up only Juan Uribe, currently a free agent, who hit .278/.331/.438 in 132 games in 2013 and provided excellent defense at the hot corner.

"We've had conversations with Juan's group, and we'll continue to have conversations," Colletti said.