The Dodgers announced today the signing of veteran infielder Jamey Carroll to a two year contract pending the results of a physical. This move is similar to the one they made last year when they signed Mark Loretta. Loretta proved to be a really good pickup for the Dodgers providing great versatility in the infield and a good bat off the bench. So the question is how are they planning on utilizing Carroll? Dodgers General Manager Ned Colletti has said that Blake DeWitt will be the starter “as of today”. So it looks like they’re putting the pressure on DeWitt to have a good showing in Spring Training and make him earn the spot. A little competition is always good, it keeps egos and laziness in check. From what I have seen of DeWitt I’m confident he has the work ethic and the desire to get the job done. At a little under $4MM I give this signing a thumbs up. At the least it bolsters the Dodgers bench with a proven day to day player and provides the veteran presence on the bench. With Carroll coming from Cleveland I have to wonder if Casey Blake played a part in this signing.