Dodgers Increase Interest in Furcal

After an unsuccessful attempt to sign outfielder Brian Giles, the Dodgers have stepped up their interest in free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal.

“There is serious interest there,” said Paul Kinzer, Furcal’s agent.

Early this week, the Chicago Cubs made a strong push to sign Furcal -- dangling a five-year deal worth close to $50 million -- but the Dodgers have made a comparable offer. Furcal has not ruled out returning to Atlanta, where he has spent his six-year career.

Dodger General Manager Ned Colletti did not make an offer when he met with another of Furcal’s representatives, Adam Katz, on Tuesday. But when it became clear Wednesday evening that Giles was going to re-sign with the San Diego Padres, the Dodgers quickly turned back to Furcal, who is among the few proven hitters in a thin free-agent market.

Dodger shortstop Cesar Izturis is recovering from elbow surgery and is expected to be sidelined until the All-Star break. If he signed with the Dodgers, Furcal could play shortstop, Izturis could move to second and Jeff Kent could move to first. Furcal played second base for the Dominican Republic team in the Caribbean Series in February.

“If Furcal is on this team, we’d still have a place for Izturis,” Colletti said. “He’s a good player.”

Colletti said he has not approached Kent about playing first, but that “if something presents itself, I’d certainly go to him ahead of time.”

Furcal also would fill a pressing Dodger need as a leadoff hitter. He has scored an average of 107 runs the last four seasons and batted .284 with 46 stolen bases, 31 doubles, 11 triples and 12 home runs in 2005.

Furcal met with Cub officials Sunday and Kinzer met with Brave officials Wednesday. Kinzer said his client should have the information he needs to make a decision before baseball’s winter meetings begin Monday.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.