Jacks-of-all-trades: A selected list of top utility players

The Dodgers’Jerry Hairston Jr. is among a group of major leaguers whose ability to play capably at multiple positions enhances their value to their teams. A look five other top utility players:

Jeff Keppinger, Tampa Bay Rays

Keppinger has played in 27 games at third base, 18 at second base, and also has played first base and designated hitter. He has been especially effective against left-handed pitchers, batting .426. During his career, he’s played every defensive position except for center field and catcher.

2012 hitting statistics (through Thursday): 197 AB, 23 R, 63 H, 4 HR, 21 RBIs, .320

Omar Infante, Detroit Tigers

Philadelphia Phillies Manager Charlie Manuel raised eyebrows in 2010 when he selected Infante to the National League All-Star team, mostly for his versatility. Infante had been the Miami Marlins’ everyday second baseman this season before he was traded to the Tigers last week. He’s the only player in recent years to make anAll-Star game as a utility player.

2012 hitting statistics (through Thursday): 354 AB, 45 R, 99 H, 8 HR, 33 RBIs, .280

Michael Young, Texas Rangers

Young is a good enough hitter that the Rangers always try to find a spot in the lineup for him. He’s been moved around the diamond a few times by the club to allow for defensive upgrades, but he is a solid infielder at any position.

2012 hitting statistics (through Thursday): 408 AB, 48 R, 110 H, 3 HR, 44 RBIs, .270

John McDonald, Arizona Diamondbacks

McDonald has played for four teams in his 14-year career, but he made his reputation as a utility player with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2005 and from 2006-11. He is a better-than-average infielder whether he’s at shortstop, second or third, and for the Blue Jays he also played some in the outfield.

2012 hitting statistics (through Thursday): 90 AB, 9 R, 24 H, 4 HR, 12 RBI, .267

Maicer Izturis, Angels

Izturis hasn’t hit much this season, but he is a versatile defender and the Angels can — and have — used him at just about any position. He broke into the big leagues with the Montreal Expos (now the Washington Nationals) in 2004, but has been with the Angels the last eight seasons.

2012 hitting statistics (through Thursday): 209 AB, 25 R, 51 H, 2 HR, 15 RBI, .244

—Andrew Owens