The contest to sign Nomar Garciaparra is finally over. The five-time all-star agreed to a one-year pact with the Los Angeles Dodgers that could pay him up to $8 million next season. Garciaparra, 32, missed most of 2005 due to a groin injury. The former shortstop batted .283 with nine homers and 30 RBIs in 62 games with the Chicago Cubs last season. The Whittier (California) native spent his first nine Major League seasons with the Boston Red Sox as the club?s shortstop. He is expected to play first base for the Dodgers next season. Breaking Down The Deal This is a respectable move by new GM Ned Colletti; he continues to reshape the Dodgers. Garciaparra is a great contact hitter with the ability to hit the long ball. He does lack speed and will be playing first base for the first time in his baseball career. While I think Nomar will have a solid season with the bat, I do not understand the assumption of many that he can successfully play first base. This is a completely different position than any other infield spot. I think Nomar would be a better fit at second base, due to his fielding instincts. Manager Grady Little will then be able to shift veteran Jeff Kent over to first. I think Garciaparra will have a successful 2006 season with the bat, but look for him to make more than a few errors over at first base. My Grade: B- Do you have a question, concern, or comment? ? Feel free to email me at [email protected]