Dodgers sign former MVP Kent to two-year deal

"He has a proven history of playing well down the stretch," Klein said. "We spoke to a number of teams who faded or whose hitters had subpar months in August or September."

Kent tied for the major league lead in homers by a second baseman with 27 last season and had the most RBI at his position. DePodesta's association with Kent stretches back to 1996, when Kent played for Cleveland and DePodesta was a front-office intern with the Indians.

"Jeff has established himself as one of the best offensive players in the game," DePodesta said. "He's a proven run producer with significant postseason experience and we expect him to be a huge part of the Dodgers' offense next season."

Kent's arrival may pose problems for second baseman Alex Cora, who is coming off a breakout season in the field and at the plate. When Kent was signed by the Astros, longtime All-Star second baseman Craig Biggio was shifted to the outfield to accommodate him.

Kent doesn't care where Tracy puts him.

"I play this game with the cliché that if you can hit, they'll find a place for you," Kent said. "I love to hit, I love to swing the bat, and I believe that I'm a great second baseman as well. But I also have the tools that allow me to play first base and third base. So I'm comfortable enough to wait this out and I have no problems with that at all."