Simers: Dodgers and Rafael Furcal: Is there still a chance?

One day after Page 2 challenged the Parking Lot Attendant to show us something, the team makes this major announcement:

DODGERS HOST ANNUAL HOLIDAY HAM GIVEAWAY

When it comes to hams, it almost goes without saying, but yes,  Tommy Lasorda will be involved.

It’s true, Furcal has been bothered by injuries the last two seasons, but with the exception of Manny Ramirez and the dependability offered late by Derek Lowe, he’s the team’s most talented player when healthy, batting leadoff and patrolling the middle of the field.

Is there a risk in signing Furcal? Taking for granted the guy who looked at Jason Schmidt is no longer being consulted, what do the doctors say about Furcal’s back?

The Braves’ physicians reportedly have no concerns about Furcal’s back. Maybe the Internet has that all wrong too, but if not, a shortstop such as Furcal means more to the Dodgers because they will play an inexperienced Blake DeWitt at second base and a third baseman in Casey Blake who has limited range.

If he’s really interested in winning, McCourt will meet the challenge, and the first batter up for the Dodgers in 2009 will be Furcal. If he’s really interested in winning, then Ramirez drives in Furcal.