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Shane Victorino, who the Dodgers let go for nothing several years ago, has been the starting center fielder for the Philadelphia Phillies. He comes to the Dodgers for the rest of this season, likely to play left field, in a trade for reliever Josh Lindblom and minor league pitching prospect Ethan Martin, the Dodgers first-round draft pick in 2008.
Victorino, 31, has been an all star twice and has won Gold glove awards for his fielding. His contract runs only until the end of the season, but he's a far more dangerous lead-off hitter than shortstop Dee Gordon. "We’re excited to add an All-Star caliber player with postseason experience,” Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti says in a team statement. Victorino is from Hawaii.
* Added: Victorino tweets this afternoon, first to the Philadelphia fans, then to Los Angeles:
Mahalo to the @Phillies and the AMAZING fans in Philly for a great run. A lot of unforgettable memories in this city. I'll miss you guys!ALOHA Los Angeles! Ready to come help the @Dodgers win it all. Let's go @therealmattkemp @hanleyramirez!
