Because of Rafael Furcal's trade and free agents that could leave, the Dodgers could have as much as $50 million coming off the payroll in 2012. Colletti didn't rule out speculation that the Dodgers might make a run at a major offensive free agent -- Prince Fielder and Albert Pujols are in this year's crop.
He also said James Loney's offensive resurgence after a mysterious one-year slump has somewhat changed the club's view of the first baseman, who is entering his final year of arbitration eligibility.
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Colletti reiterated that signing outfielders Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier to multiyear deals is "up there in the top echelon of priorities." They both will be entering their final season before free-agent eligibility in 2012. Colletti also said he might try to do the same with Clayton Kershaw, who is entering his first year of arbitration eligibility and will remain under the club's control for at least three more seasons.
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He's also interested in bringing back starting pitcher Hiroki Kuroda, despite indications that Kuroda might want to return and play in Japan before retiring.
"If he wants to come back," said Colletti, "I'd love to entertain it."
Interpret freely.