Phils agrees one-year deal with Juan Castro

The Phillies made agreement on a one-year deal with veteran infielder Juan Castro recently. Castro hit .277 with a homer and nine RBIs in 57 games for the Dodgers last season, making 19 starts at shortstop, eight at second base and two at third base. "In Juan Castro, we have a versatile guy who can play multiple positions and is coming off a year in which he swung the bat fairly well," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said in a statement. "We're very happy to add him to our club, as he will give manager Charlie Manuel options."

Castro has made most of his appearances as a shortstop, but has seen plenty playing time at second and third base.
MLB.com reported that the Phillies are closing in on a three-year deal with Placido Polanco to serve as their third baseman. Castro would join Greg Dobbs as a backup infielder in phillies jersey.

Dodgers is busy doing research into free-agent list

According to the report, the National League West champions have to focus on starting pitching when open bidding on free agents begins on Friday. After leading the league last season and tying for second in starters' ERA, the Dodgers could lose at least three members of their season and free agents Randy Wolf, Vicente Padilla and Jon Garland.

Los Angeles Dodgers should be able to achieve a starter or two in the free-agent market. The team already have been linked to John Smoltz, who has won 213 games in the dodgers jersey in his lifetime. The Dodgers also have a vacancy at second base, and they don't decide to retain free agent Orlando Hudson. Mark DeRosa, Placido Polanco and Felipe Lopez are among the free-agent list that the dodgers could be considering.

Dodgers will host "Star Wars"

The Dodgers will host the latest "Star Wars" series on Oct. 3 at Dodger Stadium. Fans will be able to purchase tickets in a special "My Town" section of the 47-year-old ballpark. They will also receive a free T-shirt featuring the image of Jedi Master Yoda. Group tickets for the lower reserve section are $35, and individual seats are $45. Full details can be found at www.dodgers.com.

Besides, audience in those sections will be provided with ballpark favorites such as Dodger dogs, nachos, peanuts, popcorn and soft drinks. A special menu will include Cloneburgers with cheese, barbecue pulled pork sandwiches.