Ned Colletti: Dodgers open to signing major free agent

General Manager Ned Colletti intimated Tuesday that the Dodgers could pursue a high-end free agent such as Prince Fielder or Albert Pujols this winter, saying he understands the value of adding a star attraction to appease an increasingly disgruntled fan base.

Colletti said he is more open to offering a long-term contract than he has been in the past. In his time with the Dodgers, he has signed only one player to a contract longer than three years: Juan Pierre.

Citing baseball’s tampering rules, Colletti wouldn’t talk about any specific potential free agents, but said the Dodgers would be open to signing the right player to a nine-figure deal.

“I think if there’s a player like that out there, we’ll inquire on it,” Colletti said.

Colletti reiterated what he told Times columnist T.J. Simers,  that he has a general idea of what he can spend this winter and could sign Clayton Kershaw, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier to long-term extensions.

Colletti also said he expected the Dodgers’ entire coaching staff to return next season.

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-- Dylan Hernandez in Phoenix

Photo: Dodgers General Manager Ned Colletti speaks on the phone at spring training in March. Credit: Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times