Agent: Dodgers asked about Mark DeRosa and John Smoltz

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The Dodgers have inquired about Mark DeRosa and John Smoltz, according to their agent, Keith Grunewald.

A 34-year-old utilityman, DeRosa played first, second and third base, as well as the two corner outfield positions, for the Cleveland Indians and St. Louis Cardinals last season. He hit .250 with 23 home runs and 78 runs batted in.

Of the Dodgers’ interest in DeRosa, Grunewald said, ‘The interest is mutual.’ But the agent said that the Dodgers are one of a dozen teams that have asked about DeRosa, identifying the others as the Cardinals, Mariners, Nationals, Giants, Phillies, Orioles, Rangers, Yankees, Mets, Twins and Braves.

Finances could be an obstacle. Grunewald said his client, whose three-year, $13-million contract expired at the end of the season, is looking for another multiyear deal.

‘We feel, obviously, a multiyear deal is going to happen,’ he said.

The Dodgers were among the teams that pursued Smoltz, 42, when he was released by the Boston Red Sox in August, only to lose out to the Cardinals. Smoltz, who posted an 8.32 earned-run average with the Red Sox, had a 4.26 ERA in seven starts with the Cardinals.

-- Dylan Hernandez

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