BASEBALL DAILY REPORT : DODGERS : Claire Not Just Scouting Offerman

Fred Claire, the Dodgers’ executive vice president, spent several days looking at the triple-A Albuquerque Dukes last week, but said his trip was not expressly to scout Jose Offerman.

Claire said that the Dodgers will not rush the young shortstop up, though he is hitting nearly .500 since returning from a back injury.

“We have a player we consider to be a prospect at each position,” said Claire, who flew to Philadelphia to join the Dodgers. “Offerman is making good progress. There’s no question of his talent. But development is the most important factor. He’s got to work on charging balls and getting more consistent on defense. He’s got to utilize his speed on offense. That means hitting the ball on the ground, bunting more. There is no more demanding position, possibly along with catcher, and the key part is to really have him ready in every possible way.”