The Los Angeles Dodgers are "making progress" on re-signing second baseman Howie Kendrick, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

Rosenthal reported earlier on Friday that the Dodgers are "considering" the 32-year-old. Talks between the Dodgers and Kendrick seem to be catching serious fire as Kendrick makes sense for Los Angeles, but only if he signs a one-year or two-year deal.

Howie Kendrick's predicament

For example, if Kendrick signs a short-term deal and has an outstanding season or two, then he can hit the market with an increased price tag. If Kendrick struggles early in his new contract with Los Angeles, however, he will become infield depth for the club this season and would still get paid a decent amount as a bench player in the future. He could even find himself on the bench riding with Los Angeles to the 2016 World Series and winning a title.

Regardless of what type of deal Kendrick signs, he will help the club. The 32-year-old will allow Los Angeles to give Chase Utley, Kike Hernandez and Kendrick the ability to fight for the 2016 Opening Day spot at second base. The two that are not able to make it will serve as excellent utility players. As Justin Turner is coming off knee surgery, Kendrick could fill in at the third base position if needed throughout the first few months of the season. 

Other teams involved

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Arizona Diamondbacks are trying to move a second baseman and clear a spot for Kendrick. To get Kendrick, the Diamondbacks would need to trade away Aaron Hill. Do not expect Arizona to trade Hill and sign Kendrick, but it is something to monitor. 

Who is Howie Kendrick?

Kendrick is a 10th round pick in the 2002 MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Angels who hit .295/.336/.409 with nine home runs and 54 RBI across 117 games in the 2015 season. Over his 10-year career, which includes nine seasons with the Angels and one with the Dodgers, Kendrick has hit .293 with 87 home runs, 555 RBI and 101 stolen bases in 1,198 games played. 

The main reason the second baseman has not picked up steam as a free agent is because Kendrick's free agency is tied to a compensation draft pick.