Moving Dee Gordon from shortstop to the outfield doesn't make a lot of sense

The Dodgers are reportedly considering moving Dee Gordon to the outfield, something that makes little sense.

Shortstop is the least-important offensive position in the game. Gordon's offense is substandard and would only be worse (presumably) as a center fielder.

Gordon's career .260/.299/315 line leaves plenty to be desired. If he could get on base even 32 or 33 percent of his plate appearances, he'd be acceptable at shortstop -- as long as his defense were to also improve.

There's no denying Gordon's athleticism -- he's one of the best athletes the Dodgers have ever had. But heading into his age-25 season, it's too early in his career to give up on him as a shortstop.

He has the tools to be at least average at the position. His arm strength and range are unquestioned. He gets in trouble with his footwork and an inconsistently release point on his throws.

Gordon has made some amazing plays in his brief career and it'd be a shame if the Dodgers lessened his value further by moving him off the position.

It's the team's prerogative to make such a move and, with Hanley Ramirez firmly entrenched as the team's shortstop, I can at least see why Don Mattingly would consider such it.

Gordon isn't even a lock to be in the organization, let alone the 25- or 40-man roster, come Opening Day. He's been the subject of trade rumors this winter and could still be dealt. It might be the best thing for all parties involved.

If Gordon isn't traded, he could be the Isotopes' shortstop, because it doesn't make a lot of sense to make a guy with Gordon's potential a utility player so soon.

There's little doubt Gordon could handle the outfield, but any value in his bat goes out the window with a move. His bat is barely passable at shortstop. In his first 143 games, it isn't passable.

Gordon's position won't matter if he doesn't start hitting better -- something else that isn't guaranteed.

Photo credit: SD Dirk, Flickr