Scott Rolen rumors: Dodgers out of the running

The Los Angeles Dodgers spoke with Scott Rolen a few weeks ago to gauge his interest in playing for the Dodgers but, according to GM Ned Colletti, the third baseman will probably end up elsewhere, reports Ken Gurnick of MLB.com:

General manager Ned Colletti pretty much squelched the idea of adding free agent Scott Rolen to the Dodgers' third-base mix on Wednesday.

In an interview with MLB Network, Colletti confirmed the Dodgers had "some interest" in Rolen but predicted he would "probably end up some other place than Los Angeles."

Rolen still hasn't confirmed that he plans on returning for the 2013 season -- which is making the Cincinnati Reds a bit anxious about their roster construction -- but he is believed to be leaning towards an 18th year in the bigs.

The 37-year-old battled back and shoulder injuries the last two years -- limiting him to 157 games in that span -- so wherever he ends up playing it will likely be in a back-up/bench role. The injuries have noticeably taken their toll on Rolen, as he has batted just .244/301/.397 with 13 home runs since 2011, well below his career norms.

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The Reds still figure to have the best chance of retaining Rolen, but there's always the possibility that a mystery team will emerge and make the veteran a better offer.

With the start of spring camp now less than a week away, expect Rolen's announcement to come any time.