When Jimmy Rollins was a member of the Philadelphia Phillies, he had a limited no-trade clause in his contract. Each year he would pick teams to which he would not allow a trade. One of them frequently was the New York Yankees. Why would Rollins want to block a trade to the Yankees? Well, the Yankees had Derek Jeter firmly implanted as the shortstop, and Rollins did not want to be traded for and have to play second base. But, Rollins may not have a choice as he looks for a new contract in 2016.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports wrote yesterday that Rollins is getting interest as a second baseman in 2016:
Source: Multiple teams have inquired about Jimmy Rollins playing 2B. Rollins open to idea, but waiting to see if SS opportunities develop.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 8, 2016
The shortstop market is pretty light.
As we have written before, former Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond remains on the market. After reportedly turning down a seven-year, $107 million contract offer from the Nationals prior to the 2014 season, Desmond has no clear suitor. Beyond Desmond, former White Sox shortstop Alexei Ramirez is also looking for work. The White Sox may be the one team who could add a shortstop, but they could also fill the position internally. Rollins would be a nice fit in Chicago, should the White Sox wish to add a veteran that is not their incumbent.
Rollins actually played second base for the Phillies…once. It was an odd game in 2002 in which Marlon Anderson and Rollins swapped positions for one out. It was a game in which Anderson got a little roughed up and manager Larry Bowa thought a ball was going to be hit to the right side and Rollins would be better able to handle it. So, Rollins' record as a second baseman? One-third innings played, no putouts.
