For a suspicious reason, the Dodgers are still interested in Braden Looper according to MLB.com Ken Gurnick, but only on a minor league deal. The righty would join the group that is made up of Eric Stults, Scott Elbert, James McDonald, Charlie Haeger, Carlos Monasterios, Ramon Ortiz and Russ Ortiz as they battle it out for the final spot in the Dodger rotation. Agent Alan Hendricks tells Gurnick that Looper is staying in shape, waiting for an offer he likes. Looper made at least 30 starts for the third consecutive season last year, logging 194.2 innings. He struck out 4.6 K/9 with 3.0 BB/9 for an unimpressive 5.22 ERA. The Dodgers do not need another average pitcher. What the team lacked was a staff ace. Though team management is hoping Kershaw can become the staff ace, that is asking a lot from a youngster who has only one full season under his belt. I do think I one point in his career he will be that staff ace. Innings are obviously going to be an issue with all the 5th starter candidates. I don’t see adding another arm to the mix as beneficial as Looper in my eyes is not an upgrade over any of the candidates that are in camp. I see plenty of capable arms that will help round out one of baseballs top rotations in the group that is already in camp.  May the best fastball win the spot!