Here’s a nice little update from Dodger land this morning, as three of the top talents on the squad have signed new deals with the team. James Loney, Hong Chih-Kuo, and George Sherrill have all avoided arbitration, which is certainly good news for a team that can’t afford to lose any more top players.

Of course, I was more worried about Loney than the others, simply because I think he’s the future of this team, along with Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier. While I would have liked to see Loney sign more than a one-year deal, it’s understandable why he didn’t wish to do so.

With the future of this team uncertain, it wouldn’t have made sense for Loney to lock into a multi-year deal, simple because he has no idea which direction this team will go in. We’ll have to wait and see how the McCourt divorce saga plays out before we can see what this team’s plans are.

Right now, the organization can say what they want, but it’s had a great impact on how this team has spent money this off-season, and if they don’t plan to do anymore than they already have, the Dodgers shouldn’t expect to be a factor in the postseason. They’ll be lucky to finish in the top half of their own division.

But at least Loney and two strong relievers will be returning, so let’s enjoy the good news for now.