A headline with the word "Freeway" in it seemed too obvious. In a way, you have to wish Robin Ventura was traded to San Diego.

For many reasons.

Anyway, here's a quick take on the Dodgers' acquisition of Ventura for Bubba Crosby and minor-league pitcher Scott Proctor.

Pointless.

Though the Dodgers gave up two marginal ballplayers in exchange, they will be spending about $1.5 million in salary, money that could be spent on the 2004 roster, for two months worth of playing time from a guy whose career may be over before Rickey Henderson's.

Ventura has an OPS more than 100 points less than last year's dubious July pickup, third baseman Tyler Houston.

Ventura's numbers are higher than Adrian Beltre's - but given Fred McGriff's non-return, you may see Ventura at first base more than at third base (with Jolbert Cabrera picking up more middle-infield time). And as a first baseman, Ventura offers you next to nothing.

Loyal reader Brian Greene writes, "Robin Ventura since June 1 (136 at-bats): .213, 1 hr, 19 rbi (OPS around .590)."

Robin Ventura has had a fine career. Past tense. He is better than Bubba Crosby, but does not improve the team enough to justify his acquisition.