Karros Set to Sign With Athletics

After toying with the idea of returning to the Dodgers, free-agent first baseman Eric Karros has decided to sign a one-year deal with the Oakland Athletics that will pay him at least $1 million and could include an option for 2005.

Jeff Moorad, Karros’ agent, said he had a “steady dialogue” with Dodger General Manager Dan Evans and former chairman Bob Daly over the last two months and had “conceptual discussions” with the team about a contract for Karros.

“But we all concluded [Friday] that Oakland was the most logical fit,” Moorad said. “At this stage, he’s on the verge of signing with the A’s.”

Karros, who was traded to the Chicago Cubs last winter after spending the first 12 years (1991-2002) of his career with the Dodgers, will give the A’s a right-handed bat to share time with Erubiel Durazo and Scott Hatteberg, left-handed hitters who play first base and designated hitter.

Karros hit .286 with 12 homers and 40 runs batted in for Chicago in 2003.

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Dodger second baseman Alex Cora, who broke his right forearm during a winter league game in Puerto Rico on Sunday, had surgery Friday to insert a metal plate that will promote the healing process. The prognosis for Cora -- that he will be out four to six weeks -- has not changed.... The Dodgers avoided arbitration with Jolbert Cabrera, signing the utility player to a one-year, $1-million deal that includes a $1.5-million option for 2005.

-- Mike DiGiovanna