The Dodgers are still considering second baseman Orlando Hudson, one of the best of the remaining free agents.

The Royals and Nationals also have been mentioned as possible landing spots for Hudson, who's drawn far less interest than expected in a difficult market. It's apparent now that Hudson is likely to have to settle for a one-year deal, wherever he signs.

Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti said by phone that they have maintained contact with agent Greg Genske regarding Hudson, even after another client they had interest in, Adam Dunn, signed with the Nationals. "We've had a conversation or two'' since Dunn signed, Colletti told SI.com.

Colletti also said the Manny Ramirez negotiations would have "zero'' effect on their Hudson talks. In other words, it's possible the Dodgers can afford both players

Hudson, a terrific defensive second baseman and one of the stars still available in an increasingly tight free-agent market, told the MLB Network two weeks ago that he'd had contact from the Nationals, Yankees, Mets and Dodgers. Hudson his .305 with eight home runs and 41 RBIs last year, but suffered a wrist injury late in the year. He is said to be healthy now, though.

The Royals said recently they'd have some interest at a price, and there's been a little speculation involving the two Chicago teams (though the White Sox are not a player and are committed to letting their young prospects Chris Getz, Jayson Nix and Brent Lillibridge vie for the second-base job).