All indications are that recently acquired Jim Thome will come off the bench for the Los Angeles Dodgers, according to the Los Angeles Times. Thome told Dodgers general manager that “first base probably isn’t an option,” and manager Joe Torre said of Thome, “we have some threat off the bench now.”

Fantasy spin: Of course, the move to a National League team just zapped much of Thome’s dwindling fantasy value. Without regular at-bats as a designated hitter, his substantial power is nearly useless. This is a move that, coupled with the acquisition of starting pitcher Jon Garland, has a much more positive impact in reality than in fantasy.

If Thome can handle the physical grind of playing first base once or twice a week, he drags James Loney’s fantasy value down with him. For now, though, count on Thome to exclusively come off the bench and take his hacks that way. The veteran shouldn’t be cut immediately in standard fantasy leagues, but owners should put their fingers squarely on the trigger.

Make sure there are no surprises in store for Thome, like regular time at first base, then send him packing.