A year in, Dodgers thrilled with Hanley trade

LOS ANGELES -- Thursday marked the one-year anniversary of the trade that brought shortstop Hanley Ramirez over from the Marlins, a deal that has worked out well for the Dodgers.

Los Angeles sent pitchers Nathan Eovaldi and Scott McGough to Miami in exchange for reliever Randy Choate and Ramirez, who has a .313 batting average with 20 home runs, 25 doubles and 75 RBIs in 109 games with the Dodgers.

"It's been a good trade, obviously," manager Don Mattingly said. "I was really excited when we got him. You don't find many Hanleys out there. You don't find guys with that kind of talent, that kind of swing and ability. I think it was a great deal for us."

Ramirez was typically the only star player for the Marlins during his seven seasons in Florida, and credits the veteran presence in the Dodgers' clubhouse for much of his success with his new club.

"I'm just really happy to be in L.A., this is unbelievable," Ramirez said. "I think I've become a better ballplayer. It's different when you've got more veterans than when everybody is young."

Mattingly said he's noticed Ramirez mature in just one year.

"This is a good situation for him," Mattingly said. "I've had zero issues with Hanley, and that's been the best thing. Hanley has been great."

Ramirez has been even better since coming off the disabled list on June 4, leading the National League with a .375 average and .674 slugging percentage entering play Thursday. He's reached base in 32 consecutive games since June 19.