Results tagged ‘ Dodger Stadium ’
The Week That Was: Opening Week Recap
American Flag being heled by members of the U.S. Armed Forces On April 1st 2012
Opening week is in the books and it has been a real memorible one. We have seen Sandy Koufax throw out the first pitch, Clayton Kershaw hit his first career home run as well as shut out the Giants. We saw the debut of Hyun Jin Ryu and Zack Greinke pitching and Carl Crawford do work as the lead off hitter. Yes what an eventful week it was for the Dodgers. As Los Angeles prepares for their week long road trip lets look back at Opening Week.
Epic Moment of Opening Week: As if Opening Day wasn’t big enough with the game the Cerimonial first pitch was huge. Magic Johnson was prepared to throw out the first pitch until Don Mattingly came out and made a change. The cange turned out to be non other than Sandy Koufax. The Whole stadium erupted including myself. It was crazy to see and how the way the whole thing was played out wasell done including the video on how the ball got there.
Play of the week: There were a lot of good plays this week but I believe this has to go to Clayton Kershaw and his Home Run. The fact that no one expected him to hit a home run and how the way he got under it was something else. Hit a home run and have a complete game shut out against the hated Giants? What more can you ask for?
Carl Crawford was hurt?: From the time of the trade last season and on the huge question mark was at Left Field and carl Crawford. Crawford missed the rest of the 2012 season with Tommy John Surgery when he was with the Red Soxs. When the Dodgers traded for him people expected him to be out at least until June. When Spring Training came there was talk that Crawford playing April 1st until he had a set back which had many fans wondering if Crawford will even play Opening Day. Well late Spring Training Crawford played and made it to start on Opening Day and it seems as if he wasn’t hurt. Crawford has been playing really well Opening week batting .450 leading off for the Dodgers. Carl Crawford is doing this playing little games to really get him going and being eased into the line up. If he can stay healthy then there’s no doubt that he can help this team get into a position to strike.
Slow start for Kemp and Cruz: Matt Kemp and Luis Cruz have really been in a funk to start out the season. Matt Kemp who really had all of Spring to heal up seems to not get it together at the moment. When ever they have an opprotunity to do some damage and get runs on the board they either strike out or hit into a double play. Yes it’s early in the season but you can’t do that with runners in scoring position at all. Kemp and Cruz will get their act together but right now the slow start really hurts.
Zack Greinke Debuts: Zack Greinke was the most sought after Pitcher during free agency. When the Dodgers signed him he was expected to be number 2 behind Clayton Kershaw. April 5th Greinke made his Dodgers Debut and did not disapoint at all. Zack managed to pitch 6 innings striking out 6 batters and only giving up 2 hits. Batting wise he went 1-2 (Error was charged in his first at bat) and even manage to some what break up a double play. Zack Greinke had a good game and makes another start in San Deigo April 11th. I would love to see if he can follow up with a repeat of last week.
Zack Greinke had 6 Strikeouts, Gave up 2 hits and also went 1-2 batting in his Debut April 5th vs the Pirates.
현 진 류(Hyun Jin Ryu): Another Pitcher the Dodgers signed in the off-season was the Korean stand out Hyun Jin Ryu. Through out Spring Training Ryu had to quickly adjust to MLB baseball. The exhibition game vs Anaheim he was fantastic which had many fans really looking forward to seeing him pitch. His debut game was something else. April 2nd Ryu made his first career start against the Giants and was knocked around quite a bit. Ryu gave up 8 hits in a 3-0 loss to the Giants. If anything this is all apart of the process of him adjusting to the MLB. His last start Sunday vs the Pirates was a better game. Yes he gave up 5 hits and a bomb to Andrew McCutchen but he struck out 6 in 6 innings. While some say he had all of spring training to adjust many have to remember he pitched limited games and it’s still an adjustment when the regular season comes because he’ll be pitching more frequently. Hyun Jin Ryu will be in a learning process for a few starts before he can really get it together.
What will we learn from the Dodgers on the road: Getting an early road trip in will show what the Dodgers can do in streatches like this. If anything we’ll see if the Dodgers can fix their problems with the slow start and leaving runners on base. San Deigo and Arizona will be interesting to see. My main concern is the Arizona series just for the fact the D-Backs have had the Dodgers numbers quite a few times before.
Opening Series Observations: They’ll Be Fine
First off let me go ahead and say that Baseball is back you guys and it feels great to see the regular season in full swing. Being back in Dodger Stadium to see the Dodgers in action was great to see. How I missed waiting for 7:10 to roll around and hear Vin Scully start off the broadcast with “It’s Time For Dodger Baseball!”. The Dodgers opened up with the hated San Fransisco Giants. This was bound to be an interesting series either way. The Dodgers were eliminated from playoff contention by the hands of the Giants last season. Since then the Dodgers have spent money to improve pitching in order to contend. Spring Training we saw good individual performances from players like Luis Cruz, Hyun Jin Ryu, and Josh Beckett. Opening Day was a historic one for the books. From Sandy Koufax throwing out the first pitch to Magic Johnson being there to see his team take on the Giants. Clayton Kershaw and Matt Cain had a pitchers duel up until the bottom of the 8th inning when Clayton Kershaw nailed his first career Home Run to give the Dodgers the lead. After that it was all Dodgers from there as they scored 3 more runs in that same inning. Dodgers got a 4-0n victory on Opening Day over the Giants giving Kershaw a complete game shut out. Kershaw was also the first player since 1953 to throw a shut out and hit a Home Run in a opener (Bob Lemon, Cleveland Indians). After that it seemed like the magic was all gone and the Giants showed why they’re the defending World Series Champions defeating the Dodgers the next two games. Yeah the opening series wasn’t something we expected at all especially losing to the Giants.
Looking back at this series I saw a few things that caught my eye. Starting off with the good Carl Crawford had a great series. Opening Day and last night Crawford was getting on base weather it was via hit or drawing a walk, He got on base. Clayton Kershaw obviously had a great game on Opening Day with his historic game. Mark Ellis also started off good as well which shows that him and Crawford can put this team in good position to score some runs. The defense from the Infield on Opening Day also showed tons of potential and had a good outing last night as well.
As for the bad there was a good amount to point out. Matt Kemp has struggled batting this whole series going 0 of his last 10 at bats. Even though it’s early that is not good. Especially when you have runners in scoring position that can break open a game. Hyun Jin Ryu made his major league debut Tuesday night but gave up 8 hits in a 3-0 loss. You can say it was pitching and a number of errors that night but with Ryu he is still transitioning into the MLB. Last night was also very bad with the Dodgers being 1-13 with RISP dispite Lincecum giving up a career high of 8 walks. The Dodgers look to be swinging for the fences instead of getting the base hits that are needed to get runs in. Josh Beckett also was up and down last night giving up two Home runs.
Theres alot the Dodgers can take from the first series of the season. It’s only the begining 3 games so theres no need to panic at all. If anything the Dodgers are trying to get it all together right now and they will In my opinion. Beckett and Ryu will have everything settled down, Kemp, Ethier, and Gonzalez will find there grove, Injured players such as Ted Lilly and Chad Billingsley are on the way back, and Don Mattingly will have a set line up. Yes it always sucks to lose to San Fransisco but it’s the begining. Let the Media and everyone else overhype issues. The Dodgers will be fine folks.
Dodgers Ownership: One Year Later
On March 27th It would have been exactly one year when Guggenheim Baseball Management bought the Los Angeles Dodgers from Frank McCourt. A group led by Magic Johnson, Stan Kasten, and Mark Walter did something that many Dodger fans wanted to happen and that’s take the Dodgers from Frank McCourt. One year later the Dodgers are n much better shape than it was under the old owner. Instead of waiting till the 27th to talk about this I figured I go ahead and make this post to look at what the Dodger ownership has done in one year. As many remember the Dodger Franchise was under such uncertainty. Frank and Jamie McCourt going through a nasty divorce that really hurt the franchise, Dodgers going bankrupt due to the owner taking the money for his personal whatever it was, Half empty stadium due to fans boycotting McCourt, Everything was just a complete mess. A historic franchise hitting rock bottom due to one man and failed duties has an owner. Come the off-season after the 2011 Season the hot topic wasn’t only Free Agency but the bidding for the Dodgers. While the Dodgers couldn’t make any noise in the Off-Season with signings many believed that once they got a new owner Los Angeles was going to be the “Yankees” of the west (Hate that). The fate of a Franchise rest in the hands of the MLB as they had the final say on who will take control of the Dodgers and the Stadium.
Come the night of March 27th everything changed. News had broken that Magic Johnson and his group had won bidding for the Dodgers and Dodger Stadium. Many fans rejoiced as not only someone bought the Dodgers but a man familiar with the city and passion Los Angeles has with this team. Magic, Stan Kasten, and Mark Walter all talked about how they were committed to restoring Dodger pride. Many were saying that it would take a while before the Dodgers get to where they should due to the damage left by McCourt but it’s all worth it. This group was bound to make the Los Angeles Dodgers a First Class Franchise that would win for years to come.
In a span of one year Dodgers ownership have really brought this franchise a long ways back than expected. The Dodgers have the players to contend once they acquired Adrian Gonzalez, Hanley Ramirez, Carl Crawford, Zack Greinke, and Josh Beckett stating that money wouldn’t be an issue for players to win right now. They’re also getting back to the International market with signings of Hyun Jin Ryu (Korea) and Yasiel Puig (Cuba) as well as restocking the Minor League system for the future. Off the field Dodger Stadium is undergoing much-needed renovations to make the 51 Year Old stadium state of the art. They’re also doing more get in touch with the fans which was a major key that the Dodgers missed under the old ownership. Players are greeting fans at the gates as they enter the Stadium, Fan Fest’s being held for fans to further get in touch with this franchise, as well as Dodger legends roaming all over the place in the Stadium. As if that wasn’t enough the Dodgers struck a deal with Time Warner to get their own Channel. You can say that the Dodgers came a long way from where they were in 2010 and 2011. This franchise is really going up and the future can’t be any brighter for this team right now. I for one am happy that Ownership is keeping their word to bring this Franchise back and the icing on the cake would be a World Series Title come October.
Dodgers Fan Fest and Individual Tickets going on sale
The Los Angeles Dodgers held their Fan Fest which was a chance for many Dodger fans to come up to the Stadium and see their favorite Dodger players, coaches, legends, and personalities in person before the season started. Last year the Dodgers held a Fan Fest which was a such a success that they held it again on Saturday, A Month before Spring Training. Like last year, I managed to go this year and I have to say in my view Fan Fest over did itself from last season. Unlike last year I managed to meet many current players and coaches who turned out to be very great people. Fan Fest though started off great for me when i met the Stan Kasten. The man behind the work of putting the Dodgers back on top. I managed to get a picture with him after he talked on the podium to Season Ticket Holders who got to enter at 30 minutes before the General Public. After meeting him I have to say I can see why I along with many Dodger fans are sold on this guy restoring the Dodgers back to Major League prominence.
Meeting Stan Kasten after addressing the Season Ticket Holders
Andre Ethier signing for us at Fan Fest.
Javy Guerra signing Our Dodger Stop Sign and Talking Season Tickets.
Back to the players. The players were very friendly and welcoming to the fans today that it made the event even better in my view. From Andre Ethier, Zack Greinke, Nick Punto, Jansen, and Javy Guerra meeting the Dodger players made me feel like a kid again. The highlight of the whole thing was having a good conversation with Javy Guerra about season tickets and Andre Ethier joking around with my little cousins. One thing that bothered me was how long the lines were for Kemp, Ryu, Cruz, and Mark Ellis which cause us to not even attempt to stand in line for them. The interviews were also very good as well and attracted a huge crowd once Vin, Kemp, and Aj came. Matt Kemp managed to follow a fan on twitter during a Q&A with fans as well as encouraged many Dodger fans to make the trip to Spring Training next month. I honestly believe the best on stage Interview by far was by Tommy Lasorda who gave the fans a real pep talk to pump them up. He told many Dodger fans in attendance that he had a Wait Problem because he can’t wait till the season starts. I honestly felt very pumped up when he was talking. Made me want to suit up and play. You can always count on Tommy Lasorda to get the Fans going. Vin Scully was also a treat to hear and see. Vin always blesses us with his voice during Dodger games and his presence was even greater to see at Fan Fest. The crowd also got its first look at Hyun-Jin Ryu as he came to the stage and greeted the many Dodger fans at Fan Fest. One area that really caught my attention was the baseball history tent where they had historical artifacts from years on in baseball. I was very impressed with the programs from the late 1800′s and old uniforms they wore in the 1920′s as well.
Tommy Lasorda: “We’re going to be dancing in the streets in October!”
There were some things that would’ve been done better like being better organized but In my opinion I was very good. There were some people on the other hand who had a lot of complaints about Fan Fest and I hope the Dodgers fix that next time to make it even better. Many Dodger fans not only showed for Fan Fest but to also buy Tickets for Individual games. From early Saturday morning many Dodger fans showed up to receive a wristband and take part in a raffle to purchase tickets so it wasn’t promised that you’d got tickets regardless if you got a wristband. Some decided to buy online but there a few who told me that the website crashed and that they were unable to get tickets while some were just unlucky. Tickets sold out very quickly. Tickets online were however limited which ment only a number was sold. it’s unclear though if more will go on sale later on so that’s something to wait and see later on. It will also be interesting to see if Season Tickets and Mini Plan demands go up because of the people who didn’t get tickets to the games.
Along with fellow Dodger fans and friends Oscar, Vanessa, Victoria, Hector, and Elsa
All in All Saturday the Dodgers did a lot to bring a bigger buzz and anticipation for Baseball. 21,000 Fans were in attendance for Fan Fest. It pumped me up even more for the season and I can’t wait till Spring Training to see the Los Angeles Dodgers step on the field for their road toward bringing back a championship to Los Angeles. The threat of rain was a big concern but it grew smaller and smaller as the skies cleared and the sun beamed through Blue Heaven On Earth. Cousins had fun, Got to meet players, and meet more Dodger fans and catch up with many friends as well. Oh how I can’t wait for the season to start.
Dodgers Questions heading into 2013
New Dodgers Pitcher Zack Greinke will have some expectations coming into the 2013 Season.
We are 30 Days Away from Pitchers and Catchers reporting, Almost a month before the first Spring Training Game against the White Soxs, and 78 Days until Opening Day. A lot can happen between that time and that has been proven before. This off-season the Dodgers managed to go on a spending spree to try to improve the team. Stan Kasten and Ned Colleti got together and signed the likes of Zack Greinke and Hyun Jin Ryu as well as trade for guys to help on the bench such as Skip Shoemaker. Off the field the Dodgers have been busy getting Dodger Stadium redone to not only improve fan experance but improve the Stadium for the players and modernize the 51 year old stadium as well. As we aproach the 2013 Season there are still questions that loom over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Regardless of the amount of talent and spending the Dodgers did there’s still some things that many are uncertain with. Let’s see what questions suround the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Will Zack Greinke live up to expectations in L.A?
I think this is the key question many were asking once the Dodgers signed Greinke. Yes the Dodgers did pay a lot for Greinke and we understand that but in this case Dodgers had Greinke on their list and was willing to pay whatever for him so lets clear that up. Theres going to be a lot of things expected from Grenike and with him being the #1 Pitching Free Agent there’s going to be pressure on him for a fact. To be honest I for one am not worried about Greinke at Dodger Stadium but when the Dodgers go out on the road is something that I will keep a good eye on. I think if he can stay consistent and healthy then watch out MLB.
How will Hyun Jin Ryu adjust to the Major Leagues?
Lets be real here we know International players have to adjust to the style of Major league pitching and play and Ryu is no different. After a dominant career in the KBO (Korean Baseball Organization) Hyun Jin Ryu signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers and if you look at his highlights you along with myself would be very excited to see him pitch. The one good thing about this is that no one in the Majors has seen Ryu pitch but MLB runs longer for pitchers which is something Ryu does know and is preparing for. I do believe Ryu will be a treat to watch but also is very unknown to many fans in the U.S. I think as the season progresses we will know more about him on the field.
Will Chad Billingsley, Matt Kemp, and Carl Crawford be the same coming off Injuries?
Last time Billingsley came off the DL he really stepped up for the Dodgers.
A concern with the Dodgers last season and something that hampered the team was Injuries. Chad Billingsley came off a stent on the DL when the second half of the 2012 season hit and was really pitching well until he suffered a partially torn right elbow ligament which sidelined him for the rest of the season. Matt Kemp was also bothered with injuries throughout the season and that affected his play through the season. Suffering from Hamstring injuries that sidelined him until the All-Star break and then tearing his right labrum and a frayed shoulder-blade which really affected him through the season. While Carl Crawford didn’t suit up with the Dodgers last season he also was injured and had to have Tommy John surgery which sidelined him for the season as a Red Sox. The health of those three have been closely watched since the end of the season and from the sounds of it progress is being made with Kemp and Billingsley. Kemp is swinging the bat again and working with McGwire in Arizona, Experiencing no pain while Billingsley has went fourth with is throwing program and from what is being said he’s sound confident which is also good to hear. While nothing is out on Crawford they expect him to be the Opening Day Starter at Left Field. My main concern at the moment for these guys is game speed. Yes they’ll have Spring Training to get it together but will they be at game speed and game condition once the season hits? Last thing everyone wants is for Kemp, Billingsley, and Crawford to struggle because that’s never a good thing to see. The key for their success as players is going to be Good health and confidence and If they can do that then watch out.
If Carl Crawford Isn’t Ready Who Starts at Left Field?
This was the talk at the end of last season and the answers was all over the place. In the event of Crawford not being able to play come the start of the season then who will start at his position? There were tons of players thrown into the discussion and some weren’t bad ideas while others were ehhh I don’t know. One Idea was to sign back Shane Victorino but there were two problems with that. 1) Shane wanted to be a starter and was not going to sign with the Dodgers to be a bench player once Crawford returned plus I questioned if he even wanted to be a Dodger and 2) he signed with the Red Soxs for a ridiculous amount of money so he’s officially out the picture. A few players also thrown out there was Juan Rivera which isn’t a bad idea but wasn’t the same player he was when he was traded to the Dodgers and Tony Gwynn Jr who was with the Dodgers until L.A. designated him for Assignment to Albuquerque. Yasiel Puig is a name plenty of Dodger fans put out there and while he is on the 40 man roster and has been Killing it in the Minors I question if he is indeed ready for MLB ball. He hit a major slump in winter ball but seems to be picking it back up. We have to see how he does at Spring Training to really judge if he is truly ready.
Will Luis Cruz repeat his 2012 Season
Luis Cruz was fantastic and was quite the surprise in the 2012 season. Cruz really became a popular player in Los Angeles and a key player as well earning the everyday 3rd Base spot. This season Mattingley said that the plan will be for Cruz to be starting 3rd baseman come Opening Day and why not? How the way he played Last season he should but whether he will make the same impact is a good question. Cruz will be playing with Team Mexico in the World baseball Classic so he will miss part of Spring training with the Dodgers for that. We’ve seen Juan Rivera who had a good impact on the team some what struggle the next season along with Dee Gordon and that is one thing that is in the back of some minds but with Cruz he has the work ethic to be better and help this team so it’s something to keep an eye out.
Is Andre Ethier on his way out of Los Angeles?
Andre Either has had his name in many trade rumors in the off-season and while the word is that the Dodgers are listening to offers they have not indicated that they will trade Ethier. Andre Ethier signed a 5 year $85 Million Contract extention during the season which raises eyebrows on why the Dodgers would trade him. Yes the knock has been that he can’t hit off left-handed pitchers and we all understand that but wouldn’t it be fair to wait and see how he does with Crawford AND Kemp in the outfield with him? There has been the rumor of him being traded to Seattle then signing Michael Bourn but that remains to be seen at the moment. I honestly think if Ethier struggles come the trade deadline then the Dodgers will likely look into Trading Ethier away but with his contract there isn’t many teams who will be willing to take him. I see the Dodgers holding on to Andre because as of right now it’s the right and smart thing to do.
Will The Dodger Stadium Renovations Be Done In Time?
Dodger Stadium getting it’s much needed Make over.
I think this is another major question but it takes place with the stadium. If you have seen pictures of Dodger Stadium being redone or have been to the stadium then you can’t help but to worry about the Stadium being done in time for Opening Day. Stan Kasten made note that it will be ready by March 29th when the Dodgers take the field for their exhibition game against the Angels. Dodger Stadium was in need of renovations and that wasn’t a mystery at all if you visited there. After the 2012 Season the renovations start to modernize the 51 Year old Stadium but the worry is if it will be done and ready in time. It’s currently January right now and Dodger Stadium has to be ready by March for the season but in the event of it NOT being ready then there has been plans in place for the Dodgers to play at the L.A. Coliseum or Angel Stadium. I don’t believe that the Dodgers will have to play else where for their games and that the stadium will indeed be ready by March. They’ve already moved the Dodgertown Classic where USC and UCLA play at Dodger Stadium due to renovations so that’s already one event down. Yes A lot has to be done and it is a concern about getting it done in time but workers are working hard to get the upgrades done and it will be worth it.
Will Hanley Ramirez and Adrian Gonzalez Have A Better Season L.A.?
Adrian Gonzalez is bound to have a better season with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Hanley Ramirez and Adrian Gonzalez had up and down season in L.A. after they were aquired. With Adrian playing in the World baseball classic and Hanley in Winter Leagues I expect those two to improve. Another advantage is that Mark McGwire is the hitting coach and based on what he did for the Cardnials I can see him really doing what he can to help Hanley and Adrian improve. Weather it will work or or not is something we will have to wait and see. If Adrian Gonzalez can hit lights out and if Hanley can hit like his 2009 Batting Champion self then the Dodgers will really be a dangerous team hitting wise.
Thinking Blue: Dodger Stadium Renovations, Hall of Fame, Dodgers/Quake
Dodger Stadium getting it’s much needed Make over.
Dodger Stadium Renovations
For a while now many people who have visited Dodgers Stadium have made mention or noted that the Stadium is in need of a make over, As soon as the 2012 Season ended they got what they’re asking for. When Guggenheim Baseball bought the Dodgers one of the many questions asked during the press conference that day was What they were going to do about Dodger Stadium. Stan Kasten made note that they would analyze the Stadium to see what work had to be done and boy were they in for something. Come September the Dodgers had announced that they would hire Janet Marie Smith to take charge in modernizing the 51 Year Old Stadium. Smith was involved in working with Stadiums like Fenway Park. What work is being done right now? A lot of it for starters but what’s being added is going to be great. The Stadium Concourse in Fied Level, Loge, Reserve, and Top Deck will be widened to give more room in the concourse area. The first 4 rows of each level were removed which will lower attendance to around 56,000. Bathrooms all over the park will be redone which will be 65% Women’s and 32% Men’s which was one of the biggest needs in the Stadium, Wi-Fi and Cellular towers will also be added which means better Stadium will have better Cell Service which was also an issue at the Stadium for people who wanted to make calls, Playground will be added for the little Dodger fans who can’t sit still, Standing Room which means the Bullpen will be pushed back a few feet, and Last but not least New HD LED Scoreboards and Video boards above the Pavilions. The Team will also have a more modern Clubhouse which mean Batting Cages, New Weight Rooms, and so on for the Players. Dodger Stadium will be getting more in the future but this is a great start. Dodger Stadium getting it’s much needed make over is something the fans will finally get.
No One qualifies into the Baseball Hall Of Fame
Mike Piazza was one who many thought would enter the Hall Of Fame. He only got 57.8% of the Votes
For the first time since 1996 the Baseball Hall Of Fame will not have a class for 2013. The BBWAA (Baseball Writers Association of America) casted their ballots and Wednesday they were counted to see who would go into the Hall of Fame. No one got the number percentage of votes to get elected this year (75% is required to be inducted). Craig Biggio was the closet to that required 75% with 68.2 while the next was Jack Morris with 67.7. A lot of people thought Mike Piazza would get into the Hall of Fame but he didn’t come close only grabbing 57.8% of the Votes to get in. This year was basically highlighted by players who were part of the “Steroid Era” and players like Rodger Clemons, Berry Bonds, Sammy Sosa, and Mark McGwire were eligible to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and many people believed and in that case knew that it would be an issue for many Voters to vote for players who have used PED, HGH, or Sterioids during their playing career. Let’s be honest we didn’t expect Bonds, Clemons, Sosa, or McGwire to get inducted but I felt that it was shocking that no one was getting inducted into the Hall of Fame. Many people are saying that having writers vote who gets into the Hall Of Fame is a big issue and something needs to be changed. I am one of those who believe something needs to be done with voting. One idea that could be done is have those who are already in the Hall of Fame (Thats living) Vote along with the writers. Another is maybe lowering the needed votes by 5% or a respectable percentage but something has to be done. I’m all for not allowing PED users in the Hall Of Fame and that’s fine but I think it’s kind of ridiculous that we don’t have anyone in the class of 2013. Next Year Mike Piazza and others will have to wait to get their chance but this has to be changed ASAP. BWAA Hall of Fame Voting this year is just another reason something has to change.
Dodgers To Play Exhibition Game Against Quake
As it was announced on Wednesday the Dodgers will play an Exhibition game in Rancho Cucamonga to face their Single A affiliate The Quakes on March 28th at 6:05 PM. Now before anyone gets very excited about the full team playing this will be the day the Dodgers have a Split Squad because theirs also another game an hour later in Anaheim against the Angels that day but the exciting part is that Tommy Lasorda will manage the team in Rancho. While the roster will be named at a Later date (Spring Training) it’s going to be exciting for the City of Rancho Cucamonga and the Quake Baseball club. This is also a chance for many Dodger fans, who decide not to make the Trip to Anaheim, to checkout some of the young players and prospects of the Dodgers organization and Young players of the Quake Organization and California League. March 28th will be filled with Dodger baseball both in Rancho and Anaheim so don’t miss out Dodger Fans.
Think Blue Fan Cave
In case you haven’t noticed, I have submitted my application to become a Cave Dweller in the MLB Fan Cave and the Support has been growing and growing. There are fans letting the MLB Fan Cave know that I should represent the Dodgers in the Fan Cave, even those from other fan bases. First of all, thank you for all your support and help and keep on supporting. Now that other baseball fans are telling you why I should be in the Fan Cave, allow me to explain to you why I should be in the MLB Fan Cave.
Twitter/Instagram- TrueBlueLowry21
Wednesday Thoughts: Ryu, Skip Schumaker, Zack Greinke Press Conference
다저스 류에 오신 것을 환영합니다 (Welcome to the Dodgers Ryu)
When I did the Zack Greinke post I walked out the house assuming nothing was going to get done with Hyun-Jin Ryu. Well 2 Text messages and a phone calls later I find out that the Dodgers signed him for $36 Million 6 Year Deal. Now for those who only heard of the Korean Left Hander I posted highlights above to give you a glimpse of what he can do. His career stats in the KBO (Korea Baseball Organization) with the Hanwah Eagles is something amazing. In Korea Ryu (Prenounced Roo no Y) had a 98-52 record with a 2.80 ERA and 1,238 Strikeouts. Yes those are ridiculous stats and he’s only 25 Years old people. As he was introduced Ryu sounded like a guy who was ready to get at it. He has goals for himself in MLB and wants to win double-digit games with a low ERA and seeing Dodger Stadium is pitchers park that’ll work well in Ryu’s favor. I for one am excited that Ryu is on the team and can’t wait to see him pitch at Dodger Stadium very soon.
Dodgers introduce Zack Greinke
New Dodgers Pitcher Zack Greinke.
Yesterday the Dodgers Officially introduced Zack Greinke as he passed his physical and signed his $147 Million 6 Year Deal. Watching the press conference yesterday the one thing that I’ve noticed is that Greinke isn’t really much of a talker but I’m fine with that. As long as he can do his talking on the mound and grab wins then I’ll live with that. During the press conference Greinke said that he was very close to signing with the Rangers until L.A. upped the offer. He also said he wrote down the names and noticed that It’s obvious that he should join the Dodgers. For Dodger fans it was a joy to watch because now L.A. has two aces in Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke which on paper is a solid 1-2 punch and can be difficult for any pitcher. I mentioned the same thing with Ryu regarding pitching in Dodger Stadium and how it’ll help him, Greinke made that same mention. He talked about wanting to play in a flyball stadium and Dodger Stadium was just that. With the Outfield and Offense Mr Greinke has there’s no doubt he’ll regret it. One reporter asked Magic about the spending and Magic made it clear and simple “We Want To Win” Thats the attitude that will bring players to L.A. Zack looks at this team as a team that can contend for several years and as a player you want to play for a team that will contend. Zack Greinke welcome to Los Angeles!
Skip Schumaker Trade
Hours after Greinke was introduced the Dodgers made another move trading for Skip Schumaker. This has been in the rumors for a few days if not a week and now they came to light trading Minor League Shortstop Jake Limmerman to St Louis for the 2nd Baseman. Last season in St Louis Schumaker batted .276 with 28 RBI’s 1 Home Run and a .339 OBP. Schumaker not only plays 2nd Base but can play outfield has well so I can see why the Trade was made. With Mark McGwire as the Dodgers hitting coach Schumaker will have someone whom he’s familiar with so there’s something there. What role will Skip play on the team is something we all have to look out for but until them we can only speculate. Do I believe this is a good trade? I believe it’s a solid one but I have to talk to a few Cardinals fans to give me more information on him as far as fielding and anything else but this in my opinion is a solid move for the Dodgers who are very active over the winter.
Bitter ending with Bright Future
It took me a few days. Ok close to TWO weeks to really digest things and do this post. Like Almost every Dodgers fan im STILL bitter about our boys not getting into the postseason. While those who watched were Sad, Mad, Shocked, Etc the Team that Eliminated us from contention The Hated San Francisco Giants Celebrated in the visiting clubhouse enjoying the moment that they knocked the Dodgers away from the playoffs. Thats the thing of Baseball many say but to me it’s more of why. We were so close to making it and it didn’t happen. The Front Office did what they could to help and the Manager could only do so much but the Play couldn’t do it and at the time it was maybe Too little too late. So as I sit here see the Postseason I could only think why couldn’t it be the Dodgers? I’ll watch a little but won’t root for a team. Won’t make me any less of a fan but because what would’ve been that I refuse to really get over at this moment.
So the season Had ended for the Dodgers and the blue print for next season is being made. The Front Office making plans about what to improve on to finish the job, Players such as Luis Cruz and Dee Gordon are playing winter baseball to improve, Matt Kemp and AJ Ellis who were hurt have had surgeries to repair and look as if they will recover in time for Spring Training. Many things will be in order for the Dodgers on the field. Also the return’s of Ted Lilly and Chad Billingsley will be a big help and with Carl Crawford coming off Tommy John things will get interesting in Dodgertown. Also with a Off-Season with the new owners means deeper pockets for Free agency where in the last two years the Dodgers were handicaped due to Frank McCourt and a low payroll. This Winter meeting the Dodgers can go out and Address the issues that this team need answered such as pitching and that’s always a positive thing. We’ll also get to see what Adrian Gonzalez, Hanley Rameriez, Josh Beckett, and Luis Cruz can do in a full year with the Dodgers. With Cruz playing Winter ball and Adrian working to improve his swing to name the few it’s a real positive sign to see that players are willing to improve to do their part to help this team.
Not only will the Dodgers improve on the field but off the field as well as Dodger Stadium will under-go much needed renovations. Stan Kasten said that he wants to keep the same look to Dodger Stadium but make it more State of the Art with more stuff to better fan experiance. WI-FI has been said to be added to the Stadium by opening day next season. He’s looking to add more resturants, bars, Kid Areas as well as adding a State of the Art Dodger Store soon. Yes Dodger Stadium will look the same but will have a better look inside so Changes will be made. Ticket pricing as well is looking as if they’ll drop for the upcoming season. I’m a season ticket holder as some may not know and when I got a call about the 2013 Season tickets (Yes I AM renewing) They said that theres a price break for my section ranging from $9-$11 per ticket. That’s the only indication a can really give at the moment because I’m not 100% sure myself but it looks hopeful for many Fans. Hopefully the Dodgers work on better Transit for fans as well as other stuff and I know for a fact that Kasten will without a doubt do that to help the fans of the Los Angeles Dodgers and give us the best that we deserve.
The ending to the Dodgers Season was a nightmare but unlike us the Dodgers refuse to let it linger and are getting right to work to make this a first class Organization and reach the goal of not only making the playoffs and Winning the NL West but Winning a Championship. The Dodgers future is bright. Yes we didn’t make it this year after a hot start but let that be fuel to the players fire to get in next year. The Dodgers front office is commited, the Players are commited, But Are you the Fans committed? The Future is bright for the Dodgers and we’re going along for the ride.
Vin Scully to return to Broadcasting
It’s Time For Dodger Baseball!!! Everyone knows that line when Dodger games come on and no one says it better than Vin Scully. For 62 Seasons Vin Scully has been with the Dodgers franchise and has gone no where since then. From Brooklyn to Los Angeles he’s stuck through thick and thin. He’s already had a legendary career and next season that career will continue to be in the press box of Dodger stadium. As it was noted Vin Scully will return for his 63rd season with the Dodgers and I couldn’t be any more happier to type this. I usually share my Baseball talk but this is bigger than baseball in my eyes. A man who’s been with the Dodgers for pretty much his whole career is simply amazing to words I can’t even speak of. As a Dodger fan growing up whenever you couldn’t make it to the Stadium or on West coast Road trips you heard the voice of Vin Scully and his stories that he told in-between pitches. Even telling us about the player playing.
Growing up as a Dodger fan you always heard the voice of Vin Scully which is truly an amazing thing that we should all be thankful for. In the future most of us will be telling stories about Vin Scully and how we heard/watched games with him broadcasting. I honestly believe theres no one better in baseball than Vin Scully. Truly the best ever and I’m glad that we will get him back next year to call his 63rd Season.
Matthew
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