Friday, January 03, 2020

Topps Living Set -- #274 -- Kenley Jansen


The 13th Dodger found in Topps Living Set is now available and it is of closer Kenley Jansen. As you know, this is an online exclusive set that has no end and is not tied to any specific season or era. Instead, it's a cross-generational brand that will issue cards on a weekly basis and will include both current and retired ballplayer.  Go here to check it out and order. You can see a complete checklist of the set here. Below is what's written on the reverse of the Jansen card:
Kenley Jansen has been among the best closers in Baseball since taking the reigns as the go-to end-game option for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012. The right-hander has 301 saves and a sterling 2.35 career ERA due, in large part, to an extraordinary 903 strikeouts in 605 career appearances.

Blog Kiosk: 1/3/2020 - Dodgers Links & News - Some Odds and Ends


Check out the above vintage spring training press photo, dated Mar 15, 1943, above (eBay auction link). Per the description on the reverse:
DODGER PITCHERS WARM UP.  West Point, N.Y.....Pitchers Freddy Fitzsimmons, Kirby Higbe, Curt Davis and Bob Chipman (l-r) are shown loosening up at their first spring training practice held indoors today, at the Army Field House on the West Point Military Reservation.
As you know, America was embroiled in WWII, so precautions were made to insure the safety of ballplayers and fans by having teams train in more inland locales. After all, nazi submarines were known to cruise the American east coast to sink all ships. Below are more links to check out:
  • This Day in Dodgers History: In 2005 the trade that sends outfielder Shawn Green from the Dodgers to the Diamondbacks and includes $8 million changing hands is approved by the Commissioner of baseball, Bud Selig. The trade would officially be consummated eight days later. In 2006 the Dodgers signed free agent starting pitcher Brett Tomko to a two year/$8.7 million contract.  
  • Happy BirthdayFrenchy Bordagaray & Chris Van Cuyk!