Blog Kiosk: 6/28/2016 - Dodgers Links - Kershaw, McCarthy and Congrats Rogie Vachon!

Things looked bleak early on, but as the yesterdays game wore on the Dodgers continued to battle and eventually came away with a victory.  Via Doug Padilla at ESPN:

"It was good to see after we spotted them four in the first, Kaz goes out there and throws up four zeroes," manager Dave Roberts said. "We responded, put up a crooked number and figured out how to win a baseball game. It's something that we saw this series, and there were some good at-bats. I liked the way we didn't quit."

Scott Kazmir went five innings, gave up four hits, and four earned runs (all in the first inning).  At one point he recorded twelve straight outs.  Then the bullpen came in and was magnificent.  Via Adam Berry and Ken Gurnick at MLB.com:

"He just pitched better. He got downhill angle. He started throwing strikes. The changeup played. He was a completely different guy on the mound," Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said of Kazmir. "Their bullpen has been one of their strengths. We got to see some of that this series. … The opportunities after the first, there weren't many."

Photo above via SportsNet LA on twitter.  Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodger History:  In 2008 the Dodgers are no-hit by the Angels at Dodgers Stadium, but won the game 1-0.  The only run in the game scored on a sacrifice fly by Blake DeWitt in the fifth inning.  He drove in Matt Kemp - who had gotten on base on an error and advanced to third on another error during a steal attempt.
• Happy Birthday, Al Downing!

Blog Kiosk: 5/20/2016 - Dodgers Links - Dieter Ruehle and the Angels Honored Vin Scully

Forget about the game.  Let's talk about the Angels (Los Angeles South?) class act.  Yesterday, several players and coach's - many of whom are former Dodgers - payed tribute to Vin Scully in a small get together prior to the start of the game.  They greeted him like an old friend and passed along numerous gifts as a sign of their affection.  Via Fabian Ardaya at MLB.com:

"This is no fanfare," Scioscia said as he surprised Scully in front of a small group consisting of former players, coaches and members of the Angels organization. "All the words have already been said about you and your career."
...
Scioscia spoke fondly of Scully, who called most of his games throughout his playing career when he was a catcher for the Dodgers.

"I've never considered myself a neighbor," Scioscia said. "I've always considered myself a part of the Dodger family."

Along with Scioscia, also on-hand was Mike Trout, Jared Weaver, Dave Hansen, Ron Roenicke and Alfredo Griffin.

As for last nights game, I think Dodgers starter Ross Stripling said it best.  Via Fabian Ardaya and Jack Baer at MLB.com:

"Another frustrating game. It just feels like I'm always battling," Stripling said. "I couldn't get the first guy out to lead off an inning and was constantly in the stretch. Felt like the game was at a snail's pace for me, couldn't imagine what it feels for you guys."

The photo above via @Angels on twitter.  Go here to check out a bunch of great pics by Jon SooHoo from the game.  Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1971 Al Downing shut out the Astros, 3-0, in a game that lasted just one hour and 30 minutes - a record at Dodger Stadium.  In 1979 Don Sutton defeated the Reds to become the winningest pitcher in Dodgers franchise history.  He won his 210th game in Blue.
• Happy Birthday, Jason Werth!

Blog Kiosk: 11/19/2015 - Dodger Links - Saito, Gordon and Veteran's Batting Practice

A group of 300 military veterans visited Dodger Stadium yesterday for batting practice with Kenley Jansen, Dodger alumni like Billy Ashley and Al Downing and fellow veterans Don Newcombe and Roy Gleason. Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com:

"The players understand we're not as young as we used to be, but to give us the attention makes me feel happy," said (Ret. Lt. Col. David) Friend, who retired after 30 years of service. "I was particularly happy to see Don Newcombe. When I was going overseas, I saw him at a base in Virginia."

Via Anthony Irwin at Dodger Nation:

Kenley Jansen, who was at the park for conditioning, also took in the festivities before getting to work. He ran the stairs as the batting practice took place on the field. 

“It’s just great to be here for them. They’ve given so much for us, I just want to give back,” he said.

Featured in the pic above is Don Newcombe welcoming the crowd, via the Dodgers on twitter.  Check out more photos from the days activities by Jon SooHoo here.  Below are more links to check out:

• Congrats to Jake Arrieta for being selected the 2015 NL Cy Young winner, via BBWAA.  He edged out Zack Greinke by just 22 points.

• Eric Stephen at True Blue LA shares the final numbers on the Dodgers 2015 payroll.  It's striking how many of the top paid players didn't play for the Dodgers at all... So many dumped contracts.
• An old friend to join San Diego - Takashi Saito.  Via Dennis Lin on twitter:

Former All-Star closer Takashi Saito will be an intern in the Padres' FO. Padres exec Logan White was a key figure in signing Saito in '06.

— Dennis Lin (@dennistlin) November 18, 2015

• Here's a fantastic story via Clark Spencer at the Miami Herald on Dee Gordon; "Loss of his mother to domestic violence spurred Dee Gordon to comfort others."

Gordon, through his Flash of Hope program, is working with children in Miami-Dade County who have lost a parent from domestic abuse, just as he lost his mother 20 years ago.

“I went through it, and when I went through it, I didn’t have anybody,” Gordon said. “Nobody could relate to me. So now I just want to relate to kids and give back my time.”

• Via Bob Elliott at the Toronto Sun, " Blue Jays could have interest in Dodgers executive Byrnes as GM."   Elliott also mentions that Ned Colletti interviewed for the President job in July.
• Roberto at Vin Scully is My Homeboy tells us all about getting the autograph of former Dodger John Werhas.

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Rockies Series Starts Tomorrow - Scheduled Autograph Sessions, Pregame Info and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts tomorrow evening against the Colorado Rockies, and several former Dodgers are scheduled for an autograph session with fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

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Monday, September 14th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Monday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM. The Seventh of eight Cy Young Collectors' Pin Series giveaways is this night.  The first 40,000 fans will receive an Eric Gagne pin.  See it on the left.

Southern California band the Dirty Heads will perform a pregame concert at approximately 6:45 p.m. from atop the Dodger dugout.  They will also throw the ceremonial first pitch Monday. Additionally, the host of “Entertainment Tonight” Kevin Frazier will throw a first pitch. Jim Gaffigan, Grammy-nominated comedian, will announce the Dodgers’ starting lineup. Grammy and Latin Grammy award-winning artist Lila Downs will perform the national anthem.

Dodger alum Al Downing will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Dirty Heads will also sign autographs for fans in the right-field plaza from 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Martinez.

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Tuesday, September 15th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Tuesday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM.

It is also Law Enforcement Appreciation Night at Dodger Stadium.  Folks who ordered a special ticket package in the All You Can Eat Right Field Pavilion or Infield Reserve will get an exclusive commemorative Law Enforcement Appreciation travel mug.  See that on the left.  If not already sold out go here for information.

As part of Law Enforcement Appreciation Night, Levy Restaurants will offer a 25 percent discount at all concession stands, excluding alcoholic beverages, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the presentation of a valid law enforcement badge. Additionally, Levy Restaurants will offer a Law Enforcement Dog for $9, which consists of a quarter-pound all-beef Super Dodger Dog covered with chili, nacho cheese and fresh onions, at Extreme Loaded Dogs locations on field, loge and reserve levels.

Law Enforcement Appreciation Night will include pregame ceremonies. Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey and Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer will throw an honorary first pitch. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s color guard will be on hand for the national anthem. Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell and Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck will announce the Dodgers’ starting lineup.  LAPD Detective Alma Burke will sing the national anthem.

The Dodgers will also honor John Shoemaker who was recently appointed “Captain” of Player Development for his dedication through the course of 39 years with the Dodgers. Director of Player Development Gabe Kapler will make an on-field presentation to Shoemaker and a video with messages from current players will be played. Additionally, Shoemaker will throw the honorary first pitch.

Dodger alumnus Mickey Hatcher will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Navy Operator First Class Peter Izarra.

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Wednesday, September 16th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Wednesday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM.  The first 40,000 fans in attendance will receive a Fernando Valenzuela bobblehead.  See it on the left.

The Dodgers will officially kick off their commemoration of National Hispanic Heritage Month and will be joined by legendary Mexican rock band Maná. The rockers from Guadalajara, Jalisco, will join Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) President Fidel Vargas Sr. in celebrating HSF’s 40th birthday. Consul General of Mexico in Los Angeles Carlos M. Sada will be on hand to present the “El Grito” speech celebrating Mexican Independence Day. Sada along with Fher of Maná will also throw first pitches.

Fans are invited to arrive early for a special musical performance at approximately 6:40 p.m. by Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuellar. Mexican actor and singer Jaime Camil will perform the Mexican national anthem followed by the U.S. national anthem. Members of the Valenzuela family will officially start the game with “It’s Time for Dodger Baseball!”

The Dodgers will also join Major League Baseball in celebrating Roberto Clemente Day. As part of the league-wide celebration, the Dodgers will recognize their 2015 Roberto Clemente Award, All-Star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. 

Dodger alum Al Ferrara will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Edgar Valles.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) conducts silent auctions throughout the season featuring more than 25 signed pieces of memorabilia from Dodger players, coaches and alumni. Auctions will take place behind the Vin Scully press box on the club level. The items up for auction on Wednesday include an Andre Ethier autographed photo, Zack Greinke autographed baseball and Joc Pederson autographed Dodger jersey. The auction will end at 8:45 p.m.

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Reds Series Starts Tomorrow - Scheduled Autograph Sessions, Pregame Info and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts tomorrow evening against the Cincinnati Reds, and several former Dodgers are scheduled for an autograph session with fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

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Thursday, August 13th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Thursday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM.  The first 40,000 fans in attendance will receive a Sandy Koufax bobblehead.  See it on the left.

Dodger alum Derrel Thomas will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• The Military Heroes of the Game are U.S. Navy Petty Officer Third Class Bailey Whitlow of Midlothian, TX, and U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Carlos Rivera of Oxnard.

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Friday, August 14th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Friday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM. It is Friday Night Fireworks, so fans will be able to go down onto the field after the game to watch the spectacle. The theme will be set to songs chosen by Dodger players with a playlist put together by Scott Van Slyke.  Go here for information about future firework themes.

There will also be a balloon artist in the left-field plaza. DJ Adam will provide musical entertainment in the right-field plaza from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. As part of ThinkCure! weekend, Jacob Lusk will perform the national anthem.

Dodger alum Matt Luke will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• The Military Heroes of the Game are U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Andy Smirnov of Los Angeles and U.S. Army Sergeant Blake Blaney of San Pedro.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) conducts silent auctions throughout the season featuring more than 25 signed pieces of memorabilia from Dodger players, coaches and alumni. Auctions will take place behind the Vin Scully press box on the Club level. The items up for auction on Friday include a Zack Greinke autographed photo, Clayton Kershaw autographed baseball and Joc Pederson autographed Dodger jersey. The auction will end at 8:45 p.m.
• The Dodgers will also celebrate NeedleArts at the 10th annual Stitch N’ Pitch Night at Dodger Stadium and part of their group outing, hundreds will be in attendance to knit, crochet, embroider, cross-stitch and needlepoint during the game. Tickets are still available for purchase by visiting www.dodgers.com/stitchnpitch.
• #ThinkCureWeekend 2015 will take place Friday and Saturday at Dodger Stadium and will raise both awareness and funds for ThinkCure!, an official charity of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Throughout the weekend, courageous cancer patients and survivors will be recognized. A tribute will also be paid to the hard-working healthcare workers and researchers that are on the front lines of the fight against cancer.

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Saturday, August 15th at 6:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Saturday's game starts at 6:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 3:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 4:10 PM.  It is Movie Night at Dodger Stadium.  The club will treat fans to “Back to the Future,” and it will be screened for fans following Saturday’s game. Screenings are free with a game-day ticket. Fans sitting in the right field pavilion and left field pavilion will be invited down to the field postgame for a better viewing experience.

It is also Girl Scout Night at Dodger Stadium.  Folks who ordered a special ticket package in the All You Can Eat Right Field Pavilion or Infield Reserve will get an exclusive Girl Scout patch with your ticket.  See that on the left.  If not already sold out go here for information.

DJ Adam will provide entertainment in the right-field pavilion plaza, DJ Lady Sha will provide music in the left-field reserve plaza and classic rock band, The Trip, will play in the right-field reserve plaza from 4:15 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Fans can take photos with the DeLorean car from “Back to the Future” behind the right-field pavilion from 3:10 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

“Back to the Future” star Leah Thompson will throw the ceremonial first pitch. As part of ThinkCure! weekend, Terron Brooks will perform the national anthem.

Dodger alumnus Al Ferrara will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Tyler Richards of Temecula.

• #ThinkCureWeekend 2015 will take place Friday and Saturday at Dodger Stadium and will raise both awareness and funds for ThinkCure!, an official charity of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Throughout the weekend, courageous cancer patients and survivors will be recognized. A tribute will also be paid to the hard-working healthcare workers and researchers that are on the front lines of the fight against cancer.

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Sunday, August 16th at 1:10 PM
SNLA/AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Sunday's game starts at 1:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 10:40 AM, and stadium gates open at 11:10 AM.  The first 40,000 fans in attendance will receive a Dodgers spray bottle with fan.  See it on the left.

Viva Los Dodgers will take place in lot 6 starting at 11:10 a.m. Dodger alum Mickey Hatcher will sign autographs for fans from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Musical entertainment will be provided by Mariachi Flor De Toloache and Quitapenas.

Stunt performer, comedian, actor, screenwriter and film producer best known as a co-creator and star of “Jackass” Johnny Knoxville will throw the ceremonial first pitch. The Katinas will perform the national anthem.

Dodger alum Al Downing will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The Dodgers will present their annual Christian Faith Day on Sunday. All fans are invited to bring their gently used clothing and shoes to be donated to the Dream Center and stay after the game to celebrate family and fellowship with Dodgers A.J. Ellis, Adrian Gonzalez, Clayton Kershaw and Scott Van Slyke, who will share their personal testimonies on faith. A special postgame performance is scheduled by the Katinas. 

This afternoon is also Carnita Asada Sunday after the game at Dodger Stadium.  Go here for information.  Fans can enjoy an authentic Mexican Carne Asada cookout hosted by Justin Turner and presented by Chef Merito.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Kyle Potter of Newbury Park.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) conducts silent auctions throughout the season featuring more than 25 signed pieces of memorabilia from Dodger players, coaches and alumni. Auctions will take place behind the Vin Scully press box on the Club level. The items up for auction on Sunday include a Kenley Jansen autographed photo, Yasiel Puig autographed baseball and Adrian Gonzalez autographed Dodger jersey. The auction will end at 2:45 p.m.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

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Mets Series Starts Tomorrow - Scheduled Autograph Sessions, Pregame Info and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts tomorrow against the New York Mets, and several former Dodgers are scheduled for an autograph session with fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

Tommy Lasorda’s Trattoria will be offering the BLT Pizza during this homestand.  It features a fresh dough pizza slice with shredded mozzarella cheese, Applewood smoked bacon, topped with shredded iceberg lettuce, diced tomatoes and drizzled with creamy Ranch dressing.  Check out a pic of it on the left.

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Friday, July 3rd at 7:10 PM
RHP Noah Syndergaard vs. LHP Clayton Kershaw
ESPN / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Friday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM. It is Friday Night Fireworks, so fans will be able to go down onto the field after the game to watch the spectacle. The theme will be Country Rock Music featuring classic country songs covered by rock artists: Buck Owens covered by The Beatles, Merle Haggard covered by The Grateful Dead, Marty Robbins covered by Old 97’s, Dolly Parton covered by The White Stripes and Johnny Cash covered by Social Distortion.  Go here for information about future firework themes.

Dodger alumnus Mickey Hatcher will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Kris Preston. 
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) conducts silent auctions throughout the season featuring more than 25 signed pieces of memorabilia from Dodger players, coaches and alumni. Auctions will take place behind the Vin Scully press box on the club level. The items up for auction on Friday include a Joc Pederson autographed photo, Zack Greinke autographed baseball and Clayton Kershaw autographed Dodger jersey. The auction will end at 8:45 p.m.

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Saturday, July 4th at 4:15 PM
RHP Matt Harvey vs. RHP Zack Greinke

 FOX / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Saturday's game starts at 4:15 PM.  Auto gates open at 1:45 PM, and stadium gates open at 2:15 PM.

The Extreme Loaded Dogs stands will be offering the Independence Day Dog on the 4th of July, only.  It consists of a quarter pound all beef Super Dodger Dog served with Applewood smoked bacon, pickled chips, potato salad and pickled red onions.  Check out a pic of it on the left.

A 4th of July Postgame Musical Performance and Fireworks Show will be presented by Kurios From Cirque Du Soleil.  Fans are invited to enjoy both a patriotic musical performance by the USO Show Troupe and 4th of July fireworks spectacular.

U.S. Coast Guard Second Class Petty Officer Mike Dalager, accompanied by Grand Folk Railroad guitarist Bruce Kulick, will perform the national anthem. U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Maria Guerra of Chino Hills and U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Samara Arias of Van Nuys will both throw a ceremonial first pitch. A color guard unit will be on hand and a giant flag will be unfurled in center field by more than 100 members of all branches of the military – U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Coast Guard.

Dodger alumnus Al Downing will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

• The Military Heroes of the Game are U.S. Navy E4 Bobby Prevost and U.S. Navy E4 Kelly Prevost.

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Sunday, July 5th at 1:10 PM
LHP Steven Matz vs. RHP Mike Bolsinger

 SNLA/AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Sunday's game starts at 1:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 10:40 AM, and stadium gates open at 11:10 AM.  It is Photo Day and fans are invited to take photos of their favorite Dodgers on the field prior to the game. Fans can enter the field through center field and photos opportunities will take place from 11:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Fans can take photos of players, but are asked not to ask for photos with players. Autographs will also not be permitted.

Viva Los Dodgers will be at the historic 76 station beginning at 11:00 a.m. and will feature musical entertainment by DJ Raul Campos and Ballet Folklorico Otomi. Dodger broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela will make a special appearance from approximately 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Valenzuela will take photos with fans and fans will receive a complimentary photo printout courtesy of Blue Print.

Former Miss Nevada, Ellie Smith, will perform the national anthem.

Dodger alumnus Kenny Landreaux will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion plaza from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Justin Lits.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) conducts silent auctions throughout the season featuring more than 25 signed pieces of memorabilia from Dodger players, coaches and alumni. Auctions will take place behind the Vin Scully press box on the club level. The items up for auction on Sunday include an Andre Ethier autographed photo, Adrian Gonzalez autographed baseball and Yasiel Puig autographed Dodger jersey. The auction will end at 2:45 p.m.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

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Diamondbacks Series Starts Tomorrow - Scheduled Autograph Sessions,Pregame Info and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts tomorrow against the Arizona Diamondbacks, and several former Dodgers' are scheduled for an autograph session with fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

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Monday, June 8th at 7:10 PM

SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Monday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.

It is also Firefighter Appreciation Night at Dodger Stadium.  Folks who ordered a special ticket package in the All You Can Eat Right Field Pavilion or Infield Reserve will get an exclusive Firefighter Appreciation Night T-Shirt with your ticket.  See that on the left.  If not already sold out go here for information.

For Firefighter Appreciation Night, Levy Restaurants will offer the Firehouse Dog. The Firehouse Dog is a quarter pound all-beef hot dog smothered in spicy nacho cheese sauce and topped with jalapeño wheels and flaming hot Cheetos (Mmmmm!). It will be sold Monday only at Extreme Loaded Dog locations located on the field, loge and reserve levels.

(pic via @Lord_of_Buffet on twitter)

Bryce Ryness, lead in the national tour of the Tony award-winning musical “Matilda,” will perform the national anthem and three-time WNBA MVP and a four-time Olympic gold medal winner Lisa Leslie will throw the ceremonial first pitch.

Dodger alumnus Kenny Landreaux will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Smokey the Bear will be on hand for photo opportunities with fans in both the left and right-field plazas.

• The Military Hero of the Game is US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Walter Jimenez of Long Beach. Jimenez first served as a nuclear missile operations officer in Montana followed by assignments as a missile test officer, launch director, missile attack early warning operator, and he flew spy satellites and was also program manager for a major defense weapons program. His 23rd year in service has been spent in the space operations satellite rocket launches and nuclear missile operations field. Jimenez has served in four states, in 10 countries and on nine assignments and is currently stationed at Vandenberg Air Force base on California’s central coast.

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Tuesday, June 9th at 7:10 PM

SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Tuesday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM.  The first 40,000 fans will receive an oc Pederson T-Shirt.  See it on the right.

R&B recording artist TQ will perform the national anthem.

Dodger alumnus Al Ferrara will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Army Sergeant Chad Garcia of Bakersfield. Garcia earned his Combat Infantry Badge while serving in Afghanistan and retired from service in last year.  

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Wednesday, June 10th at 7:10 PM

SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Wednesday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.

It is also Filipino Heritage Night at Dodger Stadium.  Folks who ordered a special ticket package in the All You Can Eat Right Field Pavilion or Infield Reserve will get an exclusive Filipino Heritage Night T-Shirt with your ticket.  See that on the left.  If not already sold out go here for information.

(pic via 714_Matias on instagram)

UPDATE: They offered a Filipino Dog at the Extreme Loaded Dogstands that includes spam, chicharron, pineapple and an onion suace with a Dodger dog.

The Filharmonic will perform pregame and sing the national anthem as part of Filipino Heritage Night.

Dodger alumnus Al Downing will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Navy Operation Specialist Second Class Anna Gallegos of Pomona. Gallegos joined the Navy after graduating high school and was stationed as an Operation Specialist on board the USS Howard. During the ship’s deployments, she assisted in counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia and provided humanitarian assistance to the Philippines after the 2008 typhoon. She served a deployment to Camp Lemmonier in Djbouti, Africa, for one year and also served a deployment to DaNang Province, Vietnam. Gallegos will depart on her third deployment this summer to the Arabian Gulf.

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Braves Series Starts Tomorrow - Scheduled Autograph Sessions, Pregame Info and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts tomorrow against the Atlanta Braves, and several former Dodgers are scheduled for an autograph session with fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

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Monday, May 25th at 5:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Monday's game starts at 5:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 2:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 3:10 PM.  The first 40,000 fans will receive an Tommy Lasorda Garden Gnome.  See it on the left.

Monday is Memorial Day and the Dodgers, along with all of MLB, will again participate in the National Moment of Remembrance during Memorial Day Weekend.  The Dodgers will wear specially-designed caps and jerseys Monday. All of MLB’s net proceeds from the sale of these caps and jerseys will be donated to the Welcome Back Veterans program, which provides grants to university hospitals throughout the country to treat veterans suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injury.

Memorial pre-game ceremonies will include a flyover by three heritage planes, a P15D Mustang, P63 Cobra and T28 Trojan, from the Palm Springs Air Museum. The U.S. Army will provide a color guard. Five representatives from each military branch of service, 25 Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines and Navy service men and women, will throw the ceremonial first pitch. Tuskegee Airman 95 year-old Lieutenant Colonel Robert Friend will officially start the game with “It’s time for Dodger baseball!” The U.S. Department of Defense will also have a Memorial Day PSA that will play on DodgerVision prior to the game. A POW/MIA chair dedication will take place and 300 military families from various military branches will be in attendance. Eight youngsters from military families will partake in Kids Take the Field Monday. The national anthem and will be performed by U.S. Army National Guard Sergeant Vicki Goulding, former U.S. Army Sergeant Victor Hurtado and Lisa Pratt, Operation Rising Star winner and military spouse.  Bank of America Executive Director of New Directions Gregory Scott will throw a first pitch.

Dodger alumnus Al Downing will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 5:00 PM. to 7:00 PM.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Army Captain Christopher Kahn of Clovis. Kahn enlisted in the Army 16 years ago, has served a deployment to Kuwait as part of Operation Desert Spring and to Baghdad, Iraq as part of Operation Thunder Run and with the 82nd Airborne Division as part of the OIF and Operation New Dawn. Kahn has served in South Korea the past two years where he was selected by the Army’s ACS program to attend graduate school.

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Tuesday, May 26th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Tuesday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM. 

Jerry Vivino, saxophonist in the house band for the Conan O’Brien show, will perform the national anthem.

Dodger alumnus Tim Leary will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant E5 Ladarrius Robinson of Minden, Louisiana. Robinson attended Grambling State University in 2003 and enlisted in the Marines after graduation. He served a deployment to Fallujah, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom III and served as part of the largest combat deployed battalion in Marine Corps history, 3rd Batallion 4th Marines. He also served deployments to Al-Qa’im, Iraqui and Anah Iraq with Weapons company mobile assault Platoons, Scout Snipers and Lima company in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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Wednesday, April 29th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Wednesday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM.  The first 40,000 fans will receive an Dodgers coaster set.  See it on the left.

Saxophonist Michael Lington will perform the national anthem.  Los Angeles Chief of Police Charlie Beck and L.A. County Sheriff Jim McDonnell will throw the ceremonial first pitch and will join the Dodgers in announcing the re-launch of a fan-favorite program where officers will distribute Dodger baseball cards to children and families while on patrol. In 2015, the program returns with the addition of L.A. County Sheriffs. In total, nearly 10,000 LAPD officers and 10,000 sheriff’s deputies will carry Dodgers baseball cards with them while on patrol this season.

Dodger alumnus Lee Lacy will sign autographs in the left-field pavilion from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Manuel Lopez of Compton. Lopez enlisted in 1998, served as an assault man for six years before being deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He also served in Operation Noble Eagle, an anti-terrorist force assigned to the west coast of the U.S. after September 11.

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Marlins Series Starts Tomorrow - Scheduled Autograph Sessions, Pregame Info and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts tomorrow against the Miami Marlins, and several former Dodgers' are scheduled for an autograph session with fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

For this series only the Extreme Loaded Dog concession will be offering a Cuban Dog that features a quarter-pound all-beef hot dog topped with ham, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, yellow mustard and pickle chips.  The Think Blue BBQ will also offer Caribbean Sticky Ribs - pork spare ribs with pineapple barbeque sauce, ghost pepper and molasses marinade and it will be served with tropical cole slaw.

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Monday, May 11th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Monday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.  It is Cuban Heritage Night at Dodger Stadium.  Folks who ordered a special ticket package in the All You Can Eat Right Field Pavilion or Infield Reserve will get an exclusive Cuban Heritage Dodger T-shirt with your ticket.  See that on the left.  If not already sold out go here for information.

Archbishop José H. Gomez will also throw a first pitch in celebration of the 5th annual Catholic Schools Night at Dodger Stadium. Cuban-American actor, director and Academy Award nominee Andy Garcia will also throw an ceremonial first pitch. Two-time Grammy nominee Karina Nuvo will perform the national anthem. Yasiel Puig will join in the Cuba Night fun by by participating in pregame ceremonies.

Dodger alumnus Lee Lacy will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Pantages will offer a “Motown the Musical” blue carpet photo opportunity in the left-field plaza.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Felix Fernandez Jr. of Perris. Fernandez enlisted as an Airman and during his 28 years of service, he has deployed several thousand airmen to various locations in support of Operations Desert Storm, Desert Shield and Enduring Freedom. Fernandez is currently stationed at 452 Force Support Squadron March Air Reserve Base.

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Tuesday, May 12th at 7:10 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Tuesday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:40 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:10 PM.  The first 40,000 fans in attendance will receive a Clayton Kershaw bobblehead.  See it on the left.

“America’s Got Talent” 2014 finalist and Sony Music Masterworks recording artist Emily West will perform the national anthem.  UPDATE:  Three-time Kentucky Derby-winning jockey Victor Espinoza, a native of Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico, will throw the ceremonial first pitch.  He rode American Pharaoh; who won the Derby last week.

Dodger alumnus Al Ferrara will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. KLAC 570 LA Sports’ Petros and Money show will broadcast live from the left-field pavilion plaza from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Army E4 Specialist Julio Ramirez of Los Angeles. Ramirez was deployed to South Korea in 2010, where he earned the Superior Unit Award for his efforts in response to the North Korean attack on a border island. Ramirez is currently stationed in Fort Irwin where he works to extend diplomatic courtesies and hospitality to foreign and domestic visiting leaders.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) conducts silent auctions throughout the season featuring more than 25 signed pieces of memorabilia from Dodger players, coaches and alumni. Auctions will take place behind the Vin Scully press box on the club level. The items up for auction on Tuesday include a Clayton Kershaw autographed photo, Joc Pederson autographed baseball and Zack Greinke autographed Dodger jersey. The auction will end at 8:45 p.m.

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Wednesday, May 13th at 4:50 PM
SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Wednesday's game starts at 4:50 PM.  Auto gates open at 2:20 PM, and stadium gates open at 2:50 PM.

American folk rock artist Lissie will perform the national anthem.

Dodger alumnus Al Downing will sign autographs in the left-field plaza from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

• The Military Hero of the Game is U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Luis Martinez of Salinas. Martinez enlisted in 2006 and in 2009 was assigned to Marine Expeditionary Force Group where he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Martinez later transferred to 2nd Battalion 3rd Marines in Hawaii, where he completed one Unit Deployment Program to Okinawa, Japan for six months.

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