Blog Kiosk: 1/26/2015 - Dodger Links - Congrats Clayton Kershaw!

Clayton Kershaw accepted both his Cy Young and MVP awards this past Saturday at the BBWAA ceremony.  Photo above via @MLB_PR on twitter.  You can watch his entire acceptance speech at the very bottom.  BTW, the Kershaw's celebrated the birth of their first child Friday evening, via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider.  The young girl is named Cali Ann, and she was 6 pounds, 13 ounces.

Below are some more links to check out:

• ICYMI, listen to Yasmani Grandal on Dodger Talk from this past Wednesday, here.
• Via Alexandra Pierce at KSBY News, "KSBY Exclusive: Former professional MLB player charged with insurance fraud in SLO County."  (Hat Tip: Eric Stephen on twitter)
• Via Mike Petriello at Dodgers Digest, "Dodgers Sign Submariner Ben Rowen, A Name Worth Remembering."
• Via Gabe Kapler at Kaplifestyle, "Eating Without Training Wheels."  Kapler believes you shouldn't use supplements. 

Like those training wheels, supplements don’t train us to ride the bike. They don’t teach us balance or to be in tune with our body. They’re dangerous, because they’re highly processed and poorly regulated. Our bodies struggle to recognize them, because they’re isolated and altered from the natural state. We’re still learning that nutrients and vitamins work in concert with others, not in a singular state.

• Via Bill Shaikin at the LA Times, "Dodgers said to be in talks to sell minority share to South Korean group."  A long shot, no doubt.

There is "zero" chance the Dodgers' owners would surrender control of the team in the deal, said the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks have not been confirmed publicly. The person said the talks were "progressing" but otherwise declined to characterize how advanced the negotiations might be or handicap the chances of reaching a deal.

• Watch Sandy Koufax present the NL Cy Young Award and NL MVP Award to Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw at the 2015 BBWAA dinner.

Video Link:

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Blog Kiosk: 11/29/2013 - Dodgers Links - Happy BDay Vin, Nolasco Signs with Twins and Lilly Retires

Happy 86th Birthday, Vin Scully!  Pic above via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2013.

• Via Steve Dilbeck at the LA Times, he hears from AJ Ellis about his trip to Australia.  AJ even addresses the Kirk Gibson comments.

“I want to leave it and let it go,” Ellis said. “He said what he said. They’re making more … I don’t know what to say. I’m honored the Dodgers thought highly enough of me to let me represent what I think is definitely the best organization in the NL West and the best organization in baseball, in my opinion.”

• Via Steve Adams at MLB Trade Rumors, Ted Lilly will retire.

"It's principally the pain in my back and shoulder. I'm having problems there. I feel like I can't return to being the pitcher I was a few years ago."

• Jeff Miller at the Thrillist writes, "19 things in LA we're totally thankful for".  Be sure to check out #16.
• The Kersahw's shared their last day in Zambia in support of Kershaw's Challenge.  Read all about it here.
• Via Harold Uhlman at Think Blue LA, "The Dodgers Did It Their Way".  Uhlman explores "The Dodgers Way to Play Baseball", and laments the loss of that tradition today.
• Thank you, Ricky!  You we're great while you were here, and wish you'll the best of luck.  Via Scooby Axson at SI Wire, "Report: Twins, pitcher Ricky Nolasco agree to 4-year, $49 million deal".
• Via Jon Schorah at Baseball Professor, "Alexander Guerrero: 2014 Fantasy Sleeper".
• Via Marc Normandin at Sports on Earth, "Pitch Perfect?"  Normandin takes an in-depth look at the Dodgers pitching staff
• Via Craig Calcaterra at Hardball Talk, "Time Warner wants to charge a lot of money for the new Dodgers channel".

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Blog Kiosk: 11/15/2013 - Dodgers Links - Dodgers Win Disability Rights in Sports Award and Club Retailer of the Year

This past Wednesday, the Dodgers were awarded the 2013 Disability Rights in Sports Award at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Dinner.

The Disability Rights in Sports Award honors an athlete, team, or organization that represents the inclusion of people with all types of disabilities in sports.  This year the nominating committee selected The Los Angeles Dodgers for their cooperative measures to ensure that the new construction at the stadium was accessible, both physically and in spirit, to visitors with disabilities.  The Los Angeles Dodgers’ extraordinary efforts will make the iconic stadium a welcome destination for all who wish to witness a great team, with a noble history supporting civil liberties, engage in American’s favorite pastime.

Pictured above is Dennis Powell, Executive Director of Disabilities Rights Legal CenterPaula D. Pearlman, Joanie Campanella (Roy Campanella's daughter) and Steve Yeager. Pic above via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2013.

• Via Steve Adams at MLB Trade Rumors, "MLB Amending Posting System Proposal; Agreement May Not Be Reached".  This will undoubtedly delay the Dodgers chase for Masahiro Tanaka.  I've even read rumblings that a deal may not be reached at all; thereby making a Tanaka signing impossible.
• It's official, video replay is coming to MLB in 2014, via David Brown of Big League Stew. 
• Via the Dan Patrick Show on AM570, "Clayton Kershaw: 'I'm Pretty Open-minded' About Contract Extension".  There is a video of the discussion with Clayton.
• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Kasten: Dodgers likely to temper spending".  Emphasis mine.

"We are looking more at deepening the organization, to fine-tune it and get into the season and see what we need," said Kasten. "Having said that, I'm not ruling anything out. But those people who attach us to every free agent out there are making it up."

• Holy Moly.  Via Ben Nicholson-Smith at Sportsnet, Ted Lilly had nerve endings on the side of his neck cauterized to alleviate his pain, and to get back to the Majors.  This is an old friend alert.  It's highly unlikely the Dodgers will try to re-sign him.
• Via a Dodgers press release, "Los Angeles Dodgers named 2013 Major League Baseball "Club Retailer of the Year".  This is just another feather in the cap for the new Dodger owners.

"The Los Angeles Dodgers merchandising and retail department has the support of an incredible front office and loyal fan base, but that does not stop them from working tirelessly to make the retail experience seamless for the fan through creative and innovative development," said Howard Smith, Senior Vice President of Licensing for Major League Baseball. "The Dodgers have made significant strides in increasing sales and brand awareness, and following their successful 2013 season it is clear that the future is bright."

• Via Bill Shaikin at the LA Times, "Dodgers' J.P. Howell opens up about bullying".
• This gave me chills.  James Inverne at Time shared an fascinating story related to the day JFK was assassinated.  That evening, the Boston Symphony Orchestra was performing a concert as news came along indicating the President's death.  The conductor, Erich Leinsdorf, made an announcement to the audience, then proceeded to play the funeral march from Beethoven's 3rd Symphony "Eroica" to honor him.  Go to this link for the story and a YouTube video of the announcement, crowd reaction and performance.
• Beer Mug Sports captures Michael Jordon playing some beer pong.
• Tom Owens at Baseball by the Letters relays a sad note from a 1954 Cub player - Don Robertson. 
• This might be the coolest thing ever!  The WWE will make Cy Young Belts for Kershaw and Scherzer, via a tweet from Vince McMahon.

.@WWE will send the real thing to @MLB Cy Young Awards winners @Max_Scherzer and @ClaytonKersh22 pic.twitter.com/TAoa50rk0v
— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) November 14, 2013

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Blog Kiosk: 8/7/2013 - Dodgers Links - Allen & Ginter is in Stores, Puig, and Donnie Almost Got Canned

BFF's.  Pic bove via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2013.  See more pics from yesterday's game right here.

• Check out this pic (on the right) of a 2013 Allen & Ginter cabinet box-loader of Matt Kemp that was shared by Topps on twitter.  BTW, this set officially goes live today, so you should be able to find them at your local store.  Cards are already showing up on eBay.
• "It’s been 85 starts since Clayton Kershaw was knocked out of a game," via Jon Weisman   at Dodger Thoughts.
• Via Cut4, "Here are 17 reasons why Yasiel Puig is baseball's most must-watch rookie".
• Ross Gasmer at Dodgers Nation informs us that recently released Dodger pitcher Ted Lilly has joined the Giants. 
• Chris Olds at Beckett shares some early pics from Topps 2014 Heritage set that will come out in March of next year.  Check out the Puig and Kershaw cards below.  I love the Kershaw gold embossed card.  Chris has even more preview pics.  BTW, Puig is slated to have an autographed card in the set.

• Just a brief update on the Puig arrest for reckless driving while in the minors, the court case has been delayed.  Via Chattanooga.com.
• Baseball America shares their list of Top-3 MLB Best Tools.  Kershaw, Ryu and Puig make the cut.
• "Giving Yasiel Puig guidance was teacher's extra-credit assignment, via Dylan Hernandez at the LA Times.

When Puig was at double-A Chattanooga (Tenn.) earlier this season, his behavior raised concerns. His first assigned caretaker, former major league pitcher Eddie Orospesa, butted heads with him and lasted only a month. Puig’s demeanor was said to improve after Bravo joined him at the end of last school year.

• "Examining the Dodgers Road Win Streak," via Paul Swydan at FanGraphs.
• But now it's over.  "Dodgers' road win streak ends at 15," via Arash Markazi at ESPN.
• "LA righting its ship may have saved Mattingly's job," via Chad Thornburg at MLB.com.  Apparently, Don came very close to being fired.

"[Team president Stan Kasten] was really honest, because I think he didn't want to do anything, but he says, 'Donny, at some point I've got to do something,'" Mattingly said of their late May conversation. "If they're not listening and it's not going good, you've got to make a change just to be making a change. And you could be doing the best job you could possibly do and it still wouldn't make a difference. At some point, I get it. I got that."

• William Regenthal at Foul Bunt shares more pics from his weekend at Cooperstown during Hall of Induction weekend.  This time he has photos from the Hall of Fame parade.

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Blog Kiosk: 8/5/2013 - Dodgers Links - Puig at the National, Lilly Released and Hanley Injured

Hanley Ramirez took a tumble into the stands yesterday afternoon, and had to leave the game early.  There is no word yet on his condition.  Hopefully it isn't serious.  According to Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, he will have an MRI today.  Pic via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2013.

• "Phenomenal bullpen key to Dodgers’ revival," via Jon Weisman at Dodger Thoughts.

But when you look at how the Dodgers have been playing .811 ball since June 22, winning games like they were free throws, much of it comes down to this – the bullpen simply just keeps getting guys out.

• Gabe Kapler at the Daily Gammons writes, "The Face of MLB: Yasiel Puig".

In my own career, I literally fought back smiles after a big double and stuffed anger down after a strikeout with the bases loaded. The voice of my college coach rang in my ears, “Act like you’ve been there before.” he told us. This behavior stripped me of personality on the baseball field but enabled me to appear professional, in chorus with Charlie’s sentiment. If I could do it all over again, I’d maintain my humility but release a bit more joy. I always experienced envy when watching other players authentically express pleasure during competition.

• Peter Gammons at the Daily Gammons writes, "Revisiting the Red Sox - Dodgers deal".
• Dodger Penguin recaps the Jack Morris autograph session at Harry's Dugout.
• The Dodgers release Ted Lilly, via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com.
• The Panini VIP event that featured Puig was a big hit.  Tracy Hackler at Panini's blog shares some pics here.

• Yasiel Puig shares the below photo from his appearance at the Panini's VIP party at the National.  He stands with Pedro Martinez and Johnny Damon.

• I love this kind of stuff.  Ryan G at Chaos and Kanji writes, "Taipei's Coolest Museum: The Miniatures Museum of Taiwan".

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Blog Kiosk: 7/26/2013 - Dodger Links - Vin Scully, Lilly DFA'd and Brian Wilson?

Check out Vin Scully in the press box during his bobblehead give-away night.  Pic via @dodgers twitter.

• Tim Brown at Yahoo writes about the Dodgers tradition of first place ice cream.
• Via ESPN Stats & Info on twitter:

Mark Ellis singled in the 9th off a 102.1 mph Aroldis Chapman fastball. That's the fastest pitch resulting in a hit in last 5 seasons.
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) July 26, 2013

• Via Steve Dilbeck at the LA Times, "Dodgers pull a shocker and designate Ted Lilly for assignment".

“We didn’t want to do this,” Mattingly said. “We all love Teddy. He just couldn’t stay healthy.

“It just gets to the point where we had to make a decision.”

• Via Lance Pugmire of the LA Times, "Ned Colletti on possible big trade".

“I don’t see it happening, there’s not that type of group of players out there,” Colletti said. “It’s a really thin market, more than in past years.”

• Ryu, Choo to meet in all-Korean pitcher-batter duel in MLB, via Yonhap News.  There's a great photo of Ryu peering in to watch Choo's press conference.
• Are the Dodgers thinking about signing Brian Wilson?  Bill Plunkett mentioned on twitter yesterday that the Dodgers saw him pitch.

Ex-#Giants closer Brian Wilson is scheduled to throw for scouts in LA area Thursday. #Dodgers will have scouts there. Had TJ surgery in 2012
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) July 25, 2013

• "Dodgers Could Be Last Team To Strike Gold With Local TV Deal," via Wendy Thurm at FanGraphs.
• "Nate Silver, data, and storytelling: ESPN's new hire could transform sports television.," via Douglas Alden Warshaw at CNN Money.
• This is for the Kings fan who miss your favorite palyers.  Drew Doughty's shared a bunch of pics from his Grand Slam for Cancer softball game this past weekend on facebook, here.
• Dodger fans give Vin Scully a standing ovation on his bobblehead night in the MLB video below.

Video Link:

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Oy Vey! Matt Kemp Heads Back to DL; Lilly Returns in His Place

What trying times are these?

Matt Kemp has to be going through a whirlwind of emotions.  He's had one of the toughest seasons a young burgeoning star could have.  From frequent stints on the Disabled List to the realization that a major award was stolen from him, you've got to really feel for him.

As the saying goes, "whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger," so hopefully this past many months becomes a springboard to better times.

Announced just a moment ago by the Dodgers is the news that Matt Kemp will be headed to the Disabled List for the 3rd time this season.  Via a @Dodgers tweet:

#Dodgers today placed Matt Kemp on the 15-day disabled list with a left ankle sprain and activated Ted Lilly.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) July 24, 2013

In Kemp's place will be pitcher Ted Lilly.  As originally reported several weeks ago by Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, Lilly is likely back with the Dodgers in a relief role.

"We'll give it a shot," said Mattingly. "Rick [Honeycutt, pitching coach] will set up a sim game tomorrow and every other day, and we'll see what it looks like. Ted said the best chance for him would be out of the bullpen. I want to be open-minded and see what it looks like."

It doesn't appear that he's done any in-game pitching on his recent DL stint since the above quote, so hopefully he's ready to go.


Below is the full Dodgers press release:

The Los Angeles Dodgers today reinstated left-handed pitcher Ted Lilly from the 15-day disabled list and placed outfielder Matt Kemp on the 15-day disabled list (retroactive to July 22) with a left ankle sprain.

Lilly last pitched in a Major League game on June 4 and has been on the disabled list, his third DL stint of the season, with a neck strain since June 5. The 37-year-old made two rehab starts with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga on June 30 and July 6, combining to go 1-1 with a 10.80 ERA (10 ER/8.1 IP) in those outings. Overall, Lilly has gone 0-2 with a 5.09 ERA in five starts with the Dodgers this season.

Kemp will be making his third trip to the disabled list this season and played in one game (Sunday at Washington) since his previous DL stint from July 6-20 for left A-C joint inflammation. The 28-year-old has appeared in 62 games for the Dodgers this season, batting .263 with five homers and 27 RBI.

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Blog Kiosk: 7/20/2013 - Dodgers Link - Claude Osteen, Tommy Davis and Don Newcombe

Puig just impacts every game he plays in.  Gif above via Dodgers tumblr.

• Via Bob Lemke, "Thompson, Newcombe made history July 8, 1949".

I wonder if the 34,468 fans at Ebbets Field on July 8, 1949, had any idea they were witnessing baseball history when Henry Thompson of the New York Giants stepped to the plate to lead off the top of the first inning.

On the mound for the Brooklyn Dodger was Don Newcombe. It was the first time that a black batter had faced a black pitcher in a regular major league game.

• Claude Osteen: Dodgers’ Valuable Third Wheel," Via Paul Swydan at FanGraphs.

Everyone remembers Sandy Koufax and Don Drysdale. The duo pitched 11 years together in Brooklyn and in Los Angeles. Together, the pair  helped the Dodgers reach the Fall Classic five times, three of which their team won. But there’s a good chance  they wouldn’t have won their third and World Series title without the help of their third wheel, Claude Osteen.

• "Rancho Cucamonga honors ex-Dodgers star Tommy Davis, " via Neil Nisperos at the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin.

"I came out here in 1981 and it was because of my sister-in-law, my wife's sister, she was staying out here and we kind of fell in love with it ... We've been out here ever since and we really love it out here. We've met some nice people and have some great neighbors, and I wouldn't have it any other way." 

• Ethier heating up?  "Ethier strikes again in familiar scenario, "  via Mark Simon at ESPN.
• "Kemp faces live pitching, eyes Sunday return," via Andrew Simon at MLB.com.

"I don't know. We'll see when I start playing," Kemp said. "It's hard to tell. Practice is totally different from the game. But I feel good."

Kemp has hit .254 with a .666 OPS in 61 games this season, and now is trying to bounce back from an injury for the second time.

"It is what it is. You've got to deal with it," he said. "When you do come back, try to not get hurt. Just dealing with it. It can be frustrating at times, but it is what it is. Injuries are part of the game."

• BTW, Kemp batted against Lilly in a simulated gate earlier today and did well.  Via a tweet from David Vassegh.

Kemp hit 2 bombs off Lilly in 17 pitches.  He is now out of cage and Lilly continues to pitch
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) July 20, 2013

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Blog Kiosk: 7/10/2013 - Dodgers Links - A Ethier Bobblehead, Lilly to Pitch Relief and Vote Puig!

The Sun sure shines bright when you're winning.  Pic above of Don Mattingly via twitter @Dodgers.

• Via Paulson at Sports Media Watch, the Dodgers hit a 4-year high in local tv ratings on Monday.
• Orel at Sons of Steve Garvey notes down Vin Scully's story that he told on Sunday about former Dodger manager Burt Shotton's difficult All-Star game decision.
• Awesome!  The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes are giving away a Andre Ethier bobblehead before this coming Friday's ballgame.  The First 1,500 fans get one.  Go here for more information.

• "Lilly asks Dodgers to move him into relief role," via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com.

"Ideally, I'd like to be a starter and be effective in that role," said Lilly. "I've had a hard time staying healthy. I pitched Saturday [rehab start at Class A Rancho Cucamonga], and it was sore Sunday. Yesterday, it was pretty good."

• Apparently, this is on the Staples Center in downtown LA, right now.  Via a tweet by DodgersBeat.

Thanks @STAPLESCenter #VotePuig http://t.co/FM3cZblKit text N5 to 89269 #Dodgers @Lakers @LAClippers @LAKings pic.twitter.com/RKcOl5borz
— DodgersBeat (@DodgersBeat) July 9, 2013

• Jon Weisman at Dodger Thoughts/ESPN chats a bit about the Dodgers policy on retiring numbers and he includes a poll.  For the record, I voted no non-Hall of Famers.
• Busting Packs provides a preview of some of the 2013 Topps Tier One Baseball cards that includes an autographed Sandy Koufax card (seen on the right).  It will arrive in stores next week.
• GCRL shares the 2013 Dodgers cards from the factory set that includes a bonus Dodger Stadium card not available in packs.
• Dylan Hernandez at the LA Times writes, "Dodgers' Matt Kemp has irritation in shoulder, MRI exam confirms".
• Panini shares a bunch of preview pics from their the 2013 National Convention card set that they'll be giving out at the show.  See the Clayton Kershaw card on the left.
• Via Paul Hagen at MLB.com, "Baseball possesses rich history in Australia: Dodgers, D-backs to add to legacy Down Under with 2014 opener in Sydney".
• For the hockey fan who is missing Kings hockey, Jason Lewis at Hockey's Future takes a close look at the teams recent draft picks.  Then, Jon Rosen at the LA Kings Insider provides an update on the current Kings rookie development camp happening in El Segundo right now.
• Via Sports Collectors Daily, through this coming Friday 6 different lots from the collection of Kobe Bryant memorabilia currently on auction through Goldin Auctions will be on display at the Newport Sports Museum in Newport Beach.

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Blog Kiosk: 6/9/2013 - Dodgers Links - Man Bear Puig?

Check out this incredible photo of a full moon over Dodger Stadium.  Pic via twitter @Earth_Pics. (Hat Tip: twitter @kc_douglas)

• Ramona Shelburne at ESPN writes, "Risk vs. reward turns out all reward for Puig".

Veteran baseball men, top player development guys and scouts were comparing Puig to all-time greats like Roberto Clemente and calling him a once-in-a-lifetime player.

Walter listened to them all, intrigued but skeptical.

Could he really be that good? Or did these guys just see the team’s new owners as loose with their money after they’d paid a record $2.15 million to buy the Dodgers?

He listened, and then he did what you’d expect from a brilliant financial mind: He assessed the risk/reward from a completely different perspective.
“When you’re told he’s somebody who can be another Matt Kemp, those players are $20 million a year,” Walter said. “Six years for that player is $120 million, so it’s only got to be a 1-in-3 shot [the $42 million over six years the Dodgers signed Puig for] is worth it.

“It’s a lot less if he really is ready for it.” 

• Via Carson Cistulli at Fangraphs, "Ongoing Yasiel Puig Coverage: Puig’s Fourth Home Run".
• "Pick your favorite Yasiel Puig T-shirt," via Mark Townsend at Big League Stew.

@dodgers Mine's better. twitter.com/DavePomerantz/…
— Dave Pomerantz (@DavePomerantz) June 7, 2013

• Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Old timers day should be here to stay".
• Via a Dodgers press release, they palce Ted Lilly on the 15-day DL and recall Matt Magill to pitch this faternoon.

The Los Angeles Dodgers today placed left-handed pitcher Ted Lilly on the 15-day disabled list (retroactive to June 5) with a neck sprain and recalled right-handed pitcher Matt Magill from Triple-A Albuquerque. Magill, 23, will make today's start for Los Angeles and last pitched on Sunday in a spot start for the Dodgers at Colorado, allowing seven runs (six earned) on five hits in 6.0 innings and taking the loss in the Dodgers' 7-2 defeat. In five big league starts this season, the Simi Valley native is 0-1 with a 6.38 ERA after making his Major League debut on April 27 against the Brewers. Magill has gone 1-0 with a 2.16 ERA and a .183 opponents' batting average in five starts with Triple-A Albuquerque this year.

• Drool.  Cardboard Junkie shares a bunch of pics of vintage Baseball cards sitting in cases at a cards show.  It reminds me of the good old days.
• This is just great.  Via Mark Townsend at Big League Stew, "Diamondbacks draft paralyzed Arizona State player Cory Hahn in 34th round".

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Blog Kiosk: 5/16/2013 - Matt Kemp Bobblehead Night Tomorrow in Ranch Cucamonga!

Juan Uribe - Man of Mystery.  Pic via Dodger Dugout.

• The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes are giving away Matt Kemp bobbleheads at this coming Fridays ballgame.

• It's official.  The Dodgers are now dumpster diving.  They have just signed Jonathan Sanchez to a minor league deal, via Austin Laymance at MLB.com.

"I'm sure it's got something to do with depth," manager Don Mattingly said before Wednesday's game against the Nationals. "With some of the issues we've had with injuries to a number of pitchers, it's a guy that's been a quality starter in the past. He's had a couple of years where he's struggled."

• Via Roberto Baly at VSIMH tells us that Hyun-Jin Ryu is now a pitchman for Hanmi Bank, and in his first marketing campaign he tells customers that the Bank will make you some bread.  Chef Ryu?
• Via Mark Saxon at ESPN, "Did Zack Greinke's surgeon rescue this Dodger season?"
• "Lilly feels healthy after five-inning rehab outing"  Via Austin Laymance at MLB.com.
• Dodger fans have been coming out in a big way.  Via the DodgersPR on twitter:

(twitter link)

• Mike Petriello at MSTI tells us about "Ten Good Things About the 2013 Dodgers."
• "Tampa Bay Rays Fan Catches Home Run Ball With His Face," via Paul Sacca at Next Impulse Sports.
• Take a look at Phil Jackson's 13 championship rings, via Ryan Glasspiegel at Extra Mustard.
• Talkin' about next seasons schedule already?  I guess the Dodgers will be headed overseas to start the 2014 season, via Dan at MyKBO on twitter.

(twitter link)

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Blog Kiosk: 5/4/2013

 

Clayton Kershaw was masterful last night.  Unfortunately, the Dodgers couldn't score enough runs.  Pic via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2013.

• As you probably already know, Ted Lilly has been placed on the 15-day DL.
• David Brown at Big League Stew writes, "Vintage Vin Scully calls classic Clayton Kershaw curve ball in 2008 spring training."
• David J. Halberstam at the Bleacher Report pens an article about some inaccuracies surrounding Dodgers announcer Red Barber in the '42' Jackie Robinson movie.

Having met Barber a couple of times, I'm afraid he would have been unhappy to see this misrepresentation of him applauding Robinson's home run. Red publicly lambasted the Giants' Russ Hodges for losing it on his famous Bobby Thomson call in 1951. Yes, through the years, there were subtle voice inflections in Red's call suggesting that he was pleased to see Robinson excel, but he never blatantly rooted, and applauding has long been considered taboo in broadcast booths and press boxes.

(pic credit: Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2013)

• Not again!  Hanley Ramirez hurt his hamstring in yesterdays game.  According to Jon Heyman he is heading for the DL.  In his place, Dee Gordon will be back in Dodger Blue.  This has yet to be confirmed by the team, but has already been widely reported as true.  Welcome back to the Blue, Dee!

(twitter link)

• Jim Shonerd at Baseball America writes, "Dodgers’ Onelki Garcia Finally Gets Chance To Shine."  (Hat Tip: JP Hoornstra at Inside the Dodgers)

He pitched with an 89-92 mph fastball leading up to the draft last year—and actually did give up some hits to the beer leaguers—but he started topping out at 97 after he signed. Garcia was slowed by knee issues during spring training ths year, but he was throwing at 90-95 early this season for the Lookouts. His fastball moves with armside sink, and he has a feel for varying its velocity.

• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Magill to replace Lilly in revised rotation."
• TMZ picks up the story on how the new '42' Jackie Robinson movie snubbed Geoge "Shotgun" Shuba's first handshake with Jackie.  I wrote about this important incident back in 2007, and followed it up earlier this year as I wondered if the moment would be highlighted in the film.  As you probably know, the movie made no mention of the handshake.  (Hat Tip: Dodger Dugout)
• I did think it was strange that a bunch of Kobe Bryant personal memorabilia is on auction.  Apparently, it was his mother who consigned it to Goldin Auctions, and now Kobe has filed a cease and desist lawsuit to stop its sale.  Via Chris Olds at Beckett.

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Blog Kiosk: 5/1/2013

Jerry Hairston Jr. shows PSY that he has some dance moves, too!  Pic via Jill Weisleder/LA Dodgers.

• Hilarious!  Carson Cistulli at FanGraphs analyzes the pitching of Skip Schumaker.
• Mark Langill at Dodger History tells us that today is the anniversary of the longest tie.

May 1, 1920 – The Brooklyn Dodgers and Boston Braves set a MLB record by playing 26 innings of a game that ended in a 1-1 tie due to darkness at Braves Field. The starting pitchers lasted the entire afternoon – Boston’s Joe Oeschger and Brooklyn’s Leon Cadore.

• Dustin Nosler at Feelin' Kinda Blue tells us that the Dodgers signed another 17 year old.

The Dodgers signed Dominican teenager Osiris Ramirez to a deal that includes a $100,000 signing bonus.

• Don Mattingly isn't happy that Ted Lilly kept quiet about his back pain, via Clay Fowler at Inside the Dodgers.

“He can’t just keep that to himself,” Mattingly said. “Then at least we know going in to the game that we possibly should have a guy that can go four or five innings, instead of having to use the whole group.”

• Via Steve Wulf at ESPN, check out the scouting reports on both Orel Hershiser and Sandy Koufax.  (Hat Tip: JP Hoornstra at Inside the Dodgers)
• Gratitude for a .500 team on May 1, via Jon Weisman at Dodger Thoughts.  I gotta agree with Jon on this one.
•  Jeff Shand-Lubbers at Sporting Charts makes an interesting observation.  MLB team payrolls are shifting towards pitching.

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Blog Kiosk: 4/30/2013

We can now see Hanley Ramirez, who is ready to play.  It's his bobblehead night tonight, and I suspect he'll be returning to the lineup today.  Pic via twitter @Dodgers.

• Just to pass along info that I'm sure you already know, Clayton Kershaw has been placed on the bereavement list.  Don't ask me why.  As far as I'm concerned, it's personal business.  In a likewise move, this allows the Dodgers to reinstate Hanley Ramirez from the DL without having to send anyone to the minors- just yet.
• In news that makes me laugh because I fail to see why it's news.  The Dodgers sent along a press release to let us bloggers/reporters know that the Korean pop sensation PSY will be at the Dodger game today to watch Hyun-Jin Ryu pitch.
• "Day after arrest, Puig homers, hits walk-off single," via Austin Laymance at MLB.com.
• Matthew Reichbach at Yahoo writes, "Juan Uribe Is the Los Angeles Dodgers' Best Option for 3B."
• Nick Green at the Daily Breeze writes about the popularity of bobbleheads in Southern California.  He even highlights a LA area hobby shop that specializes in bobbleheads.

Yet they also are incredibly popular among collectors, akin to a 21st century version of the baseball card before that market became saturated and collapsed.

And Southern California, as it turns out, is arguably the bobblehead epicenter.

• We might need to convert Skip Schumaker into a reliever.  He came into last nights game to give our pitchers a rest and shut the Rockies down.  Eric Stephen at True Blue LA notes that he is now the Dodgers ERA leader.
• To make matters worse, Lilly (who started yesterday's game) has back tightness, via Mark Saxon at ESPN.

The Dodgers are accustomed to carefully monitoring the 37-year-old pitcher's health on a start-by-start basis, so in a way this is nothing new. Lilly had felt a bit of tightness in his back after his previous start in New York last week and it returned in the first inning of Monday night's 12-2 loss to the Colorado Rockies, in which Lilly got hit around for three innings. 

• What Jeff Pearlman Said!  He writes, "Chris Broussard is embarrassing himself."

I too, however, am entitled to my opinion—and my opinion is that Broussard is a moron. On a day when the first openly gay active American athlete (from a team sport) courageously comes out of the closet, Broussard reacts by … giving us a lecture on homosexuality and sinfulness? Really? Not a lecture on courage, or guts, or what surely must have been a tough decision—but sinfulness? Really?

• Susan Lulgjuraj at Beckett visited the collection of Dick Perez (maker of the Donruss Diamond Kings cards) Baseball paintings in a New York exhibit and shares a bunch of pics.
• Talk about taking things personally.  In Japan, a batter asked and was granted a timeout while the pitcher was in the midst of pitching and the pitcher made a wild inadvertent (or was it) throw.  Check out a gif and video at Bob's Blitz.

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Blog Kiosk: 4/24/2013

Check out the winning photo for the MLB FanCave Dodgers photo contest taken by Despina Kritiko above.  She got a free trip to NYC to the MLBFanCave.  Here is a pic with her there.  Pic provided by twitter @Dodgers.

• Jon Heyman at CBS Sports sits down with Stan Kasten.

 “If we hang on,'' he declared at one point, “we can still have a good season.''

• Via Paul Casella at MLB.com, "(Charley) Steiner living a dream as Dodgers voice."

"This is all I ever wanted to be when I grew up. I grew up in New York, the first game I ever went to was at Ebbets Field, the first voice I listened to and wanted to emulate was Vin Scully," said Steiner, who stopped by the MLB.com headquarters to field questions from fans via social media and a live video stream inside the Edward Jones Chatting Cage. "I always wanted to be the Dodgers' announcer, but then they moved when I was 8 years old and my childhood dreams were dashed.

• It nice to get two wins in a row.  One more and we got a streak!  Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Mark Ellis Powers Dodgers to 7-2 Win over Mets."
• "Carl Crawford: 'I don't think I smiled' in two years in Boston," via Paul White at USA Today.

"It's been awhile since I had this feeling, no doubt," he says. "Since 2010 with the Rays. It feels good just to feel like my old self again. I'm enjoying every day of it, I'll tell you that."

• Via Phil Wallace at LA Observed,

"With nearly three weeks of the season gone by, I'm convinced that the Dodgers should trade manager Don Mattingly to the Angels for manager Mike Scioscia."

• Via Kim Tong-hyung at the Korea Times, "It's Up to Ryu." 

So the once-mighty Dodgers rotation is suddenly reduced to Kershaw and a number of unproven options. It’s critical for the team that Ryu steps up to the occasion because Boston Red Sox wash-up Josh Beckett and ailing veteran Ted Lilly can’t be described as reliable.

• How rough has our pitching woes been?  Well, Ken Gurnick at MLB.com writes, "Dodgers to Us Eight Starting Pitchers in First 20 Games."

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Blog Kiosk: 4/20/2013

Mattingly enjoyed last nights rainout in Baltimore, pic via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2013.

• The best Kings blog around shares some comments from some Kings players who wore Dodger themed hockey jersey's on Thursday, via John Hoven at Mayor's Manor.

Fraser on who was chirping Doughty the most: “Greener, he’s the biggest Dodger fan in here. He’s a Dodger season ticket holder.”

Greene on wearing a Dodgers jersey for the second time: “I might be an answer to a trivia question. The only LA athlete to be a professional in both sports.”

• Via Aaron Gleeman at Hardball Talk, Ted Lilly will be back next week in the Dodgers starting rotation.
• Chris Olds at Beckett provides a early peek at 2013 Topps Five Star Baseball cards.  Check out the Sandy Koufax on the right.
• Bob Lemke passes along some interesting information.  Jackie Robinson earned $2,000.00 from Bowman for the right to use his name in their Baseball card set in 1950. 
• I know I promised to never report anything McCourt related, but I can't help myself with this story.  Via Bill Shaikin at the LA Times, "Jamie McCourt tries to get judge to throw out her 'huge mistake'."
• Yesterday I mentioned that MLB 13 has an alternate cover featuring Matt Kemp available through facebook to download.  For those who could care less about facebook (or in case this download disappears from there), I thought I would download it myself and make it available to all of you.  Get your own zipped copy here.
• Hyun-Jin Ryu is the king of Korea. Via a tweet by @MyKBO, watch the video referenced below here.  And here's another youtube video of the game.

(twitter link)

• Panini provides an early look at their upcoming 2013 Golden Age Baseball cards.

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Blog Kiosk: 4/5/2013

Check out these incredible photo's that were tweeted out by the @Dodgers from Opening Day 1962, yesterday.  If any of you'll have photo's from this far back please send them along to me.  I would love to post them up.

• Do you see something strange about the below receipt from a bay area restaurant?  Taco Shops and Underdogs in San Francisco adds a Dodgers' fan tax.  Via Reddit, shstmo.

(pic link: Reddit: shstmo)

• Louie Lazar at the NY Times writes a great story featuring the oldest living Brooklyn Dodger, Mike Sandlock.

Sandlock said the modern game irks him. “Bunt, hit and run — they don’t do that anymore!” he said with a groan. “Everything is the long ball.”Sandlock added, “I mean, a guy on first and second, jeez, bunt that guy to third. Get that one run if you can!” 

• I hate linking to TMZ, so I'll link to Huffington Post instead.  Magic Johnson has shown me that he is an awesome dad.  He recently spoke about his gay son and the support he and his wife have given him.

"I told him, 'Hey, we are here to support you, man. We are gonna love you no matter who you are, what you do. We just want you to love yourself and also make sure that you have all the information,'" he told TMZ's Harvey Levin in a candid interview. "And that's what I wanted to give him. Just provide him with advice and guidance." 

• I want this jersey to burn so badly.  Reggie Jackson's 1977 World Series jersey that he wore when he belted 5 homers; including 3 in the deciding Game 6, will be on auction with SCP.  Watch Reggie talk about the jersey and auction on Bloomberg TV, here.
• Left Field Pavilion makes some great homemade retro card of Greinke, Punto and Lilly.
• Curbed LA shares a bunch of photos of refurbished Dodger Stadium.
• "Dodger Dogs vs. Super Dodger Dogs: The Great Debate," Vic Diaz at Dodgers Nation.

And just when we thought the perfection that is the Dodger Dog couldn’t get any better, it up and did. We were introduced to the Super Dodger Dog: the all-beef, sesame-seed bun wrapped amazement that could be described as the Dodger original on steroids.

• Greg Zakwin at Plaschke Thy Sweater is Argyle post up a video interview with Matt Kemp from yesterday.
• Via David Brown at Big League Stew, she shares a video of Manny Ramirez's 1st home run in Taiwan.  The hometown fans and announced go absolutely crazy.
• I think that as a society, we are way too sensitive.  Case in point, Rays Index tells us about a incident with the team mascot and a fan-made poster that apparently ruffled some gills.  I thought it was funny (in a morbid kind of way) ... and probably tasteless, but still funny.

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