Blog Kiosk: 12/12/2014 - Dodger Links - Rule 5 Pick Ups and Miguel Rojas' Goodbye

How can I sign up for this?

Yesterday afternoon the Dodgers hosted 400 kids for their annual Children’s Holiday Party, and as you can see they turned the sloping hills at Dodger Stadium into a sleding wonderland.  Photo above via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2014.  Go here to check out more photos from the event.

“It is a privilege for the Dodgers to welcome the youngsters from our neighborhood annually to enjoy a day of lunch, holiday fun and gifts,” said Dodger Executive Vice President Bob Wolfe. “Each season we do our best to provide great entertainment on the field for our fans and during the holiday season it gives us great pleasure to be able to put smiles on the faces of these deserving youngsters.”

Below are some links to check out:

• Via Eric Stephens at True Blue LA, "Dodgers take Peter Lavin, Alexander Santana, Randy Fontanez, Nate Samson in minor league portion of Rule 5 Draft."
• JP Hoornstra provides a minute-by-minute rundown of Wednesday's activities, here.  What a crazy day, eh?
• Via Jeff Sullivan at FanGraphs, "Dodgers Bet On Brandon McCarthy’s Shoulder."

He’s always been an interesting pitcher, but 2014 saw him reach a new level of intrigue. The Dodgers, it must always be understood, can afford to take some of these risks, on account of the money that funds them, yet this is a deal that would look pretty good on a number of payrolls. If you believe even a little bit in the power of xFIP, there’s more to McCarthy than meets the eye.

• Via Dave Cameron at FanGraphs, "The Matt Kemp Trade Feels Like the Vernon Wells Trade."  An interesting thought.  If Grandal becomes a Mike Napoli and Kemp turns in to Vernon Wells, I'd be super-surprised.
• Via Ken Rosenthal at SOX Sports, "Dodgers new president goes buck wild at Winter Meetings."

The overall plan, though, is compelling.

Streamline the payroll. Create paths for youngsters such as Pederson and shortstop Corey Seager. Make the roster more flexible, spend when appropriate, combine financial might with an improving farm system to gain access to virtually any player available in free agency or trade.

• Via Jay Jaffe at Sports Illustrated, "New front office puts its stamp on Dodgers with flurry of acquisitions."

Even with all that wheeling and dealing, Friedman and Zaidi may not be done. They could still trade Crawford or Ethier to open up a spot for top prospect Joc Pederson. Regardless of what the rest of the offseason holds, it's clear the new front office has wasted little time putting its stamp on the Dodgers.

• Miguel Rojas says goodbye to Dodger fans on twitter.  Thank you , Miguel!  You'll always be remembered for saving Kershaw's no-hitter.  Check it out below:

@Dodgers @LosDodgers pic.twitter.com/GQC1uR6Pya
— Miguel Rojas (@MRojasOfficial) December 11, 2014

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WTF! My Head is Spinning! Dodgers Trade for Howie Kendrick?!

I'm still in shock about this afternoon's happenings.  It's like a whirlwind came over 'Dodger Nation' and decided to wreak havoc.  Let's just toss everything around and see if we can jumble the club into a super-powered statistically driven behemoth unseen in the game.

What we are witnessing is what happens when you pair some of the smartest folks in the game with the financial muscle of a Wall Street bank.  We get extremely bold moves. 

As you know, the Dodgers traded Dee Gordon, Dan Haren and Miguel Rojas to the Miami Marlins for Andrew Heaney, Chris Hatcher, Austin Barnes and Kike Hernandez.  Then, just as the dust was starting to settle, the Dodgers have reportedly moved Andrew Heaney to the Angels for Howie Kendrick - straight up.

CORRECTION: Andrew Heaney to Angels for Howie Kendrick, not Austin Barnes.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) December 11, 2014

Wha...?  I just can't keep up.

So as it stands, we have the makings of a creative three-way trade.  The Dodgers get Howie Kendrick, Chris Hatcher, Austin Barnes and Kike Hernandez.  The Miami Marlins get Dee Gordon, Dan Haren, Miguel Rojas and potentially a bunch of cash.  The Angels get Andrew Heaney. 

Whew!  What a crazy day it's been.

Hilariously, Andrew Heaney responded to being a Dodger for all of a few hours on twitter:

Well, @Dodgers we had a good run! Great to be a part of such a storied franchise. #thanksforthememories
— Andrew Heaney (@Heandog8) December 11, 2014

BTW, the Dodgers might not be done.  There are reports that they are close to signing free agent starter Brandon McCarthy.

UPDATE:  BTW, I had already made a Dodger fantasy Baseball card for Andrew Heaney and feel compelled to share - just because I don't want to feel like I wasted my time.  Check it out below.

UPDATE II:  Just to let you know what we might be missing when it comes to Andrew Heaney here is a listing of various scouting reports on him:

• Frank Neville scouting report at the Sporting News."

The talented lefthander doesn’t have a dominant pitch, but he has three above-average offerings and a smooth, repeatable delivery.  Heaney’s stuff plays up because he has some deception and he is effective at locating to both sides of the plate.

• Via Michael Beller at Sports Illustrated, "Fantasy baseball Pitcher Scouting Report: Andrew Heaney."

The 23-year-old lefty features a fastball that sits at about 91 mph, a changeup that typically clocks in about 10 mph slower, and a slider that registers in the high-70s.

• Via Chris Blessing at RotoScouting, "Andrew Heaney Scouting Report (2014)."

Listed at 6-foot-2, 185 pounds, Heaney has physical projection left. Long and lean, the young lefty looks stoic in the windup. With a three-quarters arm slot and easy arm action, his velocity is a product of consistency and power generated from his base. Heaney’s core is in near-perfect symmetry. Everything is laid back and easy.

• Via John Sickels at Minor League Ball, "Prospect of the Day: Andrew Heaney, LHP, Miami Marlins."

Born June 5, 1991, Heaney makes dominance look easy, throwing a 90-95 MPH fastball (sometimes as high as 97) with a low-effort delivery. He locates the fastball with precision, made all the more effective due to the contrast with a wicked slider (likely his best overall pitch) and a very good changeup.

• Via Clark Spencer at the Miami Herald, "Miami Marlins prospect Andrew Heaney being held in high regard."

“Pitchability-wise, he’s got the plus fastball,” (Wayne) Rosenthal (the Marlins’ minor-league pitching coordinator) said. “He’s got an out-pitch slider, and he’s got a changeup. So you’re looking at three plus pitches.”

UPDATE III:  It is now officeial.  Here is the Dodger official press release.

 The Los Angeles Dodgers today announced the acquisitions of infielder Howie Kendrick from the Angels and prospects infielder/outfielder Kike Hernandez, catcher Austin Barnes and right-handed reliever Chris Hatcher from the Marlins. The acquisitions were made through two separate trades, a seven-player deal with Miami - with Los Angeles acquiring Hernandez, Barnes, Hatcher and left-handed pitcher Andrew Heaney in exchange for infielder Dee Gordon, right-handed pitcher Dan Haren, infielder Miguel Rojas and a player to be named later or cash considerations - and a subsequent trade that sent Heaney to the Angels in exchange for Kendrick.

Pic at the very top via Wikimeadia Commons, Shishike.

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Dodgers Make Another Big Trade - Dee Gordon and Dan Haren go to Marlins

Holy moly!  What a day for the Dodgers.

After lulling its audience into believing they would do nothing the Dodgers go ahead and splurge all at once.  Following on the heels of the trade that brings Jimmy Rollins to play shortstop we find out that a blockbuster trade has been completed with the Miami Marlins.  Keep in mind, though, that this deal has yet to be confirmed by the clubs involved, but has received widespread confirmations throughout the peanut gallery.

The Dodgers will send fan favorite Dee Gordon and starting pitcher Dan Haren to Miami for top rated left-handed starting pitching prospect Andrew Heaney, right-handed reliever Chris Hatcher, infield prospect Austin Barnes and infield prospect Kike Hernandez.

Wow!  What a bevy of players.

From what I understand, Andrew Heaney is one of Miami's top starting pitching prospects, so he'll slot in nicely into Haren's spot.  Also, Chris Hatcher had been fairly effective in a relief role this past season in Miami.  As for the remaining two players, they have potential, but are hardly key pieces to the deal.

Something of note, Heaney would likely rank as the Dodgers 2nd or 3rd best prospect in our system, so we got quite a prize for Dee Gordon and Dan Haren.  The Dodgers front office definitely sold high on Dee.

I'll have more details later on; including my own card creations for the new Dodgers, so stay tuned.

UPDATE:  If you can't tell, I'm kinda excited about this trade.  It's the kind of deal I expected to see from our new front office and I'm glad that my expectations are being met.  On the flip side, I really like Dee Gordon... Like, I considered him to be the most 'True-Blue' Dodger on the entire roster kind of like for him.  If I were a younger lad I might be in tears at the thought of him playing elsewhere.

UPDATE II:  This is cold!  Via Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald, the Dodgers are paying all of Dan Haren's $10Mil salary for 2015 should he not retire, or they will pay nothing if he does retire (as he has already threatened to do).  UPDATE: Reports now indicate that the Marlins can keep the $10Mil even if Haren decides to retire.  Wow!

Hearing that #dodgers, as part of trade with #Marlins, agreed to pay Haren's $10 million. So Haren is a "free pitcher" for #Marlins.
— clarkspencer (@clarkspencer) December 11, 2014

UPDATE III: It is now being reported that Dodger infielder Miguel Rojas was also a part of the trade.  He goes to the Marlins, via Joe Fisaro at MLB.com:

I've heard INF Miguel Rojas is also headed to #Marlins from #Dodgers and Miami will receive financial compensation if Haren retires
— Joe Frisaro (@JoeFrisaro) December 11, 2014

UPDATE IV:  Here's the official Dodger press release on all the details of this crazy blockbuster trade:

The Los Angeles Dodgers today announced the acquisitions of infielder Howie Kendrick from the Angels and prospects infielder/outfielder Kike Hernandez, catcher Austin Barnes and right-handed reliever Chris Hatcher from the Marlins. The acquisitions were made through two separate trades, a seven-player deal with Miami - with Los Angeles acquiring Hernandez, Barnes, Hatcher and left-handed pitcher Andrew Heaney in exchange for infielder Dee Gordon, right-handed pitcher Dan Haren, infielder Miguel Rojas and a player to be named later or cash considerations - and a subsequent trade that sent Heaney to the Angels in exchange for Kendrick.

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Blog Kiosk: 11/25/2014 - Dodger Links - Editorializing the Dodgers

Here is a fantastic ACME Press Photo, circa 1940, from high up in the rafters of Ebbets Field.  I ran into this on eBay.  Check out the auction here.

On a side note, I am more than pleased with the current moves the Dodger front office is making.  They are measured, deliberate and necessary changes meant to provide depth in areas that are lacking with the club.  Not only that, several of the new Dodger players appear to have some upside that may translate well if given different roles.  No doubt they are gambles, but they appear to be worthwhile.

In the past, the Dodgers tried going the veteran route - figuring their money would solve any problems.  They went after old horses with an easy to understand history, but they got burned.  Soon, fans and the press complained.  Now they are choosing to go a different route by trying to find a competitive advantage by taking some risk... And still you complain? 

None of these recent moves are flashy or headline grabbing, and I don't think that the current leadership cares about any of that - and neither should you.  Heck, you never should have built up the expectation that the Dodgers were going to do something major to begin with.  They were never going to sign Russell Martin.  Hanley Ramirez was always going to be allowed to go elsewhere.  And you shouldn't expect the Dodgers to sign a Lester or trade for Cole. 

What you should expect is some resolution to the outfield situation.  Someone or more will get traded, and I do not believe Kemp will be that man.  He has significant value (given his 2014 second half he would make a bundle in todays free agent market), and unless another team is willing to pony up he will remain in Blue.  Instead, we'll see a trade that includes cash and some minor prospects.

We are in a new Dodger era - an era that does not include trying to be the Yankees of the West.  Instead, we are a Dodger franchise set on the intention of playing it smart.  We have the cash, the brains and now the will to make it all happen.  Don't sully that by giving yourself false expectations of the future.  What you want is not the same thing as what we need.

Below are some links to check out:

• Via Sarah at We're born again, there's new grass on the field, "Baseball as the “national pastime,” one of the most successful PR efforts ever."
• Via Carson Cistulli at FanGraphs, "Dodgers Already Avoiding the Awful Under Friedman."
• Just in case you care.  Via Adam Berry at MLB.com, "Players' cut of postseason pool announced."  The Dodgers full share was $31,542.85 each.
• Via Joey Nowak at MLB.com, "Former Dodgers are all over Hall of Fame ballot: Piazza hopes to be elected in third year; Pedro, Sheffield have strong cases."
• Via Mark Saxon at ESPNLosAngeles.com, "Dodgers' options at shortstop appear limited."

It’s quite possible they’ll live with the in-house options, giving Erisbel Arruebarrena (who will earn his $25 million by 2017 whether he’s in the big leagues or minors) first crack at it. Miguel Rojas will be standing by if he flounders. The Dodgers’ defense would improve significantly, but the offensive drop-off from Hanley to either of those guys would be vast.

• Listen to the most recent episode of Dodger Talk with David Vassegh and Kevin Kennedy, here.  Dodger GM Farhan Zaidi joins them at about the 22:30 minute mark.  He mentions that one of their focuses will be to find under-the-radar tough-luck starters to convert into relievers.  I think this is the basis for the recent trades for Mike Bolsinger and Juan Nicasio.
• Via Mike Petriello at Dodgers Digest, "Juan Nicasio, Fascinating Relief Project."

Though Nicasio would be at the moment likely the team’s fifth starter behind Clayton Kershaw, Zack Greinke, Hyun-jin Ryu, and Dan Haren, I’m really not interested in him in that role, and I think we all know the Dodgers will move to add another starter. But as a reliever, a two-pitch guy who can touch 95 in short stints? Well, that’s fascinating, really, because I’ve long loved the idea of taking mediocre starters who don’t have a good enough third pitch or velocity to survive in the rotation and turning them into relief assets. I’m not suggesting that Nicasio will be Wade Davis, but you get the idea — it’s the exact same thing.

• On Joe DiMaggio's 100th birthday check out this post by Paul Frazier at Picollecta about his life through collectibles. 
• A Jackie Robinson Tribute from UCLA.

Video Link:

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Blog Kiosk: 11/14/2014 - Dodger Links - Schebler, Rojas and Farhan Zaidi on the Hot Stove

While playing some Baseball in Japan Yasiel Puig still finds time to do the tourist thing.  Here he is with a Geisha/  Photo via @MLBFanCave on twitter.

Below are some links to check out:

• Via Jim Callis at MLB.com, "Fall League observations: Dodgers' Schebler impresses vs. former No. 1 pick."

(Scott) Schebler had the two best at-bats against Appel. He dealt with six straight mid-90s fastballs in the second inning, getting ahead in the count 3-1 and blasting a 95-mph heater over the fence in right-center. Schebler fouled off a changeup to lead off the fourth before coaxing four straight balls for Appel's lone walk.

• Via Michael Duarte at Latin Times, "Latinos In The US: Dodgers Shortstop Miguel Rojas Talks Journey To Big Leagues, Family And Heritage."

LT: I heard you got married earlier this year, congratulations. I know that your wife, Mariana was living in Caracas until the season started, but since then she has been here with you. How has she helped you this season?
MR: My wife Mariana has been great for me this year because this is the first year she has been here with me in the United States. She keeps me away from distractions. Your first year in the big leagues, there is a lot of media surrounding you and a lot of temptations. That’s been the biggest thing; she has been great for me.

• Via Mark Saxon at ESPNLosAngeles.com, "Lure of Dodgers 'think tank' landed Gabe Kapler."
• Via Erin Edwards at Dodger Insider, "Another Dream(field) becomes a reality."

“This project is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when a community focuses their energies towards the possible,” said Buscaino. “In only one year, Leland Park went from being an abandoned trouble magnet to one of the nicest baseball parks in the City thanks to the efforts of the neighbors, the Department of Recreation and Parks, my office and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation.”

• In commemoration of Clayton Kershaw's 2014 CY Young award Topps has issued a limited edition 10"x14" prints that uses the vintage 1961 Topps MVP design.  There are three different versions; limited to #/99, #/10 and #/1.  The card on the left below is the more common #/99 variation and the print on the right is limited to #/10 copies.  The "1 of 1" version uses a gold background and is already sold out.  Go here to check them out.

• Listen to Dodger Gm Farhan Zaidi on Hot Stove:

Video Link:

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Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Miguel Rojas, Tyler Toffoli and Some Laker Greats

Here are this weekends autograph opportunities and events throughout the Southland. As always, be sure to check the Blue Heaven Calendar for other events (a link can always be found on the tab at the top of this page, just left of center), and always confirm with the establishment. Everything is subject to change.  Please email me with any tips about upcoming events in Southern California.  As the rest of the week progresses I'll update this post with other events (if there are any) as I become aware of them.  Also, I don't always list every event below, so be sure to check my Calendar.  I always try to favor free signing events over paying events.  Click on any pic to embiggen.

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Miguel Rojas will be at The Shops at Montebello for a signing photo event on Thursday, September 25th (tomorrow) from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM.  Go here for information.  (I was recently notified that this is a photo event)

The first 100 LA Dodger fans in line in Center Court at 4:00 p.m. will receive a Dodger blue Shops at Montebello mini fan.

The Shops at Montebello - Center Court
2134 Montebello Town Center
Montebello, CA, 90640

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Current King and Stanley Cup standout Tyler Toffoli will be at Harry's Dugout in Whitter to sign autographs for fans.  Go here for information.

Harry's Dugout
10715 Beverly Boulevard
Whittier, CA

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Laker greats Byron Scott, Elgin Baylor and Magic Johnson will be at Frank & Son's on Saturday.  Go here for information or here.  Click on any flyer below to embiggen.

Frank & Son Collectible Show
19649 San Jose Ave
City of Industry, CA

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Blog Kiosk: 9/18/2014 - Dodger Links - Some Dodger Odds and Ends

I won't bother with a recap of Wednesday's game 'cause.... well... it was horrible... and embarrassing... and everything you might expect from a game at Coors Field.  Maybe it was the blistering 85 degree partly cloudy weather (I'd kill for that right now) or the high altitude air in Denver, but the Dodgers just did not come out to play.

That being said, let's just take a step back and enjoy the moment.  We have ten games left in the season, and as Jon Weisman of Dodger Insider noted we only have to go 3-3 in games not pitched by Kershaw or Greinke to win the division (assuming, of course, that they win those games). We are in a great position, and I firmly believe that they've got this. 

So, enjoy the photograph above of a couple of Dodger youngsters enjoying an evening out in Chicago.  Joc Pederson and Miguel Rojas got hazed along with other rookies by the Dodger veterans, and they were sure to enjoy every second of it - as they should.  Go here to check out more pics of this season hazing.  The pic above is via Miguel Rojas on twitter.  BTW, Blackhawks suck!

The Dodgers lead over the Giants is down to 2.0 games and their magic number to win the West stays at 9 games.  The magic number for a playoff spot (wild card berth) is down to four games.  Check out some more links below:

• Via Bill Plunkett at the OC Register, "Dodgers, Frias reach Rocky Mountain low."

“I look at it as one inning, honestly, and it didn’t go good,” Mattingly said of Frias’ Coors Field nightmare. “We’re going to look at the body of work and he doesn’t have a huge body of work. He hasn’t had anything like this obviously. But he’s given up some runs and bounced back from it.

“I think he’s a kid who’ll bounce back, honestly. Hopefully he’ll put it behind him. There’s not a whole lot you can do about outings like this. It’s easier for me to say that than for him to have to deal with it. But I think he’ll bounce back.”

• I can't wait for this to come out.  Via Jeff Passan at Yahoo Sports, "Filmmaker Ken Burns vows true portrait of 'most important person in the history of baseball'" - on Jackie Robinson.

“It has to do with the laziness of our media culture, the ability for superficiality to trump depth. For us to even call someone a hero without acknowledging other sides is the opposite of what a hero is. The Greeks will tell you what defines heroism is a war between their very obvious strengths and their possibly equal weaknesses. We’re perpetually disappointed in our media culture because we assume perfection and incorrectly label heroes someone that does something out of the ordinary. But Jackie Robinson is the very definition of a hero, a vey complicated person who’s struggling in the larger stage forced upon him to deal with content of character.”

• Panini America has shared some preview pics from their upcoming 2014 Immaculate Baseball set.  This is super high-end set.  Check out the Hanley Ramirez and Yasiel Puig cards below.  Go here to check out more preview pics.  

There is one thing I find a bit disconcerting about this set.  The preview pics include a Satchel Paige game-used jersey relic card that appears to use a Kansas City Monarchs jersey.  My first thought is that there can't possibly be many of those in existence (if any at all), so the cost to purchase that jersey would be astronomical - like in the tens of thousands, or more.  Considering that cost and the recent game-used jersey scandal that is sending dealers to the federal penitentiary, I have to wonder if it's even real. 

• Yesterday I noted that Jake Peavy was thinking about Dee Gordon while in the shower.  Apparently, Dee sent him a special text.

Dee Gordon has a great sense of humor, texted Peavy a picture of him in towel holding shampoo.
— Alex Pavlovic (@AlexPavlovic) September 17, 2014

• This is a helpful guide.  Zach Helfand at the LA Times writes, "Do's and Don'ts for baseball autograph seekers."
• I can't think of anything more worse than this.  There will be a reality show called 'Hockey Wives' and LA Kings captain Dustin Brown's wife will be in it, via Greg Wyshynski at Puck Daddy.

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Blog Kiosk: 9/3/2014 - Dodger Links - Kershaw the Great and Pederson Gets his First Hit

Nothing Clayton Kershaw does should surprise you anymore.  He is a master on the mound, and is unquestionably the best pitcher in Baseball.  Last night he was sharp in eight innings, giving up three hits, striking out eight and allowed just a single run (on a home run by Bryce Harper).  Kershaw now leads the league with 17 wins.

The Dodgers offense knocked out eleven hits and scored four runs.  AGon drove in the first run of the evening with an infield single in the fifth inning, then a subsequent throwing error scored another run on the same play.  A couple innings later Juan Uribe slammed a two-run home run.

Of note, Joc Pederson started his first Major League game of his career and recorded his first hit on a Texas Leaguer to centerfield.  Check out my post from last night titled "Chronicles of Joc" for a complete rundown on his day, here. BTW, the photo above was taken by Jon SooHoo/LA Dodogers 2014.  Go here to see more photos of his from yesterday; including pics of Little League Star Mo'ne Davis.

On the 4 to 1 win the Dodgers maintain their 2.0 game lead over the Giants.  Now, below are some links to check out.

• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Mo’ne Davis lights up Dodger Stadium."  He shares a bunch of pics and videos of the young hurler.
• ICYMI: The Dodgers called up Erisbel Arruebarrena, Carlos Frias and Miguel Rojas as a part of their September roster expansion.  BTW, Frias is expected to start this afternoon's game.
• Watch Buster Olney's interview with Clayton Kershaw at ESPN, here.
• Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Andres Santiago, Chris O'Brien win Southern League weekly honors."
• Ron Shah at FanGraphs shares a scouting report on Julio Urias and wonders, "Is Julio Urias Ready For The Big Leagues?"  No... Come one now! 
• Via Brian Macpherson at the Providence Journal, "Money can't buy success for MLB teams anymore." 

But more than at any time in the last decade, the relationship between payroll and wins is almost nonexistent. Teams that once could acquire the game’s best players through the depth of their pocketbooks now find themselves with diminishing opportunities to spend their money in ways that will help them win games.

• Denard Span of the Nationals explains his two home runs against the Dodgers on Monday, via the DC Sports Blog-The Washington Post.

“Last night, I did eat Roscoe’s chicken and waffles,” Span said. “I think that might have helped a little bit tonight.”

Roscoe's!  The elixir of the Gods!

• Tim Dierkes at MLB Trade Rumors takes a look the "2015 Free Agent Power Rankings."  Is there anybody there you would like to see in Dodger Blue next year?
• Via Tom Bartsch at Sports Collectors Digest, "Catching Up With Cardboard Pioneer Sy Berger."  Berger was the top dog at Topps during the golden years of Baseball card production.
• The Los Angeles Kings just released their promotional schedule for the upcoming season.  Check it out here.  BTW, Dodger Night will on Tuesday, November 18th.  Other must attend games include replica Stanley Cup ring night on Thursday, October 16th and Opening Night, Wednesday, October 8th, to watch the Sharks sulk as we raise our Stanley Cup Banner!  I am sad to report that there will be no bobbleheads.  Boo!

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Welcome to the Blue, Joc and Yimi! - The First Round of September Call Ups

It's September 1st, Labor Day, and besides an afternoon of barbecue and family it is also a time when every Major League team expands their roster.  This afternoon, as reported widely on the 'net, the Dodgers have called up several players.  They include Alexander Guerrero, Tim Federowicz and Chris Perez (who returns from a rehab assignment).  Furthermore, coming up to the Dodgers for the very first time in their professional careers are star outfield prospect Joc Pederson and righthanded reliever Yimi Garcia.

UPDATE: Per a Dodgers press release, Carlos Triunfel has been designated for assignment to make room for Joc. 

Joc Pederson is probably the most anticipated call up of the bunch.  He is considered to be the Dodgers top minor league prospect, and will likely have the eyes of the world watching every step he takes.  He is a lefthanded slugger with five legit tools.  He can hit for average, hit for power, has excellent speed on the basepaths, has a great defensive centerfield game and a solid arm strong enough to cause baserunners to think twice.  It should be exciting to see if he can move his game to the Major League level.  Unfortunately, you shouldn't expect to see him play much this month, but he'll surely get a bit more than just a cup of coffee.

Yimi Garcia is a righthanded reliever who has recorded some impressive Minor League numbers.  This season in Albuquerque he struck out 69 while only walking 18.  Last year, while in Chattanooga, he did even better.  He struck out 85 and walked only 14 batters. His best pitch is clearly a slider that he uses to punch batters out.

BTW, it has been also been reported by Pedro Moura of the OC Register that Carlos Frias, Miguel Rojas and Erisbel Arruebarrena will be called up to the Dodgers tomorrow.  So, stay tuned for confirmation of that later on.

In celebration of Joc's and Yimi's promotion to the Dodgers I made the above fantasy cards for them.  I used photographs grabbed from Jon SooHoo's photog blog and both the 1964 and 1968 Topps Baseball card designs.

Below are the career Minor League statistics for Joc Pederson, via Baseball Reference:


Below are the career Minor League statistics for Yimi Garcia, via Baseball Reference:


UPDATE:  Via a Dodger press release on these call ups:

The Los Angeles Dodgers today recalled catcher Tim Federowicz (#26), right-handed pitcher Yimi Garcia (#63) and infielder/outfielder Alex Guerrero (#7) from Triple-A Albuquerque and selected the contract of outfielder Joc Pederson (#65) from Albuquerque. The club also reinstated right-handed pitcher Chris Perez from the 15-day disabled list (bone spurs, right ankle) and designated infielder Carlos Triunfel for assignment.

Federowicz has appeared in 18 big league games in two stints with the Dodgers this year, but tore up the Pacific Coast League with a .328 batting average, 26 doubles, 14 homers and 48 RBI in 78 games with Albuquerque. The 27-year-old posted a .297 batting average with runners in scoring position (22-for-74) for the Isotopes this season.

Garcia, 24, will be making his Major League debut after going 4-2 with five saves and a 3.10 ERA in 47 appearances with Triple-A Albuquerque. He limited right-handed hitters to a .200 batting average (28-for-14) and posted a 2.84 ERA (6 ER/19.0 IP) in 14 games after the All-Star break. The native of the Dominican Republic is in his sixth professional season after being signed as a non-drafted free agent on Jan. 29, 2009.

Guerrero will be making his first appearance on the big league roster since appearing in both games Down Under during MLB's Opening Series in Sydney. The 27-year-old hit .329 with 15 homers and 49 RBI in 65 games with Albuquerque, including a .356 batting average with runners in scoring position (26-for-73).

Pederson, who is making his first appearance on the Major League roster, was honored as the 2014 Pacific Coast League Most Valuable Player, the league's Rookie of the Year and as an outfielder on the All-PCL Team, after becoming just the fourth player in the 112-year history of the Pacific Coast League to post a 30-home run/30-steal season. The 22-year-old batted .303 with 30 steals (T-7th, PCL), 17 doubles, four triples, 33 homers (1st, PCL) and 78 RBI in 121 games with Triple-A Albuquerque this year.

Perez last pitched in a Major League game on Aug. 3 against Chicago-NL and made five rehab appearances with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga.

Triunfel played in 12 games in five stints with the Dodgers this season, his first year with the organization.

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Blog Kiosk: 8/31/2014 - Dodger Links - Losing Tough Again and Ryu & Uribe are Back

Just another tough loss for the Dodgers last night.  The Padres are showing that they are a team not to be ignored.  Sure, they can't hit a lick, but when you can send out hurlers who can pitch effectively it means you are always in the game.  Given some time and proper development we could see this franchise become relevant again.  BTW, four heirs to former Dodgers owner Walter O'Malley are part owners of the Padres, so the focus on pitching shouldn't be a surprise.  The Dodgers won due to pitching, and in a pitchers ballpark like PetCo there's no reason not to start there.

Last night, Zack Greinke matched wits and skills with Padres starting pitcher Ian Kennedy.  They both gave up just one run apiece and didn't figure in the final decision.  Defense ruled the day for the Dodgers.  They made some spectacular plays to help their pitchers along; including a diving catch into the stands by Justin Turner.  Check out some videos of the more remarkable Dodger defensive plays here, via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider.  The photo above is of Turner making the death-defying catch, via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2014.  Go here to see more photos from the game.

For the second straight game these clubs went into extra innings, and the Padres pulled it out again with walkoff victory.  The Dodgers just couldn't capitalize on their opportunities.  They left ten men on base, and only scored because Adrian Gonzalez homered to tie the game in the sixth inning.

They play their rubber match this afternoon.  Hopefully, the Dodgers can salvage the series with a victory.

As it now stands, the Dodgers hold a perilous 2.5 game lead over the Giants.  I'm starting to sweat as we come down the stretch.  Now, below are more links to check out:

• ICYMI, Hyun-Jin Ryu has been activated off the DL to start the game this afternoon.  Carlos Frias is option to AAA, but you should expect that too last long.  Rosters expand on Monday, and I suspect Frias will be immediately brought back then.
• Juan Uribe has also been reinstated from the DL and will bat sixth in this afternoons lineup.  Infielder Miguel Rojas was optioned, but like Frias you should expect him back once rosters expand on Monday.
• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Dodgers remain on record strikeout pace."

Back in April – admittedly, when the season wasn’t even a month old – I couldn’t help but comment on the remarkable number of strikeouts that were piling up in Dodger games.

• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Bench coach Wallach designed unusual shift."

"I started thinking about it the previous at-bat," said Wallach, who left third baseman Justin Turner in his normal spot with the rest of the left side of the infield unprotected. "I thought it for sure was the right thing to do for Smith. Almost every ground ball he hits to the right side."

• Via Mark Saxon at ESPNLosAngeles.com, "Yasiel Puig slump sparks concern."

"The season is long, and it wears you down," Mattingly said. "It's part of learning to regulate yourself here, as far as rest or anything else. We've seen Dee Gordon and how much more consistent his approach is day in and day out now, staying at a certain level. I think Yasiel's really emotional, and it's hard to be really emotional and play 162."

• Via Bill Plunkett at the OC Register, "Kemp's power is back in a big way."

Don Mattingly said: “I don’t know if he’s just getting healthy after a couple years of injuries. Is he getting more confident that he’s been able to stay out there and he’s feeling good, you know? … But he’s definitely getting back to looking like himself.”

• Holy Mackerel!  Via Mina Kimes at ESPN The Magazine, "Curt Flood's monopoly man."  A single collector has been hoarding 1964 Topps Curt Flood cards for decades, and is thought to own a quarter of all those that exist.  His efforts have caused values to be unreasonably high for set collectors.
• Via Mark Townsend at Big League Stew, "Japanese high school game spans four days and 50 innings."  Wha...?

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Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Miguel Rojas and a Hanley Bobblehead

Here are this weekends autograph opportunities and events throughout the Southland. As always, be sure to check the Blue Heaven Calendar for other events (a link can always be found on the tab at the top of this page, just left of center), and always confirm with the establishment. Everything is subject to change.  Please email me with any tips about upcoming events in Southern California.  As the rest of the week progresses I'll update this post with other events (if there are any) as I become aware of them.  Also, I don't always list every event below, so be sure to check my Calendar.  I always try to favor free signing events over paying events.  Click on any pic to embiggen.

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(pic via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2014)

Dodger shortstop Miguel Rojas will be at Manuel's Original El Tepeyac Cafe in the City of Industry on Saturday August 16, 2014 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  Go here for information or here. I believe this is his first Southern California autograph appearance.  Prices:  $25.00 any item (baseballs, photos, helmets, bats, jerseys etc.) and inscriptions: $10.00 each.

Manuel's Original El Tepeyac Cafe #2
13131 Crossroads Pkwy South
City of Industry, CA 91746

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The Rancho Cucmonga Quakes will be giving out a Hanley Ramirez Bobblehead to fans on Friday, August 15th during their home game against the Storm.  Go here for information.

(Photo via @RCQuakes on twitter)

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Blog Kiosk: 8/12/2014 - Dodger Links - Correia Impresses in Dodger Debut

Kevin Correia was outstanding in his starting pitching debut for the Dodgers.  He did everything the internals said he would do, and more.  He threw strikes, walked only one batter and got a lot of ground ball outs.  That is par for the course for Correia.  What was surprising is that he recorded 5 strike outs in six innings pitched; which is higher than normal for him.  Correia is usally a pitch-to-contact hurler, so to get that many swing-and-misses is rare and a blessing.   Overall, you have to appreciate the effort and be thankful that the Dodger brass saw something in Correia that the chattering class did not see.

Kevin Correia on #Dodgers debut: "I was excited. I hadn’t had that feeling since being called up. That's what it felt like"
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) August 12, 2014

As it now stands, Correia is expected to go to the bullpen as our long-guy out of the 'pen, and will likely be our first option for a spot start in the future.  Graphic above via @Dodgers on twitter.

The Dodgers are now 5.0 games ahead of the Giants.  Now, here are some more links to check out.

• Miguel Rojas is now on twitter.  Follow him here: @MRojasOfficial.
• ICYMI:  The Dodgers optioned Pedro Baez back to Albuquerque in order to officially place Kevin Correia on the 24-man roster.
• Watch Clayton Kershaw on the Dan Patrick Show at AM570.com.  He speaks about his new-found success hitting, how he changes on game day, the possibility of winning the MVP this year, which hitters own him and why he wanted to stop answering questions about Mike Trout after one game.
• Who says our bench sucks?  August Fagerstrom at FanGraphs notes that the 2014 Dodgers bench has the highest WAR of all Major League clubs.

Anyway, this list kind of surprised me, but I guess it makes sense considering Justin Turner has provided more value himself than the entire bench units of 28 other teams. Turner has always been a league average hitter who can play all four infield positions, making him a pretty valuable piece off the bench. Then there’s Scott Van Slyke, whose three true outcome approach coupled with his ability to play surprisingly well in the outfield makes him a pretty valuable piece off the bench, too.

• Last year, I wrote a Collector Spotlight story on a Dodger collector named Fred Kranz.  He was kind enough to share photos from his massive collection; including his garage of dreams.  Check out my story here.  Well, Fred just let me know that his collection has just been spotlighted in the newest issue of ESPN Magazine.  Check out a pic of the feature on the right.
• It's about time.  Via Wendy Thurm at FanGraphs, "Consumers Suing MLB Over Exclusive Broadcast Territories."

A federal judge in New York ruled on Friday that Major League Baseball will face trial for violations of federal antitrust laws by stemming the exclusive broadcast territories for each of its 30 teams. Several regional sports networks and cable and satellite companies that benefit from the exclusive territories will also face trial on antitrust charges.

• I used to hate former Kings defenseman Rob Blake for leaving the team, but after many years and a couple Stanley Cup Championships I no longer dislike the guy.  Time can sure mend fan wounds... Oh, and Championships.  That being said, it has just been announced that the Kings will retire Rob Blake's #4 jersey this coming season, via Jon Rosen at the LA Kings Insider.  No matter your thoughts about him, you have to agree that he was one of the more impactful defensemen the Kings have ever had, and he deserves to have his number retired.
• Just another vintage Baseball find.  Via Lynn Elber at WTOP.com, "PBS' antiques show finds $1 million baseball trove."

She said it's the largest sports memorabilia find in the history of the 19-year-old public TV show, which travels America looking for varied heirlooms and treasures.

The collection was brought to an "Antiques Roadshow" taping Saturday in New York City. The owner inherited it from her great-great-grandmother, who ran a Boston boarding house where the team lived in 1871-72, PBS said.

Tom Bartsch at Sports Collectors Digest has a photo of the find, and lets us know that the episode will air in 2015.

• Just another reason to hate cable companies.  Another customer service recording has just come to light and it's worse than the last one.  Chris Morran at the Consumerist has the story.  So, tell me again why we should be happy to see TWC join forces with Comcast?  It's a potential marriage in hell. 

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Blog Kiosk: 8/9/2014 - Dodger Links - Some Odds and Ends

Newest Dodger Roberto Hernandez was better than described.  After a shaky first inning that saw him give up two early runs, he got out the next 17 straight batters.   Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, Roberto said,

"I was a little bit nervous today. The first inning, I tried too much, but I forget about that. After that I kept the ball down, got ahead in the count."

Overall, he pitched six innings, struck out five, gave up three hits and walked none.  Unfortunately, the team couldn't preserve the small lead entrusted to them.  A comedy of errors, typical of a Baseball, ruined that.  Justin Turner, who had just gotten into the game in the 7th inning, made a spectacular play on a rising liner off the bat of Aramis Ramirez.  Then, the proverbial bubble popped.

A certain double play ball skipped past the glove of Justin Turner, then a little nubber, two errors by Turner and a 2-run single sealed the door.  The Brewers took a commanding 6 to 3 lead over the Dodgers and never looked back. 

Oy Vie!  Baseball sure is a funny game.  Just when you thought you had it beat, it decides to throw you a curve to keep you humble.  This is just one of those games you just have to forget.  Photo at the very top via @Dodgers on twitter.

• At least this highlight from last nights game exist, via the Dodgers on tumblr.  Watch Puig's check-swing broken bat.

• Via Bill Plunkett at the OC Register, "Dodgers' bubble machine creates an MLB soap opera."

“Does that thing bother me? No, it doesn’t bother me,” Mattingly said. “I’m not saying I like it. But other teams are allowed to ride a stick horse down their dugout. Ours is no different. Really – Tampa rides a stick horse down the dugout. What’s the difference?

“Everybody’s got something.”

• Via Tom Bartsch at Sports Collectors Digest, "Yasiel Puig Signs Exclusive Deal With Fanatics Authentic."
• Via Eric Nusbaum of Vice Sports, "Of Anaheim: Why the Angels will always be an afterthought."

Perhaps this is the Angels' problem, and the root of their repeated identity crises: They are too suburban for their own good, ruined as it were, by their location among a thousand neighborhoods with names that start with Rancho and Laguna. The Dodgers have been shaped by the city around them. They have become a cosmopolitan enterprise, headlined over the years by a diverse cast of base-stealers and left-handed starters and international phenoms. But the Angels have no city to shape them. Orange County is contrived, nothing more than a nice place to live, a successful real estate deal. But comfortable living does not necessarily make for compelling local culture.

• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Rojas impressing Mattingly with defense."

"What about Rojas?" Mattingly asked. "Nobody asked me about Rojas. He saved four or five hits."

• Bob Timmermann at the Portable Griddle is putting together a list of Dodger players who had a different name than what they had with the Dodgers.

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Blog Kiosk: 7/10/2014 - Dodger Links - Beckett, Crawford and Puig's Finger Wag

Miguel Rojas hit his first career home run yesterday afternoon in a losing effort against the Detroit Tigers.  The Dodgers lost the game 4 to 1.  We are now tied with the Giants in the NL West.  Pic above via @Dodgers on twitter.

• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Mattingly believes Beckett won't be out long."  BTW, Gurnick also notes that the Dodgers have plans in place if Kershaw starts the for the NL in the All-Star Game, but didn't provide details.

"I can't say for sure, but I'm pretty confident it won't be months and months," Mattingly said of Beckett's likely return. "He's been dealing with it and pitching well. We hope a little time off will help. We're confident he'll be back and able to pitch."

• This is really not surprise.  Via Bill Shaikin at the LA Times, "Dodgers: Carl Crawford on the bench when he returns ."
• CJ Fogler shared a gif from Tuesday's awful game that had me rolling - even though it was from a game I'd rather forget and the runner was ultimately called safe on replay.  It was titled: "Yasiel Puig has learned the Mutombo finger wag."  Puig was giving Tori Hunter a warning... "you shouldn't run on me."

• Via Teddy Cahill at MLB.com, "No. 2 prospect Pederson returns from Triple-A DL."
• Via Ron Cervenka at Think Blue LA, "Caughel strengthens case for promotion to Chattanooga."

“It’s fun when everything’s working,” said Caughel after Wednesday’s matinee game at LoanMart Field. “Just pounding the zone like I always do and just getting better. I just want to keep taking the lessons to be learned and use those to get better.”

• In celebration of their selection to the 2014 All-Star Game Topps has created prints for each team member.  The 10' x 14' prints are as thick as a vintage Baseball card, are limited to just 99 copies and they borrow a design from the 1958 Topps All-Star subset.  Go here for information.  BTW, Clayton Kersahaw has a second All-Star Game print available called a "Diamonds" print that is limited only 10 copies.  See it below.

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Blog Kiosk: 6/27/2014 - Dodger Links - Uribe's Back, Hanley Should be on the Mend and TV Deal Heartache

Awesome!  Christopher Lloyd visited Dodger Stadium last night to announce the Dodgers lineup.  In the photo above he is with Scott Van Slyke.  Pic via @Dodgers on twitter.

• ICYMI: Juan Uribe came back to the Dodgers from the DL yesterday, and Carlos Triunfel was sent back to Albuquerque.
• Via Nathan Fenno at the LA Times, "Judge declines to dismiss lawsuit against Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig."
• Thank goodness, via a tweet from the @Dodgers:

 

The MRI on Hanley Ramirez’s right shoulder showed no structural damage. He is day to day and will be able when his pain subsides. #Dodgers
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 27, 2014

• Via Bill Plunkett at the OC Register, "Dodgers' TV deal dilemma affects no-hitter ratings."

“I don’t know what to make about ratings,” Dodgers team president and CEO Stan Kasten said. “I do know in terms of the metrics we deal with – ticket sales, sponsorships, etc. – everything is up, it’s very strong. Facebook followers, Twitter followers. It’s really a golden era for the Dodgers.

The saddest thing is that there are a whole bunch of Dodger fans who are missing the magic of Vin Scully on the tube, and nobody in "the know" seems to care about that.  Frankly, I don't think they'll ever get their act together this season, and I fear 2015 will be just the same.  After all, I don't think there's any sense of urgency.  This is a battle of wills between multibillion dollar businesses, so fans are left hanging in the lurch. And don't whine to me that Kasten and his group had no idea this would happen - that's a load of bull.  Kasten is an old cable TV guy who is smart enough to know what's been going on in the industry the past few years.  They knew very well it was likely that an entire season would be lost.

• Vie Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Chad Billingsley has successful elbow surgery to repair torn flexor tendon."
• That arm!  Gif via Dodgers on Tumblr. Could we be in the midst of witnessing a Kemp revival?  I hope so.  And, how about Beckett, eh?  Or, Turner off the bench to drive in the eventual winning run?  And, the bullpen shutting the door on last nights the game?  Or, Rojas ably filling in at short and getting two hits; including the first one off Wainwright?  As Jon Weisman wrote at Dodger Insider, this team won with some grit.  BTW, the Dodgers are now just 2 games back of the Giants.  WooHoo!

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