Blog Kiosk: 7/26/2019 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Check out this fantastic photograph that is currently available at Heritage Auctions (link here). It features Jackie Robinson, wearing a Montreal Royals uniform, shaking hands with the legendary Honus Wagner prior to the start of an exhibition/barnstorm game in October 1946. Heritage includes a link to a story about the game (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette -- "Around Town: Jackie Robinson quietly showed how to integrate one day here in '46"):

The 4 o'clock game pitted a team of major leaguers -- largely Pirates and Cincinnati Reds, second-division clubs -- against "Jackie Robinson's all-stars." The great Honus Wagner, then 72, managed the major leaguers, and a three-paragraph item at the bottom of the page the next day declared: "Robinson Stars As Team Wins." 

About 3,000 watched as "Robinson cracked out a single, double and triple and fielded flawlessly at shortstop . . .The Negro star, who starred with Montreal and is the property of the Brooklyn Dodgers, drew praise from his major-league opponents on his fine play."

BTW, Jackie's team included several teammates from Montreal -- Marvin Rackley, Al Campanis and John Wright (also a Negro Leaguer). Additionally, Larry Doby, Monte Irvin and Roy Campanella joined his "Jackie Robinson All-Stars" that winter. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1948 Leo Durocher, the traitorous manager who jumped ship to the hated NY Giants just ten days prior, shows up in ugly Halloween orange at Ebbets Field for the first time since stabbing Dodger fans in the back. He is not greeting warmly, but he has the last laugh. The Giants win 13-4. In 1950 Dodgers outfielder Jim Russell becomes the first ballplayer in major league history to hit a home run from both sides of the plate during a game for the second time in a career. His record is eventually surpassed by Mickey Mantle in 1956 when he accomplished the feat for a third time. In 1991 Montreal starter Mark Gardner no-hit the Dodgers for nine innings, but eventually lost the game in the tenth. He allowed two singles and reliever Jeff Fassero gave up the winning hit to lose, 1-0.  Dodger pitchers Orel Hershiser, Kevin Gross and Jay Howell combine for a two hit shutout. In 1995 the Dodgers signed free agent amateur pitcher Eric Gagne out of Seminole State College. In 2008 the Dodgers received third baseman Casey Blake from the Indians for Jon Meloan and Carlos Santana. 
• Happy Birthday, John Butler, Sam Leslie, Hoyt Wilhelm, Glenn Mickens, Jody Reed & Brandon Morrow!

Blog Kiosk: 4/18/2019 - Dodgers Links - Sweep!

Four great starts in a row has fueled the Dodgers four-game winning streak. Last Night was Walker Buehlers turn to turn it on... And what a bright light be was. Per Rowan Kavner at Dodger Insider:

“He was getting into a groove,” said manager Dave Roberts. “He’s been kind of tinkering with his delivery, but today he had a lot of good feel. He’s kind of like that sports car. If there’s anything just not right, then he’s off. So he kind of worked through it, and we needed that.”

Walker went 6.1 innings, allowing just three hits and one walk, while striking out eight Reds batters to defeat Cincinnati, 3-2 (boxscore). Photo above via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2019 at Dodger Insider. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1925 Charles Ebbets, the Dodgers owner and president, dies of an heart attack on the morning of his teams home opener at Ebbets Field. In 1939 Red Barber announces the first ever regular season Dodger game to be broadcast in Brooklyn. In 1946 Jackie Robinson makes his debut as a second baseman for the Montreal Royals. He belts a home runs and records three singles. In 1947 Burt Shotten is named the Dodgers manager - replacing Leo Durocher who was suspended by the league ten days prior. In 1950 Vin Scully calls his very first game as a Dodgers broadcaster. In 1952 Willie Mays is knocked unconscious when he runs in to the Ebbets Field outfield wall while making a game saving catch. In 1958 Los Angeles holds a downtown parade for the the Dodgers before their first home game at the Coliseum. A National League record 78,672 fans crowd the stadium to watch their new team defeat the soon-to-be-hated Giants, 6-5. In 1964 Sandy Koufax throws his second career Immaculate Inning - three strike outs on nine pitches during one inning. In 1966 Maury Wills becomes the first batter to get a hit on artificial grass - a single off of Robin Roberts at the Astrodome. In 2008 the Dodgers announce that Joe Beimel had been selected by fans to get a bobblehead. You can see that bobble on the right.
• Happy Birthday, Hughie Hearne, Tommy McMillan, Nick Polly, Bobby Castillo, Jim Eisenreich & Brady Clark!

Blog Kiosk: 4/17/2019 - Dodgers Links - "That's Called a Winning Streak"

Winning is infectious.

Last night Kenta Maeda continued the parade by going a solid 6.2 innings to help the Dodgers win their third consecutive game (boxscore). Since Stripling's start on Sunday Dodger starters have given up just 13 hits in 21.2 innings -- yielding just four earned runs, four walks while striking out 14 batters. Per Rowan Kavner at Dodger Insider:

“That’s what our guys are capable of,” Roberts said. “It’s one of those things where I think Ross started that and the momentum sort of builds from there and the next guy wants to do the same thing.”

Photo above Juan Ocampo/Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Insider. Go here to check out more pics from yesterdays game. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1934 Casey Stengel made his managerial debut as the Dodgers skipper as Brooklyn defeated the Boston Braves, 8-7. In 1947 Jackie Robinson recorded his first major league hit -- a bunt single down the third base line off of Boston Braves hurler Glenn Elliott. In 1955 Roberto Clemente, who started out as a Dodger prospect, singles off of Dodger pitcher Johnny Podres for his first major league hit. In 1956 future Hall of Famer Don Drysdale pitched in his very first game. He threw one inning of hitless relief in the ninth inning of a losing game. In 1994 the Dodgers belted 19 runs against the hapless Pirates to tie a club record for most runs in a game. In 2013 Clayton Kershaw struck out his 1,000th batter of his career -- the victim was Padres first baseman Yonder Alonso.
• Happy Birthday, Ad Yale, Jake Daubert, Stan Andrews, Marquis Grissom & Gary Bennett!

UPDATED: NLCS Series Against Brewers Starts on Friday -- A Homestand Preview - Pregame Info and Other Stuff

The National League Championship Series match-up between the Dodgers and the Milwaukee Brewers begins on Friday. Below are some odds and ends for this series. Here are some important links:

• 2018 Broadcast Schedule
• Parking Information 
• Dodger Stadium Express / LA Metro  
• Dodgers Postseason Information
• Brewers Postseason Information 

I will update this post as more information becomes available for each game.

BTW, the umpires for this series (per Craig Calcaterra at NBC) is as follows (for Game 1). Obviously, assignments will change from game to game:

Home: Scott Barry
1B: Alan Porter
2B: Gerry Davis*
3B: Hunter Wendelstedt
LF: Jim Wolf
RF: Brian Gorman
Replay, Games 1-2: Greg Gibson
Replay, Games 3-7: Scott Barry

----------------------------

Below are the rosters. Click on any pic to embiggen:

Dodgers                           Brewers

Blog Kiosk: 8/9/2018 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

This is why you know he's the greatest. Per Ken Gurnick at MLB.com:

"I didn't have much of anything tonight. It was pretty much smoke and mirrors," said Kershaw. "That's a good team. I was getting ahead of a few guys, but a lot of hits with two strikes. Didn't have those put-away pitches tonight. This was definitely not one of my most memorable performances, that's for sure."

Even with him being less than his best Kershaw was still able to hold a playoff contending club to only two runs in six innings. Heck, this was only the second start of his career where he was only able to strike out one batter.

Unfortunately, we ended up on the wrong side of the win column last night, 3-2. Photo above via Christine Kroeckel/MLB.com at Dodger Insider. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1975 Davey Lopes stole his 32nd consecutive base without being caught, breaking Max Carey's 1922 record. He would steal six more bases before getting called out. His record would eventually be broken by Cardinal's speedster Vince Coleman in 1989.  In 1976 Pirates hurler John Candelaria no-hit the Dodgers at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh. In 1979 longtime Dodgers owner Walter O'Malley died of congestive heart failure at the age of 75.
• Happy Birthday, John Grim, Leo Callahan, Johnny Mitchell, Tom Sunkel, Chuck Essegian, Claude Osteen, Matt Young & Drew Butera!

Blog Kiosk: 11/28/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation has just opened up a new program called, "Dodgers Foundation Blue Circle." A donation will support their mission to create opportunities for children in need through programs that focus on engaging kids in sports, helping kids stay active, and promoting academic success. On top of that, you can get some cool giveaways depending on the level of your donation. Go here for more information.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1950 Burt Shotten is fired as manager of the Dodgers.  Chuck Dressen, who was managing the Oakland Oaks of the PCL, is named as his replacement. In 1969 second baseman Ted Sizemore is named the NL Rookie of the Year. He became the seventh Dodger to win the award. In 1970 starting pitcher Rick Sutcliffe is named the NL Rookie of the Year. He received 20 of 24 first-place votes.
• Happy Birthday, Billy Gasparino, Jose Parra, Ken Howell, Frank O'Rourke & Pedro Astacio!

Blog Kiosk: 11/27/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

I would like to extend a hearty Blue Heaven congratulations to Dodgers hurler Alex Wood. Over the weekend he tied the knot in what looks like a gala affair. Check out what I mean in the photo above that was shared by Alex on Instagram.

On a side note, this recent marriage adds to my desire that the club should briefly rename the club the "Bridegrooms" for one game next year - just to celebrate not only the Dodgers past, but also the individual futures of our players.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1953 Roy Campanella is the named the National League MVP for the second time in his career. He slashed .312/.395/.611/1.006 with 41 homer runs, a league leading 142 RBI's and recorded 7.1 WAR. In 1956 Don Newcombe was awarded the inaugural Cy Young Award, going 27-7 with a 3.06 ERA. A week prior he was given both the MVP and Rookiw of the Year Awards; thereby becoming the first and only player to win all three major awards for a pitcher in one season.
• Happy Birthday, Jimmy Schmitz, Mike Scioscia & Jimmy Rollins!

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Garvey, Worthy, Ferragamo and Reggie Smith

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.

---------------------------

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: DodgerFest at Frank & Sons - 10 Different Players

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.

---------------------------

There's really only one thing to pay attention to this weekend, and it's the Dodgerfest event being held at Frank & Sons on Saturday.  Go here and here for information.  Click on any flyer below to embiggen.

Ten current and former Dodger players will be in attendance.  Even a former Raider football player will be there. 

Autograph Appearance Times:

• Don Newcombe - stage time:  11:30am - 1:00pm 
• Maury Wills - stage time:  1:00pm - 2:30pm
• Wally Moon - stage time: 11:30am - 12:30pm
• Reggie Smith - stage time:  2:00pm - 3:00pm
• Ron Cey - stage time:  1:30pm - 2:30pm
• Rick Honeycutt - stage time:  10:30am - 11:30am
• Steve Yeager - stage time:  10:30am - 11:30am
• Charlie Hough - stage time:  10:00am - 11:00am
• Juan Castro - stage time:  10:00am - 11:00am
• Alex Wood - stage time:  11:00am - 12:00pm

Special Guest:

• Fred Biletnikoff - Raiders Super Bowl XI MVP - stage time:  1:30pm - 2:30pm

Frank & Son Collectible Show
19649 San Jose Ave
City of Industry, CA 91748

Dodgers Notes from Spring Training: Spring Game 33 / Road Game 18

Throughout Spring Training the Dodgers PR department sends out helpful daily notes from Camelback Ranch, and I am happy to pass them along.  See what they've written below.

--------------------------

Los Angeles Dodgers (16-9-7) at L.A. Angels (13-14-1)
Thursday, April 2, 2015 – 7:05 p.m. PT | Angel Stadium

BULLPEN GAME (TBD) vs. RHP Matt Shoemaker (1-2, 5.21)
TV: SNLA Radio: AM 570

--------------------------

(Clayton Kershaw, pic via @Dodgers on twitter)

SO CAL SPECIAL: The Dodgers return to Southern California tonight with the first of three exhibition games against the Angels, before the season begins on Monday, April 6, against the Padres at Dodger Stadium. Tomorrow night, the squads will be back at Angel Stadium and then close out the Freeway Series at Dodger Stadium Saturday at 6:10 p.m.  The clubs will face off six times during the regular season, July 31-Aug. 2 at Dodger Stadium and Sept. 7-9 at Angel Stadium.

• Last year, the Dodgers won the season series between the clubs, 3-1, their first victory in the season series since 2006 (4-2).
• In anticipation of the Freeway Series, the clubs partnered on a billboard in Hollywood to celebrate the 2014 Most Valuable Player Awards of Clayton Kershaw and Mike Trout, with the script “Is Your MVP Red Or Blue.” Fans are encouraged to show their support by utilizing the hashtags #MVPKersh and #MVPTrout.
• On this date in 1962, the Dodgers and Angels played their first-ever game against each other with the Halos coming out on top, 6-5.
• Los Angeles has the National League’s top winning percentage this spring at .640 (16-9-7) and has established a new franchise record with seven ties.
• The Dodgers will have a bullpen game tonight with the starter still undecided. Those expected to see action include Mike Adams and Sergio Santos.
• Opening Day is just FOUR days away!

PADDING THE RECORD: The Dodgers allowed two runs to the Royals in the bottom of the ninth yesterday and ended up in a record-setting seventh tie this spring, 4-4. The contest in Surprise was the club’s last Cactus League game in Arizona and the final tuneup for NL MVP Clayton Kershaw, who allowed one unearned run in 3.0 innings. Kershaw posted a 1.61 ERA this spring, picking up right where he left off in the 2014 campaign, when he produced the lowest ERA (1.77) since Pedro Martinez’s 1.74 in 2000. Following Kershaw to the mound was Zach Lee, who allowed three runs in 5.1 innings and finished the spring with a 2.89 ERA. At he plate, Darwin Barney went 2-for-2 with a run scored, A.J. Ellis doubled and drove in a run and minor leaguer Travis Witherspoon went 2-for-2 with a home run.

(Darwin Barney, pic via @Dodgers on twitter)

A PLEASANT GOOD AFTERNOON: The Dodgers and the Los Angeles Police Department are spreading the word that fans should not park on the Avenue of the Palms (Stadium Way) between Scott Road and Academy Road. This street will have a “No Parking” restriction from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Opening Day, April 6. In addition, in order to keep all attendees safe, LAPD officers will be patrolling the area and will enact a zero tolerance policy for drinking in public or in the parks. Tailgating is not permitted on the Dodger Stadium premises. The Dodgers and the LAPD wish everyone a safe and fun-filled day of baseball, and ask fans to respect the neighborhood and stay safe.  I had previously written about some of the specific restrictions being put into place here.  Many of the neighborhood streets in the Echo Park and Solano Canyon area will have 2-hour parking restrictions.

SAFETY FIRST: Dodger fans will experience new security procedures set forth by Major League Baseball beginning with the Freeway Series finale on Saturday, April 4 with the Angels and running through the 2015 MLB season. MLB will be implementing new mandatory security procedures through a metal detector-enhanced screening process. This procedure, which resulted from a recent study of best security practices and MLB’s continuing work with the Department of Homeland Security to elevate and standardize initiatives across the game, will be in addition to bag checks that have been uniform throughout MLB.  Fan screening may be conducted by means of hand-held metal detection or walk-through magnetometers. These procedures were utilized periodically at certain gates during the 2014 season and all 30 Major League Baseball teams will institute these procedures this year.

FOLLOW THE CACTUS LEADERS: The Dodgers have blasted a Major League lead-tying 47 home runs (the Cubs also have 47) and have a .286 team batting average (3rd, NL) with a .488 slugging percentage (1st, NL) this spring.

• Joc Pederson continues to rank among the NL leaders this spring in batting average (.368, 5th), slugging percentage (.754, 1st), hits (21, T-8th), runs (13, T-3rd), total bases (43, 2nd) and home runs (6, T-2nd).
• Justin Turner has hit safely in 15 of his last 16 games and is batting .477 with six doubles, three homers and eight RBI, while posting a .500 on-base percentage and a .818 slugging percentage in 18 Cactus League games.
• Yasiel Puig ranks among the NL’s best this spring in home runs (5, T-4th) while Kiké Hernandez places among the league’s best in home runs (5, T-4th) and runs scored (12, T-7th).

THE BIG 7-0: The Dodgers would like to wish a very happy birthday to Hall of Famer Don Sutton, who turns 70 years old today. Joining Sutton in celebrating his birthday is legendary Dodger slugger Reggie Smith, who also turns 70. Happy Birthday guys!

(Jackie Robinson, pic via @Dodgers on twitter)

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: DODGERFEST!

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.

---------------------------

This is the big Dodger signing event of the winter.  Frank & Sons in the City of Industry is hosting DODGERFEST this coming Saturday, and a whole bunch of former Dodger players will be there.  Check out the flyer below.  You can also go here or here for more information.  The first link for Hall of Fame sports includes prices and appearance times for all of the players.  Go here for that.  BTW, there are a handful of Baseball/sports card and memorabilia dealers at this show, so there is plenty to do. 

If you do attend I suggest getting there very early.  Parking availability at this facility is horrible... Like really horrible... Like so bad it always makes me think twice about attending events there.

Frank & Son Collectible Show
19649 E. San Jose Ave.
City of Industry, CA. 91748

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Braves Series Starts Tonight - Scheduled Autograph Signings, Game Give Aways and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts this evening against the Atlanta Braves, and several old-tyme Dodgers will be in the house to sign free autographs for fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

---------------

Tuesday, July 29th at 7:10 PM
RHP Josh Beckett vs. RHP Aaron Harang

Tonight's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM. This might be the coolest thing ever.  The first 40,000 fans will receive a Vin Scully 65th Anniversary Talking Microphone.  When you push a button you hear Vin Scully say, "It's time for Dodger Baseball."  Watch it here.  See it on the right.

Internationally renowned Rock Opera singer Alexander Kariotis will perform the national anthem. 

Former Dodgers Tim Leary (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Billy Ashley (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. 

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Navy Petty Officer First Class Gabriel Bocanegra. He enlisted in 1994 and immediately following boot camp was sent to train as a Hospital Corpsman learning preventive and Navy Environmental medicine. He is currently serving at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego providing care for sick and wounded sailors and marines. He has served nine deployments including Afghanistan and a tour in Iraq. Bocanegra’s accolades include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement and Commendation medals.

---------------

Wednesday, July 30th at 7:10 PM
RHP Zack Greinke vs. LHP Alex Wood

Wednesday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.  The Dodgers are hosting Japan Night at the Stadium.  Go here for information.  The Japan Pom Pom Girls and LA Matsuri Taiko will perform prior to the game. and the National Anthem sung by 2011 Nisei Week Queen Erika Makiko Olsen.  Her court will also be in attendance.

Also, LPGA champion and Pasadena native Mo Martin will throw the ceremonial first pitch. 

For this special day the Dodgers have created a Teriyaki Dog.  See it on the right.   It's an all-beef hotdog with Japanese mayo, teriyaki sauce, caramelized onions and nori seaweed.  It is available on this day only at the extreme loaded dog concession stands on the Field, Loge and Reserve levels. 

Former Dodgers Tommy Davis (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Dennis Powell (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.  Also, in celebration of Japan Day an origami workshop will be offered in the right-field pavilion plaza from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Navy Petty Officer First Class Steven De Avila. De Avila enlisted in 2001 and served with three other squadrons prior to being assigned to the Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 75 based in San Diego. As the lead Petty Officer of Aviation Mechanic and the squadron’s head mechanic he is in charge of ensuring the maintenance on 11 MH-6oR Helicopters. He has been deployed to the Middle East and the Persian Gulf on 3 occasions in addition to tours in Japan and the Pacific Rim. His accolades include five Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, Iraqi Campaign Medal and a battle Efficiency Medal.

---------------

Thursday, July 31st at 7:10 PM
LHP Clayton Kershaw vs. RHP Julio Teheran

Thursday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.  It is another Dodger bobblehead day. The first 50,000 fans will receive 30HR Club Bobblehead (Baker, Cey, Garvey, Smith).  See the bobblehead on the right.

Members of the 30 HR club Ron Cey and Reggie Smith will throw the ceremonial first pitch. Interscope Recording artist and LA native Jasmin V will perform the national anthem. 

Former Dodgers Matt Luke (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Derrel Thomas (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. 

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Army National Guard Sergeant First Class Daniel Acuna, who enlisted in 2002. He currently serves with HHB 1-144 FA as a Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems Specialist and a Firefinder Radar Operator. His deployments include Kandahar, Afghanistan, Kosovo and Guantanamo Bay Cuba. Acuna’s accolades include the Bronze Star, Nato Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Blog Kiosk: 6/26/2014 - Dodger Links - Some Odds and Ends

Check out this great photo of the Brooklyn Dodger broadcast crew in the pressbox at Ebbets Field (1953).  Vin Scully is seen just above the "G", pic via @Dodgers_History on twitter.  I believe Red Barber is to Vin's left and Connie Desmond is on his right.

• Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Dodgers starters have been in control this season."

On the season Dodgers starters lead baseball in xFIP (3.30), SIERA (3.36) and strikeout-to-walk ratio (3.83), are second in ERA (3.09) and walk rate (5.6 percent), third in quality starts (50), fifth in strikeout rate (21.6 percent), sixth in FIP (3.60), and eighth in innings per start (6.1).

• Via Bill Shaikin at the LA Times, "Dodgers' Yasiel Puig would 'absolutely welcome' home-run derby shot."

If he chooses me, I absolutely welcome it,” Puig told the Los Angeles Times through an interpreter, “but it doesn’t matter to me whether I play or not.”

• Here's an early look at the 30HR Club Bobblehead (Baker, Cey, Garvey, Smith) the Dodgers are giving out to fans on Thursday, July 31st.
• Mark Langill at Dodger Insider shares a great story from Don Newcombe - from how he got his start in Baseball to his time playing in the Minors in Nashua with Campanella.

“So one day during the season in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Alston gets tossed from a game around the fifth inning and we’re losing 2-1. Campy becomes the manager. Around the seventh inning, Campy says, ‘Roomie, I need you as a pinch-hitter.’ I hit a two-run home run and we won the game, 3-2. Roy was so proud of that game. He talked about that game for the rest of his life. It was a bigger thrill than him winning those three National League MVP awards.”

• You sneaky devils!  Via Josh Tucker at Dodger Insider, they remembered the 5th anniversary of Michael Jackson's passing through their tweets.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Some Vintage Dodgers Postcards for My Collection

I came across a good sized lot of older Dodgers postcards on eBay and decided to place a bid.  I've been wanting to put together a complete run of Dodgers postcards, but hadn't set out to really do it.  I guess I have no excuse now. 

The LA Dodgers issued postcards from 1959 to 1983.  They can range in prices and feature some of the greatest stars to ever put on the uniform.  If you are patient and willing to bargain hunt, you can complete a set from most years at very inexpensive prices.  I think the lone exception would be the older postcards; 1959 and 1960.  These two sets feature the LA Coliseum as a backdrop, and can often sell for a premium.  More modern postcards can be purchased for as little as a buck.  As you'll see, I did a bit better than that.

To my surprise, I won this auction with a total price of $9.00, delivered.  The total lot had 25 Dodgers postcards, of which 19 were unique.  Overall, I paid about $0.36 each.  What a bargain, eh?

Check out my bounty below.

I think my favorite postcard of the bunch is the one at the very top.  It shows Fernando Valenzuela at the White House. Nancy Reagan is in the foreground, and Ronald Reagan is in the background.  Strangely, this postcard (along with a Davey Lopes postcard w/o signature) does not appear to be a part of the postcards issued and sold by the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.  At least, the checklist I have doesn't list them.  It's likely, though, that they were sold at other retail establishments since they were produced by the same company that made the postcards for the Dodgers in 1983.

BTW, if you have some postcards to trade please let me know.  Maybe we can work out a trade.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Blog Kiosk: 11/12/2013 - Dodgers Links - Alexander Guerrero, Puig Comes in Second and Onelki Garcia has Surgery

The Dodgers held a special event at Dodger Stadium for Veterans Day, yesterday.  About 100 members of the armed forces came out for some batting practice.  Check out Tommy Lasorda in the photo above addressing the veterans, pic via twitter @Dodgers.  Austin Laymance at MLB.com writes about the afternoon: "Dodgers welcome troops for Veterans Day".  Jon SooHoo was there and shares a whole bunch of pics, here.

• Via Mark Saxon at ESPN, "Some pluses and minuses of a Kershaw mega-deal".
• Bill Vouroulias at FoxNews Latino speaks with Alexander Guerrero: "Newest Cuban Defector In Big Leagues, Alexander Guerrero, Says Talent Back Home Almost Gone".  (Hat Tip: Tony Jackson at Dodger Scribe)

“Now that people like Yasiel [Puig] and José Dariel [Abreu] are gone,” the Dodgers’ recent signee told Fox News Latino, “there are only five or six top-level ballplayers left.” After mentioning slugger Alfredo Despaigne he added, “There aren’t many others.”

• True to the Blue recaps his autograph experience at Frank & Sons - he got Reggie Smith and Steve Lyons.
• SCP Auctions announced that a couple of significant game-used Jackie Robinson bats will be on auction later this month.  Details here.

• Shawn Anderson of the Hall of Very Good shares his interview with "The Genius" Lanny Poffo, brother of Randy "Macho Man" Savage.

LANNY:   My brother (Macho Man) was a great hitter. He had a lot of pop in his bat. His swing was "a little too long" for a lot of the hitting coaches. His shoulder injuries led to throwing problems. He taught himself to throw left handed and signed with the White Sox as a first baseman in 1975. He made it through several cuts in Spring Training but was unconditionally released before the season started. He called it quits. He joined my Dad and me in Toledo, Ohio where we were working in Michigan, Ohio and Ontario. Ten years of hard work later, “The Macho Man” made his WWF debut.

• Josh Jackson at MiLB shares his picks for All-Stars within the Dodgers organization.
• JP Hoornstra at Inside the Dodgers tells us about Kemp and Billingley, and their ability to participate in Spring Training.  JP hears from their agent, Dave Stewart.
• Thw BBWAA elected Jose Fernandez as the NL Rookie of the Year.  Congrats!  I definitely believe he was more deserving.  Dodger Yasiel Puig came in 2nd with 4-1st place votes and Hyun-Jin Ryu came in 4th, overall.  Check out the official announcement from the BBWAA, here.
• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "(Onelki) Garcia gets cleanup surgery on pitching elbow".

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: DodgerFest -- Jaime Jarrin, Don Newcombe, Reggie Smith and More!

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.

---------------------------

This is a big autograph event.  Steve "Psycho" Lyons, Dennis Powell, Reggie Smith, Don Newcombe and Jaime Jarrin will be at Frank & Sons in the City of Industry.  Check out the flyers below.

Frank & Son Collectible Show
19649 East San Jose Avenue
City of Industry, California 91748

Parking and admission to the show is free!

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

2013 Panini USA Baseball Champions Set - The Dodgers' Players

Last week, Panini released a new Baseball card set.  It is focused on Team USA and includes many old faces familiar to Dodger fans.  Since none of the players are formerly shown connected to any particular team, I decided to pick and choose a handful of former Dodgers of note.  I also decided to include USC's great Baseball coach Rod Dedeaux.  He played in 2 games for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1935, and continued to maintain close ties to the team while compiling arguably the greatest resume for a college coach, ever.

Directly below are the former and current Dodgers' in the base set.

#2 Rod Dedeaux                               #11 Mark McGwire

#22 Shawn Green                              #23 Nomar Garciaparra

#28 Tommy Lasorda                                 #35 Reggie Smith

#55 Zach Lee                                        #89 Zach Lee

#93 Corey Seager

Here are the Dodgers' insert cards.

Diamond Kings Set Checklist

#4 Nomar Garciaparra

#11 Tommy Lasorda

Game Gear Jerseys Set

#52 Corey Seager

Game Gear Jerseys Prime Set

#52 Corey Seager #/ 99

Highlights Set Checklist

#1 Rod Dedeaux                                #4 Tommy Lasorda

#11 Nomar Garciaparra

The die-cut cards below come in various different parallel versions.  See examples of several different parallels below.  The B&W version are numbered to /699, the Mirror Red to /299, the Mirror Green to /199, the Mirror Blue to /199, and the Mirror Gold to /25.

Legends Certified Die-Cuts Set Checklist

#12 Shawn Green                                     #15 Rod Dedeaux

#19 Nomar Garciaparra                             #28 Mark McGwire

#33 Tommy Lasorda

Pride Set Checklist

#1 Rod Dedeaux                               #7 Nomar Garciaparra

#21 Mark McGwire

Stars and Stripes Signatures Set Checklist

#18 Mark McGwire #/73                      #35 Shawn Green #/229

#38 Nomar Garciaparra #/149                  #46 Tommy Lasorda #/250

Corey Seager also has an autographed Stars and Stripes card, but are only available via a redemption card.

#58 Zach Lee #/700

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *