Blog Kiosk: 1/10/2014 - Dodger Links - Ryu, Kendrick and McCarthy

What a fantastic photo pf Tommy Lasorda, his wife Jo and slugger Darryl Strawberry at a (what I believe is) MTV's "Rock 'N Jock" softball event in January of 1990.  Photo provided via Lasorda on his instagram.

Below are some links to check out:

• Nice find!  Via Orel at Sons of Steve Garvey, "3,311"  Found at the corner of Sunset and Elysian Park - at the main entrance for Dodger Stadium.
• Via Mike Petriello at FanGraphs, "Hyun-Jin Ryu: Quietly Awesome."
• via Ron Cervenka at Think Blue LA, "Dodgers Winter Development Camp about to get under way – unofficially."
• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Minor-league catcher Pratt Maynard retires."

“I’ve had health issues my whole career,” Maynard said today. “Last year, I had back problems twice. And I felt like it was time to move on. I knew I had the talent to make it, but I knew it was a matter of if I could stay healthy … You have to stay on the field and perform to make it in the big leagues. I just couldn’t stay healthy.”

• Dodger pitcher Brandon McCarthy pens an article for The Players' Tribune, "Hall of Denial."

The question of whether performance enhancing drug (PED) users should be allowed to gain admittance to the Hall of Fame is one that I’ve thought a lot about. Admittedly, it’s a mess. The ramifications extend far and wide, but I believe the answer is to admit those players whose on-field accomplishments merit it and leave history to be the final judge and jury. Ultimately, I believe the greatest injustice would be to leave worthy players—some of whom are objectively among the greatest ever—out of the Hall of Fame, when there very well may be guys already enshrined who have used performance enhancing drugs. 

• Via Jeff Sullivan at Just a Bit Outside, "The Most Quietly-Excellent Aspect of the Quietly Excellent Howie Kendrick."

So Kendrick didn't pop-up once over a full season. Now, he wasn't the only one. Last year, Shin-Soo Choo didn't register a pop-up. Neither did Joe Mauer. Christian Yelich only popped up on the very last day of the season. But, Kendrick batted a lot more often than Choo or Mauer did. And, this isn't just a 2014 phenomenon. It's not just that Kendrick didn't pop up -- it's that Kendrick has always only very seldom popped up. And that's an indicator of the very thing that makes him successful at the plate.

• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Garrett Gould, Ross Stripling on road back from Tommy John surgery."

“I just passed nine months, so I’m in the stage where I’m about to really start ramping everything up,” Stripling said Friday. “I took the holidays off — I was in Arizona right before Christmas, and that’s when I started flipping a couple of curveballs and changeups for the first time. Everything went great with that.

• Via Scott Andes at Lasorda's Lair, "Longtime Dodger Scott Elbert Signs With The Padres."

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The Ball's in Hanley's Court Now and Other Dodger Developments

The Dodgers have elected to extend an Qualifying Offer to Hanley Ramirez.  (No surprise, eh?)

The Dodgers have extended a qualifying offer to shortstop Hanley Ramirez.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) November 3, 2014

This means that Hanley has until November 10th to decide to take a 1-year $15.3Mil contract to play for the Dodgers in 2015, or he can become a free agent for the first time in his career.  If he decides to stay with the Dodgers (either to boost his potential value the following season or because he really wants to stay in LA), then that immediately solves any issues the team has with filling the short stop position next year.  If Hanley chooses the later, then the Dodgers will receive a compensation draft pick for the 2015 draft should he sign elsewhere.  They would also have to fill the vacancy at short stop.

I am certain that he'll decline the Qualifying Offer since he should be able to find a more lucrative multi-year contract with another club.  Besides, as Jon Weisman noted earlier today, every player given a Qualifying Offer since this process began a couple of years ago has declined.  So why buck that trend?

On the other hand, I believe his professed love of Los Angeles is genuine, so maybe... just maybe he takes it.  BTW, the Dodgers and Hanley could still negotiate a contract.  I just don't think the team is willing to provide the kind of long-term commitment Hanley wants.  They have plenty of options now; including Arruebarrena and Guerrero, while they wait for top-rated prospect Corey Seager to take over the position.

I should note that I do not believe the Dodgers will extend a multi-year contract to any available free agent to play short stop.  They are clearly trying to make room for their youngsters, and putting up a roadblock like that runs counter to what you should expect will happen with the Dodgers going forward.

Hanley Ramirez has been a great LA Dodger, and his leaving really sucks.  I've enjoyed watching him on and off the field, and I believe his departure will prove to be a big loss for that clubhouse.  That being said, times change and I don't think there's any question that this new phase of the Guggenheim ownership will result in a whole new Dodger team.

The pic above was taken the day Hanley first arrived in the Dodger clubhouse after being traded there in late-July 2012, via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2012.  He looked so young, didn't he?

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In another unsurprising move, Brian Wilson has decided to exercise his player option for the 2015 season.

Right-handed pitcher Brian Wilson exercised his option to return to the Dodgers for 2015.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) November 3, 2014

Brian Wilson has one year remaining on his contract and it's at $9.5Mil.  After a fantastic month and a half as a Dodger in 2013, Wilson's 2014 was sorely disappointing.  He appeared in 61 games with a 4.66 ERA, and recorded a 4.29 FIP.  Having displayed a glaring loss in velocity to his fastball, he was largely ineffective and mistrusted in relief. 

Hopefully, he can do better in 2015. It'll be just under three years since his Tommy John surgery in early 2012, so if his arm is indeed fine then the timing is good for him have a big rebound year.

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Scott Elbert is now a free agent.

Left-handed pitcher Scott Elbert has elected to become a free agent and has been removed from the Dodger roster.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) November 3, 2014

The Dodgers had outrighted Elbert for the purposes of reassigning him to the minor leagues.  As is a players option, Scott opted to become a free agent instead.

This is a bit surprising.  Scott had Tommy John Surgery in June 2013 and only just recently got back on the field to pitch.  He was effective, though, so that likely drives his belief that a better Major League option exist for him. 

In seven appearances at the tail-end of the 2014 season he gave up just four hits and one earned run.  He also pitched in the playoffs against the Cardinals, but got shelled.  Scott Elbert gave up the eventual game winning home run to Kolten Wong in Game 3 of that series.

Scott Elbert was the Dodgers 1st round draft pick in the 2004 draft and was considered, at one time, to be one of the best prospects in the Majors.  Unfortunately, arm problems cropped up in 2008 and various other arm issues continued to hamper his development from then on out.

The pic above of Elbert is via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2012.

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(pic via @MLB on twitter)

Joe Maddon is now the Cubs manager, so it's time to get over the fact that he's not coming to LA.  Besides, it was never going to happen... No matter how much folks screamed about it on social media. 

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Blog Kiosk: 10/7/2014 - Dodger Links - Time to Sink or Swim

It was a good game - It just didn't give us the results we wanted.

Hyun-Jin Ryu was great in his six innings of play.  He scattered five hits and made only one mistake.  Unfortunately, that mistake resulted in a third inning home run by newly minted Dodger killer Matt Carpenter.  Nevertheless, he kept us in it and gave us an opportunity to win.  Photo above of Ryu via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2014.  Go here to see more pic from him of last nights game.

Like in life, though, it takes two to tango.  The Dodgers offense took a nap against the Cardinals last night.  They strung together seven hits, but could only muster a single run.  Furthermore, they left five runners in scoring position in five separate innings. 

Or, it takes at least three to do a conga line dance.  The Dodger relief staff disappointed again, and if not for some remarkable lucky plays (like the one in the gif below) it would have been much worse.  Scott Elbert, in his second postseason appearance this year, struggled in St. Louis.  He had struck out two in his brief appearance in Game 1, but gave up a two-run home run to Kolten Wong that proved to be the game winner.  Oy Vie!

(gif via Dodgers on tumblr)

The Dodgers lost a tough one at 3-1, but have an opportunity to right the ship this afternoon.  Game 4 starts at 2:07 PM PST and I have a feeling much of Los Angeles will be on pins and needles most of the afternoon.  I know I will be.

BTW, I'm sure you're hearing plenty of complaints about the inconsistent strike zone by the home plate umpire Dale Scott.  And believe me, I hear ya.  I ain't that happy about it either... But, ya know what.  There's no use crying over spilt milk.  It's time to put our big boy pants on.

Now, below are some links to check out.

• Check out Don Mattingly's postgame interview here.
• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Kemp irked by strike zone in Dodgers' Game 3 loss."

"Terrible strike zone," Kemp said, knowing he likely will hear from the Commissioner's Office. "Never seen anything like it. It's disappointing. You've got guys battling, two good teams going at it and it's supposed to be about the teams, not about the umpire. He took the bats out of our hands."

• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Clayton Kershaw to start Game 4, Dan Haren part of nine-man bullpen in Game 3."
• Steve Sax spoke with Kevin Wheeler on 101ESPN in St. Louis to talk about the Dodger/Cardinals series.  Go here to hear it.
• What this guy says!  Via Gustavo Arellano at OC Weekly, "VIDEO: ¡Ask a Mexican! On Whether Saying "Los Doyers" is Racist!" 
• Here's the best tweet of last night, via former Dodger Pedro Guerrero.

I would break every bone in my body for the cardinals.  But I would die for the dodgers. @dodgers
— PedroGuerrero (@PedroGuerreroLA) October 7, 2014

• Panini release some more preview pics of their upcoming 2014 Hall of Fame 75th Anniversary Baseball set.  Go here to check those out.  The set officially comes out on tomorrow.  Below is a Don Sutton autographed card and a card of Brooklyn Dodger Burleigh Grimes.

• The LA Kings received their Stanley Cup rings last night in a private ceremony, and they are glorious.  Check out a tweet by Kings winger Trevor Lewis with it on.  Wow!  The LA Kings website shares more photos here.

pic.twitter.com/9Q8figMoWN
— trevor lewis (@trevorlewis22) October 7, 2014

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Welcome Back, Scott Elbert!

I had almost forgotten all about him.  Per a report via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, Scott Elbert will be rejoining the Dodgers in San Francisco tonight.  Per Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, Red Patterson has been DFA's in a corresponding move.  Per Weisman:

Since clearing waivers and accepting an assignment to the Isotopes in August, Elbert allowed seven runs, 14 hits and three walks in 7 1/3 innings while striking out six, but that was skewed when he gave up five runs while getting one out at Las Vegas on August 8. From August 14 to the end of the season, Elbert pitched 4 2/3 shutout innings with five strikeouts.

As you'll recall, Elbert was the Dodgers 1st round draft pick in 2004.  He had originally been drafted to be a starter, but like so many high-flying prospects the bullpen soon became his calling.  In 2011 he finally solidified himself as an integral part of the Dodger relief staff - as our lefty specialist.  That season he pitched in 47 games, allowing just 9 earned runs over 33.1 innings and saved two games.  He also struck 34, walked only 14 and left-handed batters hit only .191 against him.  The next season he pitched in 43 games but regressed a bit - left-handers batted .271 against him.

Unfortunately, arm problems that began with shoulder issues that caused him to miss most of the 2007 season continued to plagued him.  His 2012 season was filled with several trips to the DL and finally ended with surgery in mid-September.  Then, a setback resulted in another surgery several months later in January 2013.  By mid-year he looked ready to go again, but pain emerged in his elbow after pitching on consecutive days in rehab.  So on June 10, 2013 he had Tommy John Surgery.  Just over a year later Elbert returned to the mound and has been working on getting back into game shape. 

I don't know if we should expect much from him, but it'll be nice to have another experienced lefty arm in the bullpen.  Just as a reminder, Elbert throws a low 90's four-seam fastball and a high-80's slider.  He also uses his slider as his out pitch.  It'll be interesting to see if some of the zip he used to have is still there.

In celebration of Scott Elbert's return to the Dodgers I made the above fantasy card for him.  I used a photograph grabbed from Dodger photographer Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2012 and the 1971 Topps Baseball card design.

Below are his career statistics, via Baseball Reference:

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Blog Kiosk: 7/30/2014 - Dodger Links - Vin Scully is Coming Back for 2015 and is the FCC Cracking the Whip at TWC?

Blue Heaven reader Cathy was kind enough to pass along the above photo of Tommy Lasorda signing what looks like leather "sweet spot" style baseballs for an upcoming Baseball card set while in Cooperstown this past weekend.  

• Woo Hoo!  It was announced last night that Vin Scully is coming back to broadcast for the Dodgers in 2015.  Watch the official announcement made at Dodger Stadium last night here. As you might expect, the crowd gave Vin a rousing standing ovation.  Per a Dodgers press release:

(Gif via Dodger Dugout)

"It is very difficult to say goodbye," said Scully. "God willing I will be back next year. Over the years I have been blessed to have so many friends including those that sit in the stands and listen as well as those at home, who listen and watch. It is just too hard to say goodbye to all these friends. Naturally there will come a time, when I will have to say goodbye, but I've soul-searched and this is not the time."

Thank you Vin!

• Via David Lieberman at Deadline.com, "FCC Chairman Blames Time Warner Cable For Dodgers TV Impasse."  Read Chairman Tom Wheeler's entire letter there.

Wheeler specifically wants TWC to provide, within 10 days, an explanation of the arbitration process that it has proposed, how that could resolve the matter, and other steps the cable company can take to fix things if arbitration fails.  In addition, he wants FCC logounredacted copies of contracts or term sheets in SportsNet’s deal with TWC, and proposals to other pay TV distributors.

... 

Via Chairman Wheeler: "I am writing to express my strong concern about how your actions appear to have created the inability of consumers in the Los Angeles area to watch televised games of the Los Angeles Dodgers." 

The Chairman has requested a ton of information within 10 days.  A part of me feels that their (TWC's) lobbying effort has backfired.  Now, TWC is asked to provide a slew of information, and if they do that I may have to make a freedom of information act request.  I'll have to figure out that process since it's been years since I've done that.  On the other hand, TWC can just make all of that information public themselves, but I wouldn't hold my breath. 

• Don Mattingley on the trade deadline, via a tweet from Bill Shaikin of the LA Times:

Mattingly on #Dodgers at trade deadline: "I'm not expecting anything huge."
— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) July 29, 2014

• FYI, the Dodgers reinstated left-handed relief pitcher Scott Elbert from the 60-day disabled list and designated him for assignment.  Per a Dodger press release:

Elbert made 15 rehab appearances (two starts) for Dodger affiliates this year, going 0-1 with a 4.26 ERA for Rookie-advanced Ogden, Single-A Rancho Cucamonga and Triple-A Albuquerque as he worked his way back from 2013 Tommy John surgery. Elbert, who was originally selected by the Dodgers in the first round (17^th overall) of the 2004 First-Year Player Draft, last pitched in the Majors on Aug. 26, 2012 and went 3-3 with two saves and a 3.61 ERA in 120 games with the Dodgers from 2008-12.

• Via Ron Cervenka at Think Blue LA, "Kenley Jansen – MLB’s most underrated closer."
• Via Baseball in Korea, "Groundbreaking for Soyosan Park Chan-ho Baseball Park."

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Blog Kiosk: 6/30/2014 - Dodger Links - Elbert on the Mend, Draft Pick Updates and Goofing on Ryu

Kershaw pitched another gem yesterday, and now the Dodgers find themselves tied to first palce WooHoo!  Pic above features Clayton and Chris Perez celebrating the victory, via @MLB on twitter.

• ICYMI:  Justin Turner has been placed on the 15-day DL, and Carlos Triunfel has been called back from the minors.  Turner strained his left hamstringin saturday's game.
• Via Ken Gurnick and Michael Lananna at MLB.com, "Elbert enters final phase of rehab."

"I'm happy with Scotty's progress," Mattingly said. "We've talked about it a number of times -- it's been awhile now where everything's been pretty much positive. There hasn't been any negatives. He hasn't skipped a 'pen. He's been moving along."

• Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, the Dodger signed 8th round pick Hunter Redman.  He also reports that the Dodgers 12th round pick, Kam Uter, has also signed.  The Dodgers have until July 18 to sign their remaining 9 draft picks.  
• BTW, a couple of our newest draft picks recently made their professional debuts.  Via Brandon Lennox at True Blue LA, "Dodgers minor league report June 29: John Richy, A.J. Vanegas make professional debuts."
• Via Mike Bauman at MLB.com, "Dodgers firing on all cylinders."

"We've got the kind of pitching that keeps you in the game every day." Mattingly said. "If we can be solid on defense and take advantage of whatever we get offensively, we can be in pretty good shape.

"We've been solid [defensively]. Being in the right place, making the plays you're supposed to make, not hurting your team … getting the outs you're supposed to get.

"I'm happy with the energy the club is playing with. We're playing with a sense of urgency."

• Hanley did some celebrating on twitter after yesterday's game:

First place baby! Keep pressing on. I'll be ready soon to try and help my boys in blue #DodgerBlue #iSeeYou AttitudeisEverything
— Hanley Ramirez (@HanleyRamirez) June 29, 2014

• This Vine video made me laugh for hours... That scream!  BTW, they put ice down Ryu's back.

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Blog Kiosk: 6/17/2014 - Dodger Links - Billingsley, Kershaw on Bills and Grant Holmes Close to Signing

What an awesome photo of the California contingent to the 1985 National League All-Star Game roster, pic via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 1995.  Can you name them all?  Answer at the very bottom of post.  Of course, in the mix is Tony Gwynn.  RIP, Tony.

• BTW, several Kings (names not confirmed yet) will be heading to tonight's game at Dodger Stadium with the Stanley Cup in tow.  There will be a special pregame ceremony honoring the team and their 2nd Stanley Cup Championship.  BTW, the Kings will have another parade through 3 South Bay cities (Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach) on Wednesday.  Go here for information.
• Jared Massey at Dodgers Nation shares his recent interview with Dodger 2014 9th Round Draft Pick Matt Campbell.

JM: If you could, give us a scouting report on yourself
MC: I love throwing my fastball. No matter what the count, situation, etc. I love going to my fastball. I have a slider and a change up and I would say my change up is my favorite off speed pitch of the two.

• Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Scott Elbert to begin rehab assignment in Ogden."

The collective bargaining agreement allows for rehab assignments to last up to 30 days, and Elbert starting all the way down in rookie ball suggests that the Dodgers will be deliberate and methodical in his rehab.

• Billingsley elects surgery, via a tweet from JP Hoornstra.

Surgery will be next week to reattach flexor tendon. 3 months until he can throw.
— J.P. Hoornstra (@jphoornstra) June 16, 2014

• Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider shares a quote from Clayton Kershaw about Billinglsey.

“Bills is a good friend of mine, so I just feel bad for him,” said Clayton Kershaw, for six years a teammate of Billingsley. “I know how much he loves to complete and how much he wanted to pitch, and I can’t imagine going through that whole rehab process and finding out that news. You just try to put yourself in his shoes and be there for him the best you can, and realize it’s a pretty terrible situation.”

• Via Mark Saxon at ESPNLosAngeles.com, "Dodgers nearing deal with first-round pick."

The player, pitcher Grant Holmes, said he has an agreement in place pending a physical. The allotted slot amount for the No. 22 pick is $1.98 million. 

• In the photo at the very top of this post (from left to right) are: Mike Piazza, Tony Gwynn, Todd Worrell, Jose Offerman, Raul Mondesi, Barry Bonds and Hideo Nomo.

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Blog Kiosk: 2/11/2014 - Dodgers Links - Elbert, Beckett and Last Nights Town Hall

Brandon League took some time the other day to sign autographs for fans at Camelback Ranch, pic via @cactusleagueaz on twitter.

• Say hello to a new Dodgers fan blog I just ran into.  It's called 'Extra Innings with Lauren'.  Check it out here.   She shared some of her photos from the Dodgers FanFest, here.
• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Vin Scully, Stan Kasten star in ‘Tales from the Dodgers Town Hall’" The Dodgers held a town hall last night with a select group of season ticket holders.  Jon shares some audio from the event and some highlights.
• Via Craig Minami at True Blue LA, "Dodgers 2014 profile: Scott Elbert, rehab year?"
• Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Josh Beckett expects to be ready for regular season, whatever the role".

"I don't have numbness and tingling in my thumbs anymore," Beckett said. "I think my velocity is going to come back. I feel like I'm throwing as hard right now with less effort than I did all of last year."

• In fact, Beckett had his first Spring bullpen session yesterday, via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, and it was a success.  Gurnick also tells us that pitching prospect Zach Lee missed his bullpen session due to a lateral strain.  Oh, oh.  He also provides some background on Maholm's unique contract incentives.
• Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider provides an update on the Dodger Stadium renovations.
• Via Cardboard Connection we find out that Topps will be bringing back their Turkey Red product line as a online-exclusive.  Check out a preview image of a Yasiel Puig card on the right.  A release date is not yet established.
• Cards That Never Were made a fantasy 1965 Topps NL Stolen Base Leader card featuring Maury Wills since Topps failed to do so back then.  Check it out here.

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Blog Kiosk: 2/10/2014 - Dodgers Links - Spring Training is Here!

Spring Training has finally begun.  As you know, pitchers and catchers reported on Saturday.  Pic above features youngsters Onelki Garcia, Jose Dominguez, Pedro Baez, Carlos Frias and Yimi Garcia; via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2014.

• Carson Cistulli at FanGraphs shares his interview with Dodger Insider, Jon Weisman.
• Ken Gurnick at MLB.com has a whole bevy of reports worth reading.  Check out "Billingsley: 'I feel like I have a whole new arm'"

 "My arm hasn't felt this good in a few years. I feel like I have a whole new arm," Billingsley said on reporting day for Spring Training. "They keep telling me, don't throw 95 [mph] yet."

Then, read this: "Greinke weighs in on Kershaw's record deal"

"He's been so good, anything he gets you'd probably say he's worth. Maybe he got a little more than I thought, maybe a million a year more. The opt-out is big -- he'll only be 28 [actually 30]. That's the main reason you might say it will be better [for Kershaw]. I think it's pretty fair all the way around."

• Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Dodgers Australia trip looms large as spring camp opens"

"He said when you come back that's the hardest part, trying to get ready for the season. It's not an ideal situation, travel-wise. But you just have to make it work," Kershaw said. "I want to go there and see the country, go over there and see Sydney. I'd love to go there on vacation. I don't really want to go pitch there, but that's what we're signed up to do so we're going to have to get ready to do it."

• Eric Stephen also tells us that AJ Ellis has lost 15 lbs.

"It's good to trim up and try to take some stress off my lower body. I want to catch 120-125 games this year and I want to be physically ready to do that," Ellis said. "You can't do that if you're not in great shape and able to withstand the physical grind of the position."

• BTW, according to Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times on twitter, both Kershaw and Greinke are expected to be the starts for the Dodgers in Australia.

#Dodgers plan to start Kershaw and Greinke in Australia games.
— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) February 8, 2014

• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Appendectomy delays Elbert's elbow surgery rehab".
• Mark Langill at Dodger Insider tells us about a vintage Dodger Stadium give-away you wouldn't expect.
• Panini America is releasing a new Baseball card set, and it's something many of you old-tyme colelctors may remember.  In a couple of weeks they will release 2014's edition of Donruss.  Go here to see some preview pics.  Below are the Dodger cards.

• RJ at RBI Collecting shares his day at the Padres FanFest. David's Autograph Signings was there, too (Part 1, Part 2)

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Dodgers Notes from Spring Training: Pitchers & Catchers Workout #1

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.

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(pic via alannalynn17 on twitter)

LACE ‘EM UP: The Dodgers opened their sixth Spring Training at Camelback Ranch – Glendale today with 32 pitchers (seven non-roster) and seven catchers (four non-roster) working out for the first time. The club will open their Spring Training schedule on Wednesday, February 26 against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Talking Stick, with their first home game the following day, also against the D-backs in Glendale. The Dodgers will play a total of 11 games at Camelback Ranch this year on three Spring Training weekends.

(pic via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2014)

BATTERY POWERED: Pitching has traditionally been a strength of the Dodger organization and last season was no different as the Dodgers ranked second in the Majors with a 3.25 team ERA and established a franchise record with 1,292 strikeouts. Today, half of the Dodgers’ 2014 pitching staff threw their first official bullpens of the spring, including the National League’s reigning Cy Young Award winner, Clayton Kershaw, along with new acquisitions and former All-Stars Dan Haren and Chris Perez. In addition, Hyun-Jin Ryu, Brian Wilson, J.P. Howell, Javy Guerra, Seth Rosin, Jose Dominguez and Matt Magill and non-roster invitees Ross Stripling, Chris Reed, Daniel Moskos, Sam Demel tossed their first ‘pens of the new season this morning.

• Haren, a three-time All-Star (2007-09), joins the Dodgers after going 10-14 with a 4.67 ERA in 31 games (30 starts) for Washington last year. The 11-year MLB veteran was one of the game’s top pitchers from July 27 through the conclusion of the 2013 season, sporting a 6-3 record with a 3.14 ERA (25 ER/71.2 IP) and holding opponents to a .224 batting average, which was the sixth-best mark in the NL during that span (min. 70.0 IP).

• Perez, an American League All-Star in 2011 and 2012, joins the Dodgers after spending the last five seasons with the Indians. Last year, the 28-year-old went 5-3 and saved 25 games in 30 chances (11th, AL) for Cleveland. His season ERA of 4.33 was inflated by four outings in which he gave up 15 runs in 2.1 innings and without those contests, Perez would have posted a 1.92 ERA in 50 games (51.2 innings). 

AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE: This year, an early report date means an early exit from Arizona as the Dodgers will depart the Valley of the Sun on March 16 for Sydney, Australia. Once Down Under, Los Angeles will battle the D-backs on March 22-23 in Major League Baseball’s Opening Series, which will mark MLB’s first regular season games ever to be staged in Australia. The Dodgers will return stateside and play three exhibitions against the Angels in the Freeway Series before opening the “North American” portion of their schedule on March 30 at San Diego on ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball.

ON THE DOTTED LINE: Yesterday, the Dodgers boosted their starting rotation depth with the signing of left-handed pitcher Paul Maholm to a one-year contract. Maholm (pronounced, muh-HAHL-uhm) was at the club’s facility for a physical yesterday and donned Dodger blue for the first time today at the team’s workout. The 31-year-old spent the 2013 season with the Braves, going 10-11 with a 4.41 ERA in 26 starts as he reached double-digit victories for the second consecutive season. During the course of his career, the nine-year MLB veteran has been especially tough against left-handed hitters, limiting them to a .225/.287/.318 slashline.

• In a corresponding move, the Dodgers placed left-hander Scott Elbert on the 60-day disabled list.

NEW FACES: This year, the Dodgers will have a few new faces on the medical side as the club welcomes Steve Smith and Brian Stoneberg to the Major League staff. In his third year in the organization, Stoneberg will join Brandon McDaniel as a Major League strength and conditioning coach after serving as the club’s minor league strength and conditioning coordinator in 2012-13. Smith will also enter his third season with the organization and will join the big league staff as the physical therapist after serving as the club’s medical/rehabilitation coordinator for the 2012 and 2013 seasons.

• Yesterday, the Dodgers medical staff welcomed its newest member as Brandon McDaniel and his wife, Andrea, celebrated the birth of their first child, Caleb. Congratulations to the McDaniel Family!

(pic via @SportsNetLA on twitter)

ALL DODGERS, ALL THE TIME: Also among the new faces at Camelback Ranch are Marina Mackrow and Dave Strumpf from SportsNet LA, the Dodgers’ new 24/7 television home, who are gathering content for a new behind-the-scenes show on the network, Dodgers: Backstage. SportsNet LA, which launches on February 25, will televise all of this year’s Dodger Cactus League games, with the exception of two split-squad games, giving fans more Spring Training coverage than ever before. In addition to airing games during Spring Training, SportsNet LA will also air a nightly show, “Access SportsNet: Dodgers,” at 7:00 p.m. PT.

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Blog Kiosk: 12/2/2013 - Dodgers Links - Scully, Sax and the Dodgers Top 10

Steve Sax spent some time with Dodger fans as a part of their 2013 Blue Friday Mall Tour.  Check out the pic above of him spending some time with Tommy.  Pic via Sax's twitter.

• Tom Hoffarth at the LA Daily News writes, "Vin Scully turns 86 and gives thanks for a dream come true".  It includes a short interview with Scully.  BTW, he'll be the Tournament of Roses Parade's Grand Marshall.

Q: So what are the official duties, other than to be in Pasadena in the middle of the night, find the right car and make sure you have a cup of warm chocolate?
A: Really, the only job qualifications are that you have to be alive and be able to wave. So far, so good.

• Via Daniel Tedford at LA Daily News, "The best 11 tweets wishing Vin Scully a happy birthday".
• Ron Cervenka at Think Blue LA writes, "Scott Elbert’s Last Stand".  Elbert has battled numerous injuries the past several years, and will likely find this upcoming season the most import of his career.
• Steven Choi at Arirang News tells us that Hyun-Jin Ryu won a special award from Don-A Sports.  (Hat Tip: MyKBO on twitter)
• Harold Uhlman at Think Blue LA tells us about "The Mysterious Crosschecker".
• Roberto is back.  Check out his recent post at Vin Scully is My Homeboy.  He was at Dodger Stadium on Sunday for the holiday sale and a free autograph from Maury Wills.
• Ben Badler at Baseball America shares his list of Top 10 Dodger prospects. 

1. Joc Pederson, of
2. Corey Seager, ss
3. Julio Urias, lhp
4. Zach Lee, rhp
5. Chris Anderson, rhp
6. Chris Withrow, rhp
7. Alexander Guerrero, 2b
8. Chris Reed, lhp
9. Onelki Garcia, lhp
10. Ross Stripling, rhp

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Blog Kiosk: 11/30/2013 - Dodgers Links - Sax into Sacramento HOF, Cuba and a Hanley Extension?

Steve Garvey, along with Steve Sax, was at the Westfield Topanga Mall yesterday afternoon.  Pic above via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2013, and go here to see more photos.  The mall tour continues at the West Covina Mall this afternoon with Steve Garvey and Steve Yeager signing autographs for fans.  Go here for information.

• Via Dionisio Soldevila at ESPNDeportes.com, "Hanley Negotiates Extension with LA".  It's in Spanish.  Below is a poor translation of a quote:

"We are negotiating something, but we go step by step. I have 1 year left, and I want to remain in LA for the rest of my career because they have treated me very well," said Ramírez on having taken part in a celebration of the Classic World cup of Baseball in the National Palace.

• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Dodgers sign Elbert, Baxter, Butera to deals: Pacts for 2014 come ahead of Monday's deadline to tender contracts".
• Steve Sax to be inducted into the 2014 Class of the Sacramento Sports Hall of Fame.  Go here for information.  The ceremony will be in January.  He will also be inducted with former Dodger Leron Lee; who currently holds the Japanese record for highest lifetime batting average (4,000 min. at-bats).
• ICYMI.  Listen to this past Wednesday's Dodger Talk with Kevin Kennedy and David Vassegh.  Dan Haren is a special guest.
• Mark Saxon at ESPN writes, "Is the Dodgers starting rotation settled?"

"If something else comes our way, we'll take a look at it. I'm not going to close the door on any more starters," Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti said during the conference call to announce Haren's deal.

• Via Ron Cervenka  at Think Blue LA, "Could baseball bring an end to Cuba Trade Embargo?"

All of this being said, it was reported on Thursday in an article posted on the National Public Radio (NPR) website that Cuban authorities have lifted a 50-year ban on players signing professional contracts abroad. It does not, however, include the MLB.

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Blog Kiosk: 6/6/2013 - Dodgers' Links - Dodgers Sign Young Player, the Dodgers Arborist & an Interview with Mike Brito

This is the best news I've heard all year.  The Dodgers made a surprise signing yesterday.  They signed a young hurler by the name of Michael Douglas to a one-day contract as a part of the Make A Wish Foundation. Pic above via the Dodgers tumblr.

(pic link: twitter @Dodgers)

• Topps knows what's up!  Via their twitter.

(twitter link)

• Howard Cole at LA Weekly introduces us to the Dodgers official arborist.

Always the pioneering organization, perhaps it's no surprise that the Dodgers, who famously gave the world Jackie Robinson, and who currently employ baseball's first female head athletic trainer in Sue Falsone, should be the one and only Major League Baseball club to employ a full-time arborist. Or even a part-time arborist. Perea, who's been with the team since 2009, is closing in on his Bachelor of Science degree in Turf Science from Penn State University Online, has Associate of Science degrees in Pest Management and Ornamental Horticulture from Mt. San Antonio College, and manages a full-time staff or four.

• Congratulations, Paul LoDuca.  He is working his way towards a career in a Baseball broadcast booth.  He'll be broadcasting more collegiate World Series Baseball.

(twitter link)

• I hate having to link to any McCourt related news, but this is interesting since we'll likely get a look at the financial arrangement between the Guggenheim Group and McCourt.  Via Bill Shaikin at the LA Times, "Judge orders Dodgers to release details of deal with Frank McCourt".
• Ron Cervenka at Think Blue LA interviews the man who discovered Puig, Mike Brito.
• "Scott Elbert injury: Dodgers LHP needs Tommy John surgery," via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA.
• Panini just released some preview pics of their upcoming 2013 Golden Age Baseball set.  Check out the autographed cards of former Dodgers Ron cey and Tommy Davis below.  This set comes out on June 26th.  Check out more pics here; including autographed cards from cast members of Happy Days and the Brady Bunch.

• Bob Lemke recounts an old story featuring Satchel Paige that may have some relation to Bill Veeck's gimmick of sending up Eddie Gaedel to bat.
• The Baseball Draft starts today.  Ken Gurnick at MLB.com has a nice report on the Dodgers plans.

"We definitely dipped into that," said White. "I feel better about our current depth than one might suspect, but I always try to get pitching and that's not going to change. We'll still try to get the highest-ceiling guy."

• Orel at Sons of Steve Garvey provides a transcript of Vin Scully telling us who Al Campanis thought was the best player he ever saw.  Although I'm way too young to have ever seen this player, based on stories I've read and analysis from folks I trust, I can't disagree with Campanis.  There's a reason they called him, "El Maestro".

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Blog Kiosk: 6/4/2013 - Dodgers' Links - Puig's Big Day

Congratulations, Stephen Fife, on your very first Major League win.  May there be many more.  Pic via twitter @DodgersPR.

• Via Chosun Ilbo, "Dodgers' Ryu Gives Sales of Baseball Merchandise a Boost".
• Scott Elbert's rehab assignment has not gone well.  Via a tweet from Eric Stephen of True Blue LA.

(twitter link)

Eric followed the above up another tweet indicating that Elbert has an appointment with Dr. Neal ElAttrache tomorrow.  Tommy John surgery looms?  Here's Eric's story at True Blue LA.

• The Jackie Robinson game-used glove auctioned by Steiner Sports just sold at $373,00.00, via Mark Newman at MLB.com.
• Yasiel Puig's 1st Dodger game was definitely memorable.  In addition to recording his first two Major League hits, he nailed a runner on 1st base to end the game.  Wow!  Via Bill Plunkett, let's not forget that Puig isn't the only person responsible for that last out. 

(pic credit: pelon2327)

Yasiel Puig's laser from the RF wall was eye-popping but #Dodgers 1B Adrian Gonzalez said real heroes on the play were middle infielders Luis Cruz and Nick Punto.  Padres baserunner Chris Denorfia was running on the pitch and slid into second base when Cruz and Punto pantomimed a double-play grounder. Denorfia had to scramble to his feet and was called out on a very close play at first base.

“It was an incredible throw. ... But the biggest part of that play is faking him out,” Gonzalez said. “If they don’t do that, he’s standing up at first base.  It was a big throw. It had to be on target which it was. As soon as he let go of it I knew we had a shot because I took a peek and saw where Denorfia was.” 

• If you haven't seen the play, below is the catch and throw to end last nights game.

Video Link:

• Below is a video of Puig's first two Major League hits.

Video Link:

• BTW, if you're interested in picking up a unused ticket from the game to commemorate Puig's first game, check out this eBay auction.
• If you want to check out a bunch of pics from yesterdays game then there is no better place than Jon SooHoo's Photog Blog.

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