Game 4, Baby!

Tonight is Game 4 in Los Angeles and I expect it to be as loud and as rowdy as it was a couple of days ago.  The Kings lead in the series 2 games to 1, so this game will be a long hard fought battle.  Expect some strong checking by Vancouver who have tried to take it to the body against Los Angeles all series long.  Unfortunately for them, the Kings have answered back. 

I think the key to the game will be the play of the Kings first line.  So far, they haven't been as dominating as I would have hoped.  With a majority of the Kings goals coming on the power play so far it is a little disconcerting that their 5on5 play hasn't really produced yet.  Of course, if the Canucks do us a solid by committing more penalties as the Kings continue to capitalize, then it probably won't matter.   

If you happen to be going tonight feel free to swing on by.  I sit in section 315 in the area where a bunch of immature guys pretend to be human trumpets.  Yes, we can get a little loud and obnoxious.

Here are the game highlights from Monday's game that the Kings won 5 to 3.

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Card of the Week: Watching Nomo

I just love this card. The photograph is perfect, and the subject matter is even better. Hideo Nomo was a heck of a pitcher. With his unique whirlwind windup, he baffled and confused opposing hitters. He was so good he even recorded a no-hitter at Coor's Field when it was a hitters paradise. This "Card of the Week" is a 1996 Upper Deck V.J. Lovero insert card.

eBay: 1952 Dodger Team Pin

Here is a very scarce 1952 Brooklyn Dodger team portrait pin found on eBay.  It measures 3.5" in diameter.  The auction doesn't show a pic of the reverse, but, keep in mind, if you are in the market for a vintage pin like this always look for a union mark/ stamp on the backside.  As a testament to its rarity it currently has one bid at a starting price of $400.00. 

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Vote Now!

It is that time of year again.  As the devoted Dodger fan, that I know you are, it is your duty to go online now and vote for your favorite Dodgers on the 2010 All-Star Game ballot. Do it, just do it!

Also, keep in mind you can vote up to 25 times per email address, so don't worry about stuffing the ballots.  It's actually encouraged. 

In case your wondering about our worthy candidates consider the entire outfield of Andre Ethier, Matt Kemp and Manny Ramirez.  Also, the unbearded one, Casey Blake, Loney and Martin should be on your ballot.  Heck, include Rafael Furcal and Blake DeWitt, as well.

Of course, I don't want to tell how to vote, but keep this in mind.  The great Dodger in the sky only allows Dodgers into heaven, and if that isn't a resounding endorsement then I don't know what is!

eBay: Pulling a Bird from his Hat

You gotta love Casey Stengel.  That lovable old man could please any crowd.  In fact, as can be attested by this vintage UPI press photo found on eBay he does just that.  Acting as a manager during a 1971 Brooklyn Dodgers- Los Angeles Dodgers Old-Timers Game he pulls out an old trick. 

In 1919 Stengel of the Pittsburgh Pirates was being taunted mercilessly by fans of the Brooklyn Dodgers, his old team. Somehow Casey got hold of a sparrow and used it to turn the crowd in his favor. With the bird tucked gently beneath his cap, Casey strutted to the plate amidst a chorus of boos and catcalls. He turned to the crowd, tipped his hat and out flew the sparrow. The jeers turned to cheers, and Casey became an instant favorite.

On this June 6th afternoon he reenacts the trick by pulling out a pigeon from under his cap.

eBay Auction Link:

What a Game! Kings Take Series Lead

Tonight was the most excited I've ever been for a hockey game.  It was crazy tonight.  The crowd was large, loud and raucous.  A buzz was in the air.  We knew we were going to win this game, and it was obvious before the drop of the first puck that nothing would stop this train.

That's how confident we all felt.  We just knew. 

Thankfully, the Kings obliged us. They were perfect on the power play, scoring 3 goals on 3 power play attempts.  They were battling along the boards like wild animals fighting for a meal.  They cleared pucks away from the slot when Vancouver went on the offensive.  Drew Doughty and Jack Jackson were masterful on the blue line.  Everything was coming to together, and in the end they won 5 to 3.

WooHoo!  Kings win!

Before you entered Staples Center fans were greeted by some remodeled statues.  Awesome, just awesome.