I've Got a Vin Scully Sweatband

This year has seen Dodger and Baseball fans alike celebrating the career and retirement of Vin Scully.  Along with all the deserved accolades and pronouncements has been a flurry of memorabilia for an eager collecting public.  We've seen everything from bobbleheads, pins and t-shirts.  Heck, there's even a placard available that could only be attained during a game against the Giants in San Francisco.  So, even our teams worst enemy saw it fit to honor our poet laureate.

Among all of the items I've run across the above sweatband, that was worn by many of the Dodger players during that last home game against the Rockies, has been the most elusive.

Don't remember it?

Blog Kiosk: 12/29/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Here's an fantastic photograph of Dodger legend Jackie Robinson with the 1950 NL Rookie of the Year, Sam Jethroe, of the Boston Braves.  Pic above via Vintage Baseball on twitter.

Below are more links to check out:

• Happy Birthday, Hank DeBerry & Devon White!

Blog Kiosk: 12/28/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Joc Pederson and Corey Seager are not in Hawaii this week to just relax and take in the sights.  They are there to host a youth Baseball camp and home run derby in benefit of the Kemoeatu Brothers Foundation.  Festivities take place today and tomorrow.  Per Taryn Hatcher at Hawaii News Now:

"I remember going to camps when I was young and looking up to the people that were there," said reigning National League Rookie of the Year, Seager. "So, it's kind of nice to be in that role and guide these kids and have fun with it at the same time."

"You know, it means a lot to be able to give back and be in the position Corey and I are in," added Pederson. "So, to come here and help the kids and see a smile on their face is priceless and it's all going to a great cause."

Photo above via Joc Pederson on his twitter.  Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1982 the Dodgers traded for reliever Pat Zachry in exchange for utilityman Jorge Orta.
• Happy Birthday, Don Thompson & Austin Barnes!

2016 Leaf Metal Draft - All the Dodgers Cards

Last week Leaf released their prospect based, all autograph card brand named 2016 Leaf Metal Draft, and it includes four fast rising youngsters vying to make an impression with the Dodgers front office.  They include 2016 first round pick (20th overall) Gavin Lux, 2016 first round pick (32nd overall) Will Smith, 2016 first round pick (36th overall) Jordan Sheffield, and 2014 second round pick Alex Verdugo.   Go here for a complete checklist, and see their cards below.

Base Autographs

#BA-AV2 Alex Verdugo                            #BA-GL1 Gavin Lux

#BA-JS1 Jordan Sheffield                          #BA-WS1 Will Smith

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Blog Kiosk: 12/27/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Check out this magnificent vintage UPI press photo, from 7/29/1956, that features a diving Cub, Don Hoak, getting past both Gil Hodges and Sandy Koufax.  (eBay Auction Link)  Per the descriptor on the reverse:

Outfielder Don Hoak dives towards home to score a run in the third inning of todays game at Ebbets Field.  Hoak avoided the tag of Dodger first baseman Gil Hodges who is on the ground and beat the throw to Sandy Koufax who is covering the plate.  The Cubs Monte Irvin (39) watches the play.  The Cubs won the second 4-2 after the Dodgers won the Opener 1-0.

Below are more links to check out:

• This day in Dodger History:  In 1981 Fernando Valenzuela became the fifth Dodger to become Southern California Athlete of the Year honors.  Valenzuela had a banner seasong -- earning the Cy Young, Rookie of the Year honors and a World Series ring.
• Happy Birthday, Ernie Krueger, Norm Larker, Jim Leyritz & Jason Repko!

Blog Kiosk: 12/23/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Dashing and Debonair.

Featured here is an original 120mm photo transparency of an photogenic Sandy Koufax in a photoshoot taken in the 60's. (eBay Auction Link)  I believe it was taken by LA theatrical photographer Jay Thompson.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1953 second baseman Jim Gilliam was named Rookie of the Year.  In 1958 the Dodgers received infielder and future Hall of Fame manager Sparky Anderson from the Phillies for Jim Golden, Rip Pepulski and Gene Snyder.  In 2004 the Dodgers signed free agent outfielder JD Drew to a five year/$55 million contract; which included an opt-out clause after his second season.  As you know, JD did exercise the opt-out.
• Happy Birthday, Bunny Fabrique, Doc Gessler, Danny Taylor, Tim Leary, Cody Ross & Hanley Ramirez!