Merry Christmas!

Still more Christmas wishes out there, like another left reliever and maybe a bat in Left Field. Other people have suggested Marcus Thames because of his ability to hit Lefties. However, his fielding % is horrendous. I am not sure if the Dodgers are more content to stay put and do nothing and wait for a disgruntled Ryan Braun of the Brewers (after they start losing) or Prince Fielder to be traded for prospects and James Loney.

5 wishes for Next Season:

1. Hearing Dodgers win more than 90 times or as many as it takes to recapture the crown from the Jints.

2. Seeing all 5/6 of our starters begin and finish the year healthy.

3. See Clayton Kershaw get run support and make a run at 18 wins.

4. Get a LF bat. Please Dodgers pull the trigger if the combination of Blake, (insert name), and Gibbons doesn't work.

5. A healthy Ethier and a happy Kemper!

Merry Christmas Dodger Fans!!!

Dodgers Roster All Set

Ok so Dodgers fans, why wheep over the McCourt verdict? It's going to be in the courts for awhile and I don't forsee a resolution anytime soon. As for what the Dodgers are doing, they are making moves.

Now that Vicente Padilla-el asesino and Tony Gwynn Jr. have been signed, there are now 39 total players on the roster.

Who is going to be that 1 player? I am banking on some Rule 5 magic. There are a ton of players available and for cheap amounts of money.

As far as the moves made, do I like the big signing of Uribe?

Yes, as long as they can get at least 2 good years from him. Even 18HR will add power to the position.

Barajas signing? Good and bad, but he loves LA so he should do well.

Is AJ Ellis the future? His ability to throw out runners is very low, so we'll see.

Lilly? An awesome signing.

Garland? He has 131 career wins...why not and plus he eats innings.

We do have so more work to do, but the roster is set. Gwynn will add speed to left field. That should help considering Gibbons is not the best fielder.

Peace, I'm Out Go Blue!

Free Agency and Falling Back

While I am sitting here waiting for the Huskers-My favorite college football team to start their game, I have to talk about the Dodgers.

First of all, the Dodgers not being in the post season this year had a lasting effect on me, but I am now over the disappointment and in Spring Training/Offseason mode.

I believe the Dodgers will have a much better season and will get better in all areas.

I expect the Dodgers to make a healthy run at free agents that will be starting pitchers and relievers. The bat? Where's the bat? Why not go after Pat Burrell? Why not go after Derek Jeter? Who knows?

Carl Crawford is not going to be a Dodger. I suspect an Angel.

Cliff Lee? No. He'll be a Yankee in a matter of days.

That leaves possibilities of landing my favorite pitcher...Jorge De La Rosa and bringing him in would be huge. He features an ability to bring some considerable innings 185 IP in 2009 and 121 IP in 2010 (less due to injury). ERA below 3 against all NL West Opponents.


Where will the Bat come from?

David Ortiz off the bench. Yes, with runners on, Ortiz can come in a la Olmedo Saenz.

Seriously I miss Olmedo, but maybe we could see other guys take that role.

There is not much depth to the FA's available, but I like Adrian Beltre.

You need his bat in our lineup. I would expect the Dodgers to push hard for a hitting 3B as they begin to get younger at the position. There are no good 3B options in the farm system right now.

So, where will you be at midnight? I will be right here, on my Twitter, Email, and reading anything and everything about the Dodgers and Free Agency!

Dodgers Moves

Each week, on this blog, I plan on highlighting any
moves the Dodgers make. Hopefully, looking at the competition, one would think they would getting to an arms race and target another pitcher.

Does Raffy Furcal have a future in LA?

Do the Royals want Matt Kemp for Greinke?

Is there a chance Russell Martin gets non-tendered?

Will the Dodgers sign Kershaw longterm?

Little World Series Update

I am incensed at the inconsistent strike zone during this World Series. Yes I want the Giants to lose, but it seems like the zone has been tight to wide depending on the hitters.

I have only limited proof, but Madison Bumgarner was getting Tom Glavine type outside strikes. It was like the umpire gave him everything a foot outside and everything 6 inches inside. That's why he dominated.

The Giants have had their fair share of K's looking and check swinging. The Fox Trac should be banned. It's really a poor way of making the Umps look bad.

The Texas Rangers are playing like Strangers and they can't seem to get ahead in the count. Nothing seems to be going right. They seem timid and off balance. However, tomorrow night I expect this to be a slugfest with both teams hitting the ball and being very aggressive at the plate and on the base paths.

Should the Giants play game 5 as a game 7, they'll win. If they come in overconfident, they'll lose.

My prediction is it will go back to AT&T Park. Rangers win 6-2.

Can the Giants win and can the Rangers get fired up and make it a 3-2 series? Who knows.

Lilly's bloom in April

Hello Dodger Fans,

A start to the off season has just begun with a nice warning shot to the rest of the NL West. Ted Lilly has a greed to terms on a nice deal with the Dodgers. With a 7-4 starting record after the trade from the Cubs, the Dodgers look to fortify their starting rotation of Bills and Kershaw. I am optimistic that Lilly will be a nice option for the 3rd, 4th or 5th spot. No way, the Dodgers get Cliff Lee, but if Frank McCourt gets his wish and takes the team over and gets a new TV deal, then the Dodgers have a chance of getting a left fielder and maybe another starter.

Obviously, there is a lot of work to be done, but matching up and playing better baseball will be key in beating the Giants and Rockies next year. Notice I didn't mention the Padres who are being dismantled as we speak!

Farewell Joe Torre and Go Dodgers in 2011

Yesterday was an incredible day of a number of different sporting events taking place at the same time. I had a main rotation of afternoon NFL games and Dodger baseball coupled with a longing for the Padres to accomplish the unthinkable...to tie the Giants and make history with 2 possible playoff games for the division and wild card. However, watching the Dodgers start hitting and seeing their bullpen hold Arizona in the 7th and 8th inning, I noticed that fight that has not been there since the All Star break and you saw guys get after it on the last day of the season. You saw them play to win and to win for Joe Torre.

To me, Joe Torre was more than the Bigelow tea commercials and the name linked to the Yankees. He was the Dodgers for three seasons and he wore the Dodger Blue well. He put a name and a face to the Dodgers in the East Coast and on ESPN. However, Joe was really, Phil Jackson without the players. Let's face it, if there were other circumstances and the Dodgers had more of those "it" guys on the roster, the season could have a different outcome. If we had chosen to just pay Randy Wolf, we wouldn't have to try and sign Ted Lilly, which will be impossible.


Joe Torre really tried to make us winners for the 3rd year in a row. It didn't happen, because there was no chemistry in the clubhouse and guys just didn't seem to trust their stuff like John Broxton and Matt Kemp. Despite all of the home runs for Kemp, it doesn't if you strike out as many times as he did.

The biggest disappointment was Ethier after a monstrous start and his injury he was never the same.

I'd like to believe that next year, with Don Mattingly at the helm, there is a guy that knows about playing baseball and coaching baseball players. I think that there is a reason for optimism. However, we've got holes in the pitching staff and not a lot of prospects to fill out our infield, so I remain hopeful as I always am that the Dodgers get a good pitcher and power hitter this year.

Go Dodgers! Go anyone in the playoffs not the Giants!

Final Post of the 2010 Season

With 16 games to go and a 10-2 route of the Boys in Blue, the Dodgers season is now in the balance of having to win all 16 and get help. Looking at the game and being at the game, it was over pretty early when Ted Lilly threw hanging curves to the Giants most dangerous part of the lineup.

Here's what I don't get, I get resting guys and I understand that Ethier's BA is below the Mendoza line versus Sanchez...but why last night??? Why not give the Dodgers one more shot at playing spoiler? Do it for the fans Joe! Do it for your Rookies and call-ups so they understand the magnitude of this rivalry!

No more...

Proper thanks to Vin Scully and all of the workers at Dodger Stadium for making Dodger baseball the greatest thing on earth! Many thanks to Charlie & Rick and Eric and Steve for covering Road games with great detail and humor!

Great feats this season have been the emergence of Clayton Kershaw as an ace and the comeback of Chad B!

My hunch is that Tim Wallach will be our new Manager next year, but there could a new candidate?

LaRussa anyone???

Phillies...So we meet again (Revenge)

Out of the middle of nowhere, the Dodgers are going to find a way to sweep the Phillies. Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, the Beard, and James Loney will each drive up their RBI totals as the hamsters: Scott Podsednik and Ryan Theriot with Jamey Carroll running the bases. I know this sounds ridiculous, but the Dodgers have to give it a shot. Sure they got burned in Colorado, but Colorado is on fire.

A worthy goal is giving it a shot so that the Giants are caught like they never saw it coming and maybe just maybe the WC will be possible. This team sans Manny has everything it needs to compete. They just need a little magic!

Go Dodgers!

Base running, Wild Pitches, and Squeeze Plays

Yes, the Dodgers were almost winners tonight as a result of a number of blunders tonight. From the missed squeeze in the 4th from AJ Ellis to the 3 WPs by Octavio Dotel, and the verbal Stop by Boa sending /not sending Reed Johnson to tie the game. I've seen everything this year. I can sit here and blame Matt Kemp for not being a smart hitter or Boa sending the runner, but I blame the entire team to the team manager.

Meanwhile in San Bernadino, Manny got 3 hits and a strikeout. A 3-4 night means a call up for Jay Gibbons or a trade to a pennant race eligible team. I think that if the Giants came calling, Ned would just let him go. The Dodgers are on the hook for the deferred part of the contract.

Lastly, in my opinion, just when it looks like things are getting better. Everything gets dressed up as a win of an 8 inning game, but in MLB you play ten.

Again, everyone is to blame from the front office to the hot dog vendor. We stink!

Dodgers Slumping, but the Pen is Mightier than the Sword

Dodger fans, we can gripe until the cows come home that the bullpen combination that Torre has worked out is simply just as bad as using Jonathon Broxton...or can we look at the Dodgers failing to produce at the plate as the reasons for giving both Philly and the Braves improbable wins?

The Bullpen has been a sore spot for the Dodgers all season long. As a fan, I have no more confidence in the bullpen even with a 5-run lead! I mean, this is getting more than ridiculous. I know that we are still in the latter part of August, but with about 35 games to go and having to make up a 7 game lead on the WC, anything is possible. The Bullpen has been inconsistent and the hitting has been like hitting a piñata while blind folded.

However, and this is about as big news as when the Dodgers signed Clayton Kershaw, the Dodgers made a step in the right direction last night, with the improbable signing of Zach Lee. Now I am not saying that Zach Lee is ready right now, he's still raw, but at 18 he features a good fastball (95 mph), curve, and changeup. It's an awesome thing to see him in a Dodger uniform and he has a chance of making the big club in a few years. However, if he tears it up next year, Ned will be tempted to give him a shot at Spring training and perhaps AFL. I see big things with the rotation of the future and if the Dodgers can continue developing pitchers into future stars, then I see big things for the Dodgers!

Deja Vu and Murphy's Law in Philly

Last year during the NLCS game 4, I witnessed the squandering of a three run lead and after a masterful 6 innings of work by Randy Wolf. Dodgers hopes of notting the series were ended when Jimmy Rollins drove home the tying and winning runs.

Tonight was no different as I could feel it in my racing pulse. Big Jon Broxton entered the game to loud chants of Beat LA and he could not throw a fastball in the strike zone. He hit Placido Polanco who was not a threat and put him on. He walked Jason Werth and then he got Ben Francisco to ground out, no, no, Casey Blake nonchalantly, fielded (Bill Bucknered) the ball into left field with Carlos Ruiz on deck. Carlos Ruiz is the Dodger killer and looks like an assassin at the plate. With a favorable count he drove the ball to left center over a watching Matt Kemp.

At this point, the game was not over, but even a quicker relay wouldn't have gotten out Ben Frickin Francisco. Yikes! Ballgame! TV Off! Saw this same thing last year. One of the key differences was that Manny was in the shower last year.

Long August has now gotten worse. Bring on football!

Dodgers Rise to the Occasion

In what proved to be a game of grit and guts, the Dodgers lower part of the order was responsible for winning this series offensively. After a shaky inning by Ted Lilly, the Dodgers overcame a misplay by Ryan Theriot to jump out to a 4-0 lead. The Dodgers managed to keep the Nats silent for much of the game with the exception of a couple solo shots. Dodgers won 8-3 with masterful pitching by Ted Lilly and a bullpen that continues to gain strength.

Where does this put the Dodgers? 5 games back in the WC and still 7 back for the division. With 30 to play in the NL west, the Dodgers have a chance.

Now is a good time for the Dodgers to gather around and enjoy some good Italian food in Philadelphia and hit the crap out of the ball. The Dodgers head to Philly fired up and in it to win it! Giants are starting their nosedive into the mediocre counterparts they have proven to be. Sure they have pitching, but their timely hitting has suddenly disappeared.

Dodgers Go for the Series

Now that I have access to all the MLB games, I am noticing that a lot of other teams have explosive young players. The Blue Jays, who have stocked their minor leagues with exciting young talent and drafted well are a fun team to watch. JP Arencibia was explosive. Brandon Morrow-from Seattle was pitching well today.

I am impressed by the pitching and defense by the Atlanta Braves. They went for it right after the All Star break by trading Yunel Escobar for Alex Gonzalez. Great move offensively and defensively. Both teams have benefitted.

Tampa Bay is always exciting.

Even Houston as of late is playing better after playing the trade game and hiring Jeff Bagwell to coach hitters.

The Dodgers regime now seems old and tired. It seems like coaches are just sitting there and just collecting a check. I am seeing better pitching, but more lazy defense, a lot of impatience at the plate and poorly called games from behind the plate.

Today's move to DFA was a step in a direction, but I am not sure if Jay Gibbons can hit better or worse. The Dodgers have won 3 games this week. The Dodgers are 6 out of the WC and now have a tough task today v. The fighting Nats and a monumental task v. The Phillies and Braves. Ask the Giants about the Braves.

Padilla El Jefe

For all of the English speakers: Vicente Padilla pitched an incredible game. 8 strikeouts and gave up 2 hits. Padilla almost kept the no hitter if it were not for a James Loney boot into right field. The Dodgers improved on the RISP with some 2 out scoring and excellent base running! Now we are on a winning streak and the effort and attitude is starting to turn for the better. The clubhouse is more lively and the fight is seen in the eyes of the players.

Big contributions from:

Theriot: took away 2 base hits. Huge double in the bottom of the 8th.

Ronnie Belliard: Big RBI double! Huge! Need to see more of that!

Scott Posednik. Stealing and driving in two runs with a huge bloop fly ball. It looked like I chip shot in golf before it landed between struggling Chris Denorfia (in the field) and Will Venable. For all the crap I gave Pod earlier, he is definitely coming through.

On a sad note, we learned that Russ Martin is out 15 days and placed on the DL, but that might be a permanent move for the year. A torn labrum brings him back by Spring training, but maybe not with the Dodgers??? In my opinion...he stays if he is cheap, but look out for up and coming catchers in the minors.

One last note on this victory...it's not 10PM on the west coast and the game is over. Vicente should do that every time. Glad that Torre came to his senses and let him finish the job!

GO DODGERS!!! GO BLUE!!!

Padilla El Jefe

Lo que pasó esta noche en Dodger Stadium fue algo increíble. Vicente Padilla casi pichio un no hitter si no fuera por el intento de un estirado James Loney que no alcanzó suficiente para agarrar la pelota a su izquierdo. Pero el intento y el esfuerzo todavía esta vivo para los Dodgers!

Vicente vino al estadio con el derecho de evitar mal lugar de la zona de strike. Pues, lo hizo, un shutout de los Padres del primer lugar!

Casi, casi, un no hitter!!!


Viva Azul!!!

Is AJ Ellis really what the Dodgers need or is Xavier Paul that bad?

Apparently, Joe Torre feels that Xavier Paul is destined for greatness in AAA Albuquerque. I am not exactly thrilled about this recent decision. I know that XP or X-Man as I like to call him has not exactly given the kid everyday playing time prior to Pod or Podsednik, but I think sending him to Albuquerque for AJ Ellis is not exactly a step up offensively. I know that Catcher Brad Ausmus can catch a few games here and there, but bringing in AJ Ellis and taking out an OF option stinks. Here are my reasons:

1. Pod is not really hitting and has seen his average dip from .309-.303 BA./ .167 BA as a Dodger

2. Garrett Anderson is not playing to form offensively: batting .184 with 2 HR, and an OPS of .484

3. Xavier Paul: .231 BA, .595 OPS


My take is that XP, can get the job done which maybe makes you wonder why did we acquire Pod???

One reason could be it is possible for Torre knew more about Furcal's health a week ago. Or maybe, Torre needed a speedster he had with Juan Pierre. I have heard the argument countless times on other blogs that Juan Pierre should not have been traded, but was because of his high salary. I think, it's because the writing is on the wall and that last Saturday that Manny's days are numbered and Ned is looking for the right deal to unload him. If that happens, I think it's Tampa. Torre has a thing against the Yankees. I can talk about this at length later at my Bye Bye Joe Entry in November.

So, Torre can keep calling on the shuttle bus for XP between LA and Albuquerque, but in reality, XP has a lot of potential and just needs playing time. He is not the fielder everyone thought he would be, but he has a lot of upside. Remember when Kemp wasn't perfect?

If the Dodgers don't get on a roll in the next couple of weeks, it would be nice to see him back up seeing what the kid can do!

Go Dodgers!

Hello Dodgers! It's Now or Never!

The Los Angeles Dodgers face Matt Latos and the San Diego Padres tonight at Dodger Stadium. Right now, the stench of 6 straight losses is felt by the fans and the media. The players? This team has a resiliant attitude and they believe in their ability to get the job done. I am confident that the Dodgers can win tonight. However, and more alarming is the teams best option at SS, Raffy Furcal is out of the lineup and the reasoning is a bit unclear. Last night, everyone saw why we have Matt Kemp and his 5 for 5 night and why we pull all our hair out as fans when he makes base running blunders. It's not just him, but James Loney somewhat misjudged the throwing arm of Chris Denorfia in Center Field and advanced on the throw with 2 outs and Matt Kemp not exactly racing home. Sure that was a loss of a run, but let's say if Loney doesn't advance and Kemp scores, the Dodgers are ahead on the Padres and it certainly makes a difference for the psyche of the Padres being down a run or two and roughing up Clay Richard is a much better situation for the Dodgers.

Again, if the Dodgers can get a win tonight and win the next two, they have a good chance to gain a few games back and quite possibly back on the Giants.


I am looking at the glass half full here so seeing the Giants crumble in Colorado and Atlanta might put me back in "I told you so" mode. In reality, I am tired about hearing how the Giants are going to the playoffs when last time I checked, they have not clinched anything.

Vin Scully brought up an excellent anecdote from the past Brooklyn Dodgers ball club. The Dodgers of 1951, one of the best Dodger teams ever, in a 154 game season, won over 100 games. Now, Larry McPhail of the Dodgers brass came down to the club house and told the team: "You guys are going to lose." The Dodgers blew a 10.5 game lead in Mid August to not get to the playoffs. Does that bode well for us as fans? Not exactly, but some hope can be gained from Vin being Vin.


However, it's still a long way to go before the season ends and so as fans we have to weather the storm and pray/hope the Dodgers can win a long string of games against good hitting and pitching teams.

Ted Lilly on the mound tonight serves as somewhat as a stopper of this horrible losing skid. He eats innings, but also pitches effectively. I am hopeful that he gets the Dodgers to a good start of what could be a great winning streak and for that to happen, everyone needs to hit and run the bases well!

Go Dodgers!

America has Spoken

Fellow Bloggers and Dodger fans,

On ESPN, 41% of America believes the Dodgers will make a playoff run. The Rockies were 35% most likely to make a run. I know that we are now in August, but last time I checked the calendar has hit "dog days" and not October. For you Dodger fans who are feeling skeptical and downright bullish on the Dodgers let's consider a few possibilities.

1. The Dodgers have a difficult home stand against First Place San Diego and Last place Washington. In addition, they play the Rockies somewhere.

2. The Giants have their toughest road and home series left:

2 with the Rockies in Denver, 4 with Atlanta, 4 with the Cubs at home, and then 3 with San Diego. Even worse? Followed by 3 with the Phillies on the road and 3 with St. Louis on the road....If they win each series, they will be fine. I predict, they can't and it will come down to having to face the toughest hitters and pitchers they have faced all season. It spells disaster and I can picture Bochy walking back and forth from the dugout to the mound so much so that he'll need a motorized vehicle to get to and fro.

3. San Diego has an incredible record at home and on the road, but they cannot hit. Sure, since the All Star break, they have been on fire, but they just lost a series to the Marlins. San Diego has the Dodgers for 4, Arizona for 3, 4 in Chicago, 3 in Milwaukee. The Dodgers series is the most interesting.

4. Dodgers play well at home and it's time to have a positive home stand and beat Philly and Atlanta on the Road.

Where am I going with this? I really don't think we should count our Boys in Blue out.

I am upset about managerial moves before and during games. Some have and prove questionable? Why not put Theriot batting Eight? Martin bats better earlier in the lineup and pitching to Renteria in the 7th? I know you don't load the bases with two outs, but if Matt Cain is 0-24 against the Dodgers at the plate- you pitch to him and load the bases by walking Renteria. Matt Cain has a chance to ground out, flyout, or strike out! Yeesh!

So, the Dodgers have played a little too loose for my liking and gone is the care- free we can spot a couple of runs because when it's over we'll win by 6. The only thing necessary is to hear "I love LA" at least 5 times this week as the Dodgers play and win.

Schedule information: Based on ESPN.GO.COM/MLB

Dodgers swept into Obscurity

Apparently the Dodgers have a selective memory that Matt Cain never beat them. Matt Kemp almost tied the game, but the ball landed in bike riding Aaron Rowand's glove. While I could fill this blog with expletives, I will spare my energy and look forward to winning 3 from San Diego.

Panic has not set in, but it's 8 games out and 7 out of the Wild Card. It hurts, yeah, but the team will rally and try to right the ship. This SS Dodger cruise ship is close to hitting an Ice Berg in the Bearing Strait.

I believe Ethier will be back for the next game and congratulations to him and his wife on their 2nd child!

Go Dodgers! Please watch out for icebergs!

Today is a New Day

Hello Dodger fans,

Today is a bright new day and Kid K, Clayton Kershaw takes the hill with a purpose to put a halt to this losing streak. It is also a new month, and I predict the Dodgers will be back to their winning ways. On a bright note, they face Matt Cain who can't beat the Dodgers! Additionally, Billingsley seems to finally be a formidable force I. The rotation. Dodgers need to get back to basics, not panic, work the count and the hitting will follow. Torre is the right guy for good things to happen.

Realistically, the Dodgers could miss the playoffs. I guarantee that they will certainly give it their all and give it their best shot. Colletti finally got his man in Lilly and a couple of pieces that gives Torre some options. Let's cheer for the Blue today loud and proud and show those Giants fans what a real team looks like in August and September when the games mean more! Remind those ugly orange and black beer guzzling fans that it's been a long time since they've won, 1954! Current trophy case? Nothing in San Franciso!

Go Blue!!!

Dodgers and trade news!

Well folks, it appears the Blake Dewitt Era is over. Peter Gammons said this would be done in less than one hour. Apparently Ned needs 5 signatures to get it done. Still puzzled by Theriot. Maybe since he and Xavier Paul are from Slidell, La, XP will get better?

It looks to be an interesting fit for Dewitt to the Cubs. Can the Dodgers make a run? It's looking like a no, but the Giants have not ended their run unfortunately. The Dodgers have a chance and it starts at 1:10PM at AT&T park and possibly with a trade.

As for Manny, a ton of buzz. I think he is fair game and I think it should happen, but not today.

Too soon to break apart team. Dodgers committed to Bills, Ethier, Kemp, Kershaw, and Loney. Not willing to deal.

Go Dodgers!

Pondering who to buy and the Dodgers chances of a three peat for the division

As a GM of any baseball team, the first priority is to make sure that the players on the field are the best for the long haul. As a GM of the Dodgers, I would try and find the best players that are going to bring a winner now and into the future. The Dodgers have long been graced with story book endings of seasons winning championships (6 total)....However, these are not your father's Dodgers or mine for that matter. There are squabbling owners and hurt fans...It was evident that the Dodgers were playing the Mets in an empty ballpark. Very sad to see the reserve section and poor Bleacher beach almost empty!

Ned has a tough task on this hands: as his interview with Ramona Shelburne of ESPN Los Angeles is any indication: He needs a pitcher, reliever, and a LF.

Arriving home from my road trip to Los Angeles, I discovered that the Dodgers might be in on two of the three needed pieces to compete: Josh Volstadt and Scott Podsednik. Volstadt would be a huge pick up and he's dirt cheap the next few years. Podsednik is in the twilight of his career and if we need another Dave Roberts then he's good for running the bases. Too bad Manny can't just hit and have someone run to first.

My picks:Pitching

1. Oswalt (I would love to see him face the Giants again this weekend)

2. Josh Volstadt (He has a chance to fit right in and we need his arm).

3. Ben Sheets (Maybe in August)

4. Derek Lowe: (If the Braves take his salary, I am sure this would be a good fit)

5. Gil Meche (KC)



Fielding: LF/OF

1. BJ Upton (Not going to happen)

2. Melky Cabrera (Braves- we'll gladly do this and send over 3 prospects)

3. Jermaine Dye: Could happen- might happen

4. Jose Guillen: KC- Why not? He can hit, he can throw, he can punch managers too, but he wouldn't dare do that in LA!

More to follow!

Dodger Game Aftermath

First of all fans, I want to offer a prayer and good thoughts for Eugenio Velez of the Giants. I hope he makes a speedy recovery.

Now for the Dodgers, they have been anemic at the plate and have not gotten rid of this hitting with RISP bug. I am curious to understand why Torre rests his best players 6 games back in 4th place.

Kenley Jensen was the man yesterday and started the bull pen rally. The bullpen held it together for the first time in a while. Please get rid of Taschner as a specialist. He's terrible.

I enjoyed both games, but yesterdays game after Loney's walkoff blast was euphoric!

Go Dodgers and it's back to the iPhone for listening and watching the Dodgers!

r ght field pavilion! I had just purchased a James Loney t-shirt in the 10th! Go Dodgers!

r Dodgers win 3-2 over Mets! George Sherril with the win and Oliver Perez with the loss! A lot of drama in extras and James Loney hit a homerun into the ri

F At Dodgers game. Dodgers have 1 hit only. Santana getting help in outfield by both Jason Bay and Angel Pagan. Dodgers need a spark to get back in this ga

F me. An error earlier by Dewitt scored the run on a sure strike em out throw em out and Dewitt dropped the ball. More later.

+ ntana.

Santana v. Padilla. Go Dodgers. Tonight at 7:10!

+ on the 4th of July! Let's see what happens tonight. Padilla has pitched well of late. I think the Dodgers need to get on the base paths to pressure Sa

+ best part about it. You really enjoy the place if you have not been in a long time. I saw the Dodgers play at Coors in 2008 and then in San Diego in 2009

+ Nice to see the Dodgers put together a winning streak! I will be in the stadium tonight for the first time since 2006. It's been awhile, but that's the

Dodgers at the Deadline

The Dodgers at the Deadline will have certainly a few holes to fill. While yes, getting a quality SP that is consistent would be helpful, let's examine the current stable of arms in the pen.

George Sherril: I truly feel badly for him, but he needs go to another place to pitch. A 7.48 ERA, 2 Holds and 12 K's? He's looking like Jim Gott from 1989 before he dropped his ERA down from 20. Sherril is a quality lefty that was a closer. However, he is only closing the door to his car when he leaves the ballpark. He's difficult to count on with a lead in the 7th or 8th. Could George Sherril to Minnesota for Kevin Slowey work???

Carlos Monasterios: 3.61 ERA, 24 SO, WHIP 1.30. I like this kid. He has come through huge for the Dodgers this year. He can't be traded, can he? I will have to check this out. If he can, teams should be taking a chance. I know why he isn't getting taking off the roster...he'd go back to the Phillies. You can't toss them a line now.

Justin Miller and Travis Schlichting:

Not exactly spectacular.

Ok, so the Dodgers need to find some relievers before the deadline. I think they can get 1 and maybe as was suggested, they can trade James McDonald for Maholm with a prospect then that could be a good deal. Pittsburgh Post Gazette

However, what do you do about Broxton and give him some rest? I have a solution. Not a great one. Send Kuroda to the Pen. I know it sounds crazy, but he could go into the Pen and be quite dominant. This has been the year that he's been healthy and he had a good run for awhile. All I am saying is that if the Dodgers find 2 relievers and 1 starter or maybe another in August, then move Kuroda to the Pen.

Kuroda has a good fastball, splitter, cutter, change, etc. He'd be very dominant. He might even through harder given an assignment of 2 innings.

Anyway, that is all for now! Go Dodgers!

Dodgers Win!

Hello Dodger Fans,

It's complete jubilation here in the South Bay of the Bay Area in Orange and Black Territory because the Dodgers won their 50th game!!! It's going to take a lot to get back into the race. While I am writing this, the Mets pen has just taken a huge hit in Arizona, so I am going into this confident about facing the Mets for 4 games. (UPDATE) Beltran might have to pitch!

Highlights of tonight: Chad Billingsley and Casey Blake

Chad wins his 8th game and strikes out 3 and gets his first CG in 2 years.

Casey "at the bat" Blake gets his 10th homerun, 2 RBI, and 2-4 at the plate.

What can be learned about this series about the Giants?

1. Giants have become more patient on their hot streak at the plate. They are becoming better at drawing walks no matter the situation. This is the same philosophy that the Dodgers have. The Giants early on were all over and definitely more aggressive. Now they are just plain dangerous.

2. No win is in the bag until the final out. Glad for the CG, but putting in Kuo could have had a disastrous overworking affect on his arm, shoulder, and biceps tendons. Favorite quote: Giants broadcaster mentioned last night that Kuo was built like a linebacker...not sure if it was Kruk or Kuip. (Maybe I should list the Dodgers all time football looking team!)

3. Vin Scully is still the man from the broadcast booth. Learned that Barry Zito starred in the Nutcracker in the Oakland Ballet.

4. Rules such as 8.06 and 8.06B must be ammended to avoid controversy. My question is, if Broxton should have been allowed to stay and Mattingly would have been kicked out why wasn't that considered? Bochy took advantage of a substitute ump and he got away with it. I don't care if this still stings, but the win tonight did help.

5. Raffy Furcal is on fire. He is on a mission to take over the NL in Batting and lead this team both defensively and with his bat. Stealing bases to help get in position for some runs was nice to see.

6. Lincecum has been inconsistent, getting tagged and figured out by the Dodgers is a good thing especially after last losing to him and his bat 7-0 in April.

7. Clayton Kershaw is growing up and becoming very dominant at 22 years of age.

8. The Dodgers played better without Torre on the Bench. Bring on Donnie Baseball!

9. Torre might go to the Cubs and I am not sure if they sell Bigelow Tea in Chicago!

10. Dodgers still need pitching help and you can add a LF to keep Carroll playing in a utility role.

Dodgers v. Mets tomorrow:

Kuroda v. Takahashi (Japanese media will be in full force)

e tradeline. That the Dodgers are hampered by the McCourt divorce.

Tonight will be the best pitching matchup of the season. Kid K for 10 versus Tim Lin

Buster Olney shared this morning on Sportscenter that the Dodgers front office is not to confident that they will be able to get a starting pitcher by th

Based on my last post. I would say that Ned does have some irons in the fire based on the latest from MLBtraderumors.com

Questions Answered about J-Mac

Well folks, it certainly looks like the SS Dodger Cruise Ship has hit some very rough waters. I am not sure if all of the passengers (players) know what is going on.

As for tonight, not even huge Giants miscues could yield more than 2 runs. As for the K department, that's an improvement from the lack of strikeouts by Dodger pitchers in St. Louis.

What we saw from J-Mac was a last ditch effort to get a spot on the 25 man roster. He failed miserably. I don't care who you are, but you don't throw gasoline on a fire by throwing high fastballs to the Giants hitters that are as hungry for a BBQ right after church.

The Dodgers, won't last with J-Mac, so maybe, just maybe, Weaver could get the nod in 5 days. After that, the only option left is trying to promote another guy from AAA Albuquerque.

Tomorrow night will be an outstanding opportunity for Clayton Kershaw (Kid K) to show who has more upside v. Tim Lincecum (The Freak).

Let's see what happens and losing a game to the Giants stinks because you have the bases loaded with 2 outs and nothing...

Let's see if Manny can come back and help right the ship!

A New Start for Jason McDonald

Hello fellow readers, bloggers, and fans of the Dodgers! Jason McDonald is on the hill tonight and I have a hunch that it will go well. McDonald finished last year with a record of 5-5 and an ERA of 4.00, and 5 Holds, 54 K's. Not a bad result, but mostly accomplished in relief after not panning out as a starter.

Two major questions will be answered tonight:

Is J-Mac the starter for the future (which is now)? Does he fill a hole as a 5th starter?

However, I tend to believe that this is Ned's way of saying, here you go Toronto! We have J-Mac! Here you go Cleveland! Here is our prospect!

Now let's get a deal done! Give me Fausto for J-Mac and Hu! or Toronto: J-Mac, Hu, and a guy from A, AA, AAA for Jason Frasor or Scott Downs!

Or maybe J-Mac is the answer. I guess time will tell, but this is nothing more than a dangle if you ask me given the fact that he has had countless opportunities to prove himself.

I am hoping for a good start and an end to this horrible start to the 2nd half of the season!

My wheels are starting to turn and I think I have stumbled upon something. I can't confirm anything and this is my own judgement.

e!

M

d now Cards. Dodgers had this game down to the 1-2 count on Holliday. Broxton managed to a fastball past Holliday and then ouch! Game over! Dodgers los

I know that my experience is limited with blogging, but today's Dodger loss was bad. We've seen these games before. Week 1 vs Florida. Vs. The Yankees an

Giants and Mets Scouting Report

First of all fellow fans, ATT park is always a great experience. Even with slightly (being nice) inebriated Giants and Mets fans. Yes, you heard me correctly, Mets Fans! I have never seen so many in my life for a Giants game! I do realize we have transplant New Yorkers in the Bay Area, but Mets fans, nice to see them in Orange and Blue. Here were my observations:

First of all, Aubrey Huff can really handle himself well with the bat and at First base. However, his 5 or 6 putouts were an amazing lift to Barry Zito. Barry needed only a bit of help since he struck out 9-10 Mets.

Secondly, we all know that Barry Zito can deal, but his curve ball was baffling Mets hitters. He had enough stamina to come into the 9th, but in typical fashion Bruce Bochy goes to his almost sure thing in Brian Wilson.

Thirdly, Jeff Francoeur was playing Right and Center Field in gap control if you will. Carlos Beltran is still trying to come back and get acclimated to running hard after fly balls. He made a couple of nice plays jogging to the track, but anything in front of him such as a sinking liner in the 7th, he kind of misjudged. I realize knee surgery is a serious rehab, but it's amazing to see him hitting, double earlier in the game, and running the bases (take a note Manny).

Fourth, the Giants still look anemic at the plate. They barely moved the runner from 3rd on a high tag by Barajas and Huff barely got under the tag for what looked like an out from Triples Alley. The ball beat him, but Barajas showed why he has been a backup catcher most of his career. For what it was, it looked questionable until I saw the replay. Good call...after the fact.

My last observation was for the poor guy behind me and my family wearing the 1978 Padres All Star Game Jersey (Brown and Yellow) Ugly! But, he got called a bum by some gentlemen that got the crowd going and it was needless to say hilarious. I was wearing my Dodgers hat, but it was the green LA, so I received almost zero flack for it! Ha Ha! Padres fan was so miffed that later on, he told me who was in first, I just pointed out to him that he has no rings and the Dodgers have 5 from L.A.! Nice to be able to use that once in awhile.

My wishes for today in St. Louis:

1. Win
2. Manny comes back soon
3. Would like to see more of Xavier Paul if Manny can't go.
4. Dodgers seriously consider they need to make a trade quickly.

Go Dodgers!

Follow me on Twitter @mickserr

Mick

So, that's all she wrote. Giants 1 Mets 0. Mets surprisingly failing to execute with RISP.

Scouting Next Two opponents

Well folks, I am headed on the bullet train to see the New York Metropitans play the beloved (by San Francisco) Giants. I am going there with my Dodger blue fleece and St. Patricks Dodger hat. The Blue Crew face the Mets and Giants so I will get a good look at Buster Posey and Carlos Beltran. I am excited and hopeful that it's a good game and that the Giants don't win. Truth is, the reason for going is an annual reunion with the Giants side of the family. Follow me on twitter @mickserr

More to follow

Dodger Fan Bay Area

A Great Owner in Pro Sports, moments of silence for the Boss

Just this morning George Steinbrenner passed away from a massive heart attack. It's a truly sad day and a moment of silence should be taken. Most of all prayers for his family as they mourn their loss. Steinbrenner was the architect of some great Yankee teams and is remembered for wearing his white turtle neck and occasional appearances on the show Seinfeld. Please join with me in sharing so
some classic memories of Boss.

Ethier a Center Fielder

Today Charlie Manuel named André Ethier a CF for tomorrow night's All Star Game. What is he doing? Trying to sabotage our season? I'd rather have Ethier play as a DH. According to Dodger Dugout, Ethier has never played center field. I guess Juan Pierre didn't make the squad, so that could have been an option.

Other Notes:

Dodgers blanked the Cubs 7-0 on Sunday! It appears that Vicente Padilla is back at his old form and his use of tres flores hair grease is helping his slurve. In all seriousness, it appears that the Dodgers are hitting and that is a good sign. I remain hopeful their bats actually fly with them to St. Louis for the next four games.

Go Dodgers and we are now 18 days closer to a revamped roster and the usual trade this guy or that guy talk. More on that after the All Star game.

5 Reasons to make a deal before the SS Dodger cruise Ship turns into the Titanic

Hello fellow readers,



First of all, I am not at all sold on the current state of our team to the South that I proudly call the Dodgers. With the back and forth in the press about the divorce and the media's overall perception that the Dodgers are the sinking ship because of a lack of pitching, I guess things could be worse like another 50 game suspension of an outfielder/slugger. In reality, the Dodgers are a team that have always pride themselves on pitching.



If you don't have money, who do you get? What should you do? Here are my suggestions:



1.) Trade a current starter on the team now: As they say in business, everyone is replaceable. No one is untouchable. I say that anyone can go. This regime (FM) has shown that to be the case with the crazy Marlins trade LoDuca for Penny back in 2004.



2.) Consider your friend to the East the Arizona D-Backs for a trade. Take a chance trying to see what it would cost for Dan Haren.



3.) Look for arms in Japan. If you can't win this year, there are plenty of quality arms in Japan.
Yu Darvish looked fantastic two years ago against our best players in the MLB for Japan. Maybe he's available.


4.) Turn Raffy Furcal into a pitcher. He would be like Pedro, but with a side arm and up and in delivery. Just think, playing the Phillies and he'd accidentally hit Victorino.



Ok, in all seriousness, you can't seriously think that Ned is going stand pat. He's going to bet the ranch on trying to get a quality frontline starter. If it's not Cliff Lee, he's going to see if Oswalt can be the guy. If he runs out of options, I guess there is always sticking with what you have and make sure you have enough life boats.

Growing up a fan of the Dodgers in the Bay Area

This is my first entry so take it easy. I infiltrated this territory we call the SF Bay area in 1978 when I was born into an LA Dodger family. It could have been the Dodger hat my mom wore when I was born (she's an A's fan) or quite possibly my tío that was a huge Dodger fan and was always excited to talk about them, but I think it was my first game. Against the Astros, Batting Glove Night, and at Dodger Stadium. 1988 was icing on the cake when all of my classmates would yell Beat LA and I could just smile since the Dodgers beat the A's in 5 games.

This blog will be about my insight from afar and how I see things from my perspective. I read the times, ESPN Los Angeles, and the Dodgers website, so that's where I get my information.

I may at times really praise or criticize anything and everything that the owner, Joe Torre, or anyone else does.

I am excited to be here on my first sports blog and we'll see how it goes.

None of my views are supported by the Dodgers and their affiliates. The views are my own.

Thanks and happy commenting and blogging!