Dodgers Notes from Spring Training- Game 30

Throughout Spring Training the Dodgers PR department sends out helpful daily notes from Camelback Ranch, and I am happy to pass them along.

LOS ANGELES DODGERS (13-12-4) at Arizona Diamondbacks (11-16-2)

Saturday, March 31, 2012 – 1:05 p.m., Talking Stick

LHP Clayton Kershaw vs. RHP Ian Kennedy

Spring Game 30/Road Game 16

Todays Starting Lineup:

Dodgers: @skinnyswag9 SS, Hairston 2B, @TheRealMattKemp CF, Ethier RF, Rivera LF, @jamesloney_7 1B, Uribe 3B, @AJEllis17 C, Kershaw P
Diamondbacks: Roberts 3B Bloomquist SS Upton RF Kubel LF Young CF Montero C Goldschmidt 1B Harbin 2BKennedy P

Upcoming Spring Training Schedule:

(pic via twitter @SteveLyons12)

• WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?: The Dodgers and Diamondbacks meet for the first time this spring in the penultimate Cactus League contest for Los Angeles. Tomorrow, the two squads will tangle again at Camelback Ranch – Glendale in the Dodgers’ Cactus League finale. The National League West rivals will meet 18 times during the regular season, starting with a two-game series on May 14 and 15 at Dodger Stadium. Last year, the NL-West champion Diamondbacks won the season series with the Dodgers, 10-8.

• HURLERS: LHP Clayton Kershaw will make his fifth and final Cactus League start this afternoon. The 2011 Cy Young Award winner is 2-2 with a 1.47 ERA (3 ER/18.1 IP) and a .203 opponents’ average against this spring. The southpaw’s next start will be Thursday, April 5 in San Diego’s PETCO Park, otherwise known as Opening Day, 2012. The start will be Kershaw’s second consecutive Opening Day assignment. He will be followed to the hill by:

  ● RHP Ronald Belisario will make his seventh appearance this spring. The native of Venezuela has allowed five runs in 7.0 innings this March, including a scoreless frame on Thursday against the White Sox.
  

  ● RHP Josh Lindblom will make his team-leading 10th appearance of the Cactus League season today. Thus far, Lindblom has a 4.50 ERA (5 ER/10.0 IP) this month and has struck out seven batters without a walk. The right-hander out of Purdue went 1-0 with a 2.73 ERA (9 ER/29.2 IP) in 27 appearances for the Dodgers last year.

  ● LHP Scott Rice gave up a run on Thursday vs. the White Sox and now has a 4.70 ERA (4 ER/7.2 IP) to go along with eight strikeouts and just two walks. The 30-year-old non-roster invitee is looking to make the Major Leagues for the first time in his 14-year professional career.

(Oh ya!! @Dodgers !!!! 1000s still in line to audition!!!, via twitter @MannyStreetz)

• RACE TO THE FINISH: With just two games left, the Dodgers are looking to clinch their first winning Cactus League campaign since joining the league in 2009. Additionally, at 13-12 with five exhibition games left, the club is seeking its first winning Spring Training since going 17-16-1 in 2007. Yesterday, the Dodgers lost their fourth consecutive game, falling 9-4 to Milwaukee. Minutes later, the streak was snapped as the other split-squad put the finishing touches on a 6-3 victory over the Cubs in Mesa. Andre Ethier, James Loney, Luis Cruz and Matt Angle all had multi-hit games yesterday and LHP Chris Capuano looked spectacular on the hill, allowing just two hits and one run over 6.0 innings against the Brewers.

• FOLLOW THE LEADERS: Dee Gordon went 1-for-3 with a triple yesterday, while Andre Ethier belted his third homer of the spring and drove in four runs. The duo have been two of Los Angeles’ hottest hitters this spring as Gordon ranks among the NL leaders in batting average (.382, 5^th), steals (10, 2^nd), runs (15, 1^st) and on-base percentage (.460, 4^th). Ethier leads the league with 42 total bases, is tied for the league lead with 16 RBI, nine doubles and three triples and leads the Dodgers in average (.400) and slugging percentage (.933).

• 

(Los Angeles Dodgers Matt Kemp with Milwaukee Brewers Ryan Braun Friday, March 30, 2012 at Camelback Ranch-Glendale in Phoenix, Arizona © Jon SooHoo/Los Angeles Dodgers 2012)

• WHO’S READY!: The 2012 regular season kicks off for the Dodgers in just five days in San Diego and the Dodger Stadium 50^th anniversary season begins in 10 days. The Dodgers’ home opener against the Pirates has sold out, but a limited number of seats for the big day are available through the purchase of Full Season, 25-game Pick ‘Em and 15-game Mini Plan packages.

• SING FOR THE FENCES: Today in Los Angeles, the Dodgers are holding the first Red, White and Dodger Blue National Anthem Auditions at Dodger Stadium. The goal is to select performers to sing the “Star-Spangled Banner” at home games this season. Singing hopefuls were lining up outside the stadium before 5:00 a.m. and hundreds of potential idols have turned out to let the judges hear their pipes. One participant will be selected to sing the national anthem at the Dodgers’ first home game in Los Angeles, as they take on the Angels next Tuesday, April 3.

(Auditions to sing before a @Dodgers game have begun, via twitter @Dodgers)

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: LLLUUUUUUCCCC!!!

Here are this weekends autograph opportunities throughout the Southland. As always, be sure to check the Blue Heaven Calendar for other events (a link can always be found on the tab at the top of this page, just left of center), and always confirm with the establishment. Everything is subject to change.

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I wanted to first note that auditions are being held this Saturday for aspiring singers at Dodger Stadium for National Anthem duties.
Here are the details:

WHAT: The Dodgers will hold Red, White and Dodger Blue National Anthem Auditions this Saturday and performers will be chosen to sing the “Star-Spangled Banner” at home games this season. One participant will be selected to sing the national anthem at the Dodgers’ first home game in Los Angeles, as they take on the Angels next Tuesday, April 3. Entry and parking for the Red, White and Dodger Blue National Anthem Auditions will be free.

• Stadium gates open at 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., with auditions occurring until 6 p.m. on a first come, first serve basis
• All performers are encouraged to bring a DVD with their rendition of the National Anthem and a resume
• Please note that based upon attendance, not all performers will have the chance to audition before 5 p.m. in which case, singers will be considered based upon their DVD submission. We'll draw three people from those submissions to perform at Dodger Stadium during the season
• Performers will be asked to sing a cappella and will begin at "rockets' red glare"
• The auditions are free to all ages. Performers under the age of 18 are required to be accompanied by a legal guardian
• Each performer is allowed to bring one friend or family member with them inside of the stadium gates

** Performers are encouraged to bring in-ears or headphones to help with the acoustic delay**

Go here for more details. And GOOD LUCK!

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If you can't carry a tune then why not get an autograph of former Laker Robert Horry at Frank & Sons in the City of Industry on Saturday. See the flyer below, and a link here.

Horry will be signing from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

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Can you ever beat free autographs from a Southern Californian legend and Hall of Famer. Former Kings left winger and current Kings President of Business Operations, Luc Robitaille, will be in La Mirada for a free autograph session. See the flyer below and a link can be found here.

Details:

Sunday, April 1st; 10 am - 12 pm
Living Spaces
14501 Artesia Blvd
La Mirada, CA 90638
(714) 228-1164
Only one autograph per person.
Autographs available as time permits.
Line will be limited to 300 guests.
Hat Tip: LA Inspiration

Mears Auction: A Couple of Vintage Dodgers Photos

Here are a couple of great photos from Mears monthly auction featuring some old-time Dodgers.

This is a first generation press photo from the archives of The Sporting News. Below is Don Drysdale, from 1964, doing some running during Spring Training.

(Auction Link)

Here is another Sporting News press photo featuring a couple of current and a future Dodger first baseman.

Los Angeles Dodgers first basemen Frank Howard and Gil Hodges share repetitions with young prospect Gil Hodges Junior at the Dodgers spring training camp in 1960.

I don't think Junior could have better tutors than these two guys.

(Auction Link)

Dodgers Notes from Spring Training- Game 29

Throughout Spring Training the Dodgers PR department sends out helpful daily notes from Camelback Ranch, and I am happy to pass them along.

Milwaukee Brewers (11-14-2) at LOS ANGELES DODGERS (12-11-4)

Friday, March 30, 2012 – 1:05 p.m., Camelback Ranch - Glendale

LHP Chris Capuano vs. Francisco Rodriguez

Spring Game 29/Home Game 14

Split squad games today.

Todays Starting Lineup for the game at Camelback Ranch:

Dodgers: Hairston LF, Sellers SS, Kemp CF, Ethier RF, Rivera 1B, Fields 3B, A.J. Ellis C, Joe Becker 2B, Capuano P.
Brewers: Weeks 4, Gomez 8, Braun 7, Conrad 5, Lucroy 2, Gamel 3, Izturis 6, Aoki 9, Rodriguez 1.

Todays Starting Lineup for the other game in Mesa:

Dodgers: Gordon SS, M. Ellis 2B, Loney 1B, Uribe 3B, Gwynn LF, Angle CF, Cruz RF, Treanor C, Nieve P.
Cubs: DeJesus RF, Barney 2B, Castro SS, LaHair 1B, Soriano LF, Stewart 3B, Byrd CF, Soto C, Dempster P

Upcoming Spring Training Schedule:

(Eddie Vedder and Johnny Ramone visit Dodger Dugout, pic via twitter @PearlJamOnline)

• SPLITSVILLE: The Dodgers will play two games this afternoon with split-squads battling the Brewers at Camelback Ranch and the Cubs on the road in Mesa. Los Angeles and Milwaukee split their previous two meetings this spring with the Dodgers winning 7-6 on March 20 in Glendale and losing 7-1 on Sunday in Maryvale. The Dodgers lost the season series 2-4 to Milwaukee last season and the clubs will get their matchups underway early in the 2012 campaign with meetings from April 17-19 at Miller Park and May 29-31 at Dodger Stadium.

• HURLERS: LHP Chris Capuano will make his fifth Cactus League start this afternoon after allowing two runs in 5.0 innings in his last outing on Saturday against the Indians. The 33-year-old spent seven seasons in the Milwaukee organization from 2004-10, going 44-48 with a 4.34 ERA in 139 games (120 starts) with the Brew Crew. Capuano is 1-1 with a 3.29 ERA this spring and has limited opposing hitters to a .231 batting average (12-for-52) with 15 strikeouts in 13.2 innings. He will be followed to the hill by:

  ● RHP Jamey Wright will tie Josh Lindblom for the team lead with his ninth appearance of the spring today after allowing one run in 1.0 inning on Tuesday against the Padres in a spot start. That same day, the 37-year-old had his contract selected by the Dodgers and was added to the club’s 40-man roster, essentially making the club as a non-roster invitee.

  ● RHP Todd Coffey has seen his ERA balloon to 8.53 after allowing a two-run homer in his 1.0 inning of work on Wednesday against the Giants and has allowed runs in three of his last four appearances. Coffey pitched three seasons in Milwaukee from 2008-10 before spending last season in Washington and went 7-8 with a 3.52 ERA in 156 games with the Brewers.

  ● RHP Matt Guerrier will make his third appearance of the spring after a back injury kept him off the mound since his last appearance on March 11 against the Cubs.

  

(pic via Jon SooHoo/ LA Dodgers 2012)

• ROSTER UPDATE: Following yesterday’s game, the Dodgers released non-roster invitees OF Cory Sullivan (.289 batting average in 22 games) and C Josh Bard (.111 average in 14 games) from their minor league contracts. There are currently 37 players remaining in Major League camp, including Rubby De La Rosa and Blake Hawksworth, who are on the 60-day disabled list.

• THREE DOWN: The Dodgers lost their third consecutive game yesterday, falling 3-1 to the White Sox. Juan Uribe posted his second multi-hit game of the spring, going 2-for-3, and A.J. Ellis drove in Los Angeles’ only run of the game with a sacrifice fly in the fifth. Aaron Harang continued to impress in his fifth Cactus League start, allowing just one run and striking out six in 6.0 solid innings.

• FOLLOW THE LEADERS: Dee Gordon (six games) and Andre Ethier (eight games) both had their hitting streaks snapped yesterday, but have been two of Los Angeles’ hottest hitters this spring. Gordon ranks among the NL leaders in batting average (.385, 5^th), steals (10, 2^nd), runs (13, T-3^rd) and on-base percentage (.458, 6^th). Ethier is tied for the league lead with eight doubles and three triples, is tied for fifth with 36 totals bases and leads the Dodgers in average (.390) and slugging percentage (.878).

  

(pic via Jon SooHoo/ LA Dodgers 2012)

• SING FOR THE FENCES: The Dodgers will hold Red, White and Dodger Blue National Anthem Auditions tomorrow starting at 9:00 a.m. at Dodger Stadium to select performers to sing the “Star-Spangled Banner” at home games this season. One participant will be selected to sing the national anthem at the Dodgers’ first home game in Los Angeles, as they take on the Angels next Tuesday, April 3. Interested performers can find more information and download the participant waiver at Dodgers.com/Anthem.

• LEAVE THE LIGHT ON: The Dodgers will pack up and leave Arizona for Southern California following Sunday’s game against the Diamondbacks at Camelback Ranch – Glendale. The Freeway Series against the Angels gets underway on Monday night in Anaheim (7:05 p.m.) with games on Tuesday night (7:10 p.m.) and Wednesday afternoon (12:10 p.m.) at Dodger Stadium. Fans can get their first in-person look at the 2012 Dodgers by visiting Dodgers.com or calling 866-DODGERS.

It Was Always Meant To Be

From Jon at Dodgers Thoughts:

Rachel Robinson to join Dodgers Board of Directors. Link

She is not only on the Board. The Jackie Robinson Foundation is also a partner in the purchase. Wow!

(Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons/White House/Eric Draper)

1947 World Series Press Photos - Yankees vs Dodgers

Do you know what's better than a vintage press photo featuring your favorite team in the World Series? How about a grouping of press photos of that same event.

Recently, I ran into several auctions on eBay featuring numerous press photos from Acme Newspictures that centered on the 1947 World Series between the Yankees and Dodgers. There were a whole bunch to look through, but I wanted to focus on just a handful. See them below.

Stamped "Acme Newspictures" Press Photo with descriptor, date dated Oct 2, 1947, of the New York Yankees vs Brooklyn Dodgers, World Series. "HUDDLE AT THE PLATE, Brooklyn, N.Y.: Six umpires go into a huddle with coaches Chuck Dressen of New York and Ray Blades (face hidden) of Brooklyn to confer on ground rules at the start of the third stanza of the World Series at Ebbets Field on October 2. Catcher Bruce Edwards of Brooklyn warms up at left".

This was the first World Series where 6 umpires were used on the field. In the past, they used the customary 4 umpires around the diamond for the October Classic with 2 umpires available for emergencies.

(Auction Link)

This is from a very tough first inning from Game 4 of the World Series for the Dodgers.

Stamped "Acme Newspictures" Press Photo with descriptor, date dated Oct 3, 1947, of the New York Yankees vs Brooklyn Dodgers, World Series. "DECISION REVERSED, Brooklyn, N.Y.: Peewee Reese, Dodgers shortstop drops the ball for an error on what should have been an easy force out on Tommy Henrich at second base in the first inning of the fourth game of the World Series, at Ebbets Field, Oct. 3. Umpire Babe Pinelli first called Henrich out and then safe".

Bases now loaded for Joe Dimaggio.

(Auction Link)

The game has not started out the way the Dodgers had hoped. It's still the first inning of the game and the Dodgers are trying to minimize the damage. The Yankees lead 1-0 and still have the bases loaded. Time for some relief?

Stamped "Acme Newspictures" Press Photo with descriptor (attached), dated Oct 3, 1947, of the New York Yankees vs Brooklyn Dodgers, World Series. "ELEVEN PITCHES AND OUT, New York.: Singles to George Stirnweiss and Tommy Henrich, and error on Larry Berra's hit to second, and a walk to Joe DiMaggio - all of which took place in eleven pitches by Dodger hurler Harry Taylor - resulted in Mr. Taylor's going to the showers early, in the Yankees-Dodgers fourth World Series game at Ebbets Field, October 3. Here's the conference on the mound as Taylor gets word he's leaving the game in the first inning without retiring a Yank. PeeWee Reese (#1), Bruce Edwards (#10), Hal Gregg, relieving pitcher (left), Coach Clyde Sukeforth, Harry Taylor (right) and Jackie Robinson in rear."

This has got to be one of the earliest hooks ever. Hal Gregg in to pitch.

(Auction Link)

Here, Pee Wee Reese turns an inning ending double play to end the first inning. Hal Gregg has done his job. Heck, he would go a strong seven innings to keep the Dodgers in the game.

Stamped "Acme Newspictures" Press Photo with descriptor (detached but included), dated Oct 3, 1947, of the New York Yankees vs Brooklyn Dodgers, World Series. "KILLING A RALLY, Brooklyn, N.Y.: Joe DiMaggio of the Yankees is out at second as Ed stanky of the Dodgers whips the ball to first to get Billy Johnson on a fast double-play which retired the side in the first inning of the fourth game of the World Series at Ebbets Field, Oct. 3. The Yankees had the bases loaded with none but were only able to score once, the run being forced in on a walk to DiMaggio."

This is probably my favorite photo of the bunch.

(Auction Link)

Still Game 4, Jackie beats out Yogi to the base.

Stamped "Acme Newspictures" Press Photo with descriptor (attached), dated Oct 3, 1947, of the New York Yankees vs Brooklyn Dodgers, World Series. "ROBBIE WINS, New York.: Jackie Robinson likes to beat the batter to first base when he hits a ball hit down his way. He's shown here outrunning Yogi Berra, Yank catcher, in the third inning of the Yanks-Dodgers World Series game at Ebbets Field, October 3. Umpire is Bill McGowan."

(Auction Link)

This is from Game 6 of the 1947 World Series. The Dodgers are in a must win situation if they want to win the series.

Stamped "Acme Newspictures" Press Photo with descriptor (attached), dated Oct 5, 1947, of the New York Yankees vs Brooklyn Dodgers, World Series. "CUT DOWN AS DODGERS SCORE, New York.: Jackie Robinson is forced at second by Phil Rizzuto, who fielded Dixie Walker's grounder, stepped on second threw to first to Jack Phillips, in the first inning of the sixth WORLD SERIES game at Yankee Stadium, Oct. 5. Eddie Stanky from third on the play and Rizzuto was hurt. Snuffy Stirnweiss is at left."

This is a great action photo of Jackie taking out Rizzuto. The Yanks did turn the double play, but had to give up a run to do it. Eddie Stanky scored. Reese would later cross the plate on a pass ball.

(Auction Link)

Dodgers Notes from Spring Training- Game 27

Throughout Spring Training the Dodgers PR department sends out helpful daily notes from Camelback Ranch, and I am happy to pass them along.

Chicago White Sox (11-15) at LOS ANGELES DODGERS (12-10-4)

Thursday, March 29, 2012 – 1:05 p.m., Camelback Ranch - Glendale

RHP Aaron Harang vs. LHP Chris Sale

Spring Game 27/Home Game 13

Todays Starting Lineup:

Dodgers: @skinnyswag9 SS, M Ellis 2B, @TheRealMattKemp CF, Rivera 1B, Ethier RF, Fields LF, Uribe 3B, @AJEllis17 C, Harang RHP

White Sox: De Aza CF, Lillibridge 1B, Rios RF, Dunn DH, Ramirez SS, Flowers C, Viciedo LF, Beckham 2B, Escobar 3B, Sale P.

Upcoming Spring Training Schedule:

(pic via Jon SooHoo/ LA Dodgers 2012)

• GET OUT THE BROOMS?: The Dodgers and White Sox complete their five-game Cactus League series with an afternoon tilt at Camelback Ranch – Glendale today. The Dodgers have won all four contests, including a 17-4 victory in in Tucson that benefitted the Christina-Taylor Green Memorial Foundation. Los Angeles has outscored its Glendale roommates 37-17 this spring. The two squads will meet again during the regular season from June 15-17 at Dodger Stadium.

• HURLERS: Dodger right-hander Aaron Harang will make his fifth start of the spring this afternoon and is 1-1 with a 3.86 ERA (6 ER/14.0 IP) in his first Spring Training with the Dodgers. The 6-7, 230-pound Harang last pitched on Friday in Surprise against the Royals and gave up just one run over 5.0 innings. The San Diego native and resident is coming off one of the best seasons of his 10-year big league career after leading the Padres with 14 wins and posting a career-low 3.64 ERA in 28 starts last season. Since 2004, Harang ranks among the National League leaders in wins (85, 7th), strikeouts (1,223, 3rd), innings pitched (1,467.2, 4th) and complete games (13, T-7^th). He will be followed to the mound by:

  ● RHP Josh Lindblom will make his team-leading ninth appearance of the Cactus League season today. Thus far, Lindblom has a 4.00 ERA (4 ER/9.0 IP) this month and has struck out seven batters without a walk. The right-hander out of Purdue went 1-0 with a 2.73 ERA (9 ER/29.2 IP) in 27 appearances for the Dodgers last year.

  ● RHP Ronald Belisario will make his sixth appearance this spring. The native of Venezuela has allowed five runs in 6.0 innings in March.

  ● LHP Scott Rice tossed a scoreless inning on Tuesday in Peoria and now has a 4.05 ERA (3 ER/6.2 IP) to go along with seven strikeouts and just one walk. The 30-year-old non-roster invitee is looking to make the Major Leagues for the first time in his 14-year professional career.

(pic via Jon SooHoo/ LA Dodgers 2012)

• THIS FEELS FUNNY: The Dodgers have lost two-in-a-row for the first time all spring following yesterday’s 4-1 loss to the Giants. Nathan Eovaldi started and allowed two runs on three hits over 5.0 innings while Kenley Jansen and Mike MacDougal each tossed 1.0 scoreless inning of relief. At the plate, second baseman Mark Ellis went 2-for-3 with a runs scored and a walk while James Loney went 2-for-4 with two extra-base hits and the club’s lone RBI.

• A CHANGE IS GONNA COME: It was announced Tuesday night that the Los Angeles Dodgers and Frank McCourt reached an agreement under which Guggenheim Baseball Management LLC will acquire the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2 billion upon completion of the closing process. The purchasing group includes Mark R. Walter as its controlling partner, as well as Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Peter Guber, Stan Kasten, Bobby Patton and Todd Boehly.

• SPEE -DEE: Dee Gordon has hit safely in his last six games, batting .650 (13-for-20) with eight runs scored, one double, two triples and five steals since March 20. The 23-year-old leads NL qualifiers with a .417 batting average and 14 runs scored and ranks among the leaders in steals (10, 2^nd), OBP (.491, 2^nd), and hits (20, T-5^th).

  

(pic via Jon SooHoo/ LA Dodgers 2012)

• THE BIG BATS: The Dodgers’ .282 team batting average ranks third among National League teams this spring and all three of the club’s starting outfielders are hitting over .300. Andre Ethier’s current eight-game hitting streak has given him a team-leading batting average of .421 while Matt Kemp (.313) and Juan Rivera (.304) rank sixth and seventh on the squad, respectively. Rivera is tied for fourth in home runs with four and Ethier ranks among the leaders in doubles (8, T-1^st), total bases (36, T-4^th), triples (3, T-1^st) and runs scored (11, T-7^th).

• MY GOODNESS, MY GUINNESS: On this date four years ago, a Guinness World Record 115,300 fans watched the Dodgers and Red Sox play in an exhibition game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum that raised more than $2 million for ThinkCure!, the club’s official charity.

A Thumbs Up from Magic

I think for the next several months Los Angeles will be surrounded by Magic. Above is a pic he tweeting this afternoon and I must say it's glorious. Last night, I wasn't sure if I really believed what I was reading, but now I know it's for real. Hopefully we'll have several decades of magic to look forward to.

An eBay Fail- Missing Out on Ishii

With all of the hoopla surrounding the Dodgers centered on Magic Johnson and his buying group, I thought I would take a moment to lament a recent eBay "fail" on my part.

I am not as active on eBay as I used to be. So, when I do decide to take a run at something I focus on memorabilia I really want. This card featured here qualifies as a card I really wanted to add to my collection. It is a 2005 Donruss Diamond Kings autographed card of Kazuhisa Ishii that is numbered as "1 of 1."

I absolutely love these cards. The artwork is just phenomenal. Unfortunately, when the gavel came down I was nowhere is sight. I had completely forgotten all about it. Damn my memory! It eventually sold at what I though was an affordable $55.88; especially considering it is a lone example.

(eBay Auction Link)

Blog Kiosk: 3/28/2012

I like the way this looks, pic via twitter @DesertDoyer.

• Now that we have a owner picked it's now time to consider who might be available as 2013 free agents, via JP Breen at Fangraphs. Peter Gammons suggest that there are five 2013 free agents who could benefit from this sale, via @pgammo on twitter.
• Jon Weisman's story about Magic's new cable channel is worth a second read.
  
• Big League Stew has 10 thoughts about Magic and the Dodgers.

  10. Finally, it sounds weird to say, but Magic's group has a ways to go before they even replicate the success that the McCourt era experienced. Though the franchise was steered into a financial tailspin, it also somehow won three NL West titles, a NL wild card and made back-to-back trips to the NLCS.

• This is just a wrinkle and is not expected to be a roadbloack, via @JonHeyman on twitter.
• Maury Brown at Baseball Prospectus throws in his 2 cents on the Dodgers sale to Magic's group. I've read some reports indicating it's a "All Cash" sale. I don't believe this at all. Maury appears to understand the same thing.
  

  However, there certainly will be debt. How could there not be? Steven Cohen, who was seen as a strong contender to win the right to close the sale, reportedly had the highest amount of cash equity in his offer at $900 million. If the Magic/Kasten group had had that same amount of cash in play, there would still have been $1.25 billion to fund.

  That’s where Guggenheim Partners comes in. They will be the major investment wing of the group, which explains why Walter will be the controlling owner.

• Bleacher Report takes a look at the 50 ugliest Baseball card photos ever.
  
• The Honus Wagner of golf collectibles is about to hit the market- it's a 1934 Masters Badge, via Tom Bartsch at Sports Collectors Daily.
  
• This is probably more interesting to the collector, but Keith Olbermann received the “Friend of the Card Stores” award last week at the Topps dealer seminar and had some encouraging words for what CBS recently said was a dying industry. Check it out below. Olbermann gets it right when he mentions the thrill a collector gets when they walk into a card shop or get a card package in the mail. It is that feeling that keeps the hobby alive. (Hat Tip: Beckett)

Video Link:

Dodgers Notes from Spring Training- Game 26

Throughout Spring Training the Dodgers PR department sends out helpful daily notes from Camelback Ranch, and I am happy to pass them along.

LOS ANGELES DODGERS (12-9-4) at San Francisco Giants (14-11-3)

Wednesday, March 28, 2012 – 1:05 p.m., Scottsdale Stadium

RHP Nathan Eovaldi vs. RHP Yusmeiro Petit

Spring Game 26/Road Game 14

Todays Starting Lineup:

Dodgers: Gwynn CF, M Ellis 2B, @jamesloney_7 1B, Fields 3B, Hairston LF, Sullivan RF, @SellBlock_12 SS, Bard C, Eovaldi RHP
Giants: Pagan CF Theriot 3B Cabrera LF Posey 1B Schierholtz RF Fontenot 2B Crawford SS Stewart C Petit RHP

Upcoming Spring Training Schedule:

(A pep talk from Tommy, via twitter @Dodgers Jon SooHoo/ LA Dodgers 2012)

• GAME ON!: The Dodgers and Giants will meet for the third and final time this spring (0-1-1) before their first regular season matchup on May 7 at Dodger Stadium. The two clubs played seven one-run games in 2011 and split the season series at nine games apiece. Opening Day in San Diego is just eight days away with the Dodgers opening their home slate on April 10 against the Pirates.

• THE BIG NEWS: Last night, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Frank McCourt announced an agreement under which Guggenheim Baseball Management LLC will acquire the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2 billion upon completion of the closing process. The purchasing group includes Mark R. Walter as its controlling partner, as well as Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Peter Guber, Stan Kasten, Bobby Patton and Todd Boehly. Mr. McCourt and certain affiliates of the purchasers will also be forming a joint venture, which will acquire the Chavez Ravine property for an additional $150 million.

• HURLERS: Right-hander Nathan Eovaldi will make his fourth start (fifth appearance) of the spring after firing 3.0 scoreless innings on Friday against the White Sox in Tucson, which lowered his ERA to 0.84 (1 ER/10.2 IP). Eovaldi has tossed 9.0 consecutive scoreless innings in his three starts after allowing one run in 1.2 innings as a reliever in his first appearance of the spring on March 5. Following the 22-year-old to the mound will be:

  ● RHP Kenley Jansen lasted pitched in a Major League game on Saturday against the Indians, striking out one and walking one in a scoreless inning of relief, and then struck out the side on Sunday in a minor league game against Royals prospects. Jansen has tossed scoreless relief in five of his six Cactus League appearances and limited opposing hitters to a .200 batting average (4-for-20) this spring.

  ● RHP Mike MacDougal needed just 12 pitches to strike out the side on Sunday against Royals minor leaguers and last appeared in a big league game on Saturday against Cleveland, surrendering two runs in 0.2 innings.

  ● RHP Todd Coffey struck out two in a scoreless inning on Sunday against Kansas City minor leaguers and kept the Indians off the board in his 1.0 inning of relief on Saturday against the Tribe in his last Major League appearance.

(Pic via Jon SooHoo/ LA Dodgers 2012)

• A TOUGH ONE: The Dodgers pounded out 15 hits, but lost, 6-5, at San Diego yesterday on a two-run walk-off double in the bottom of the ninth. Juan Rivera led the offensive charge with three hits, including a solo home run in the fourth, and Dee Gordon (2-for-4, R), Andre Ethier (2-for-4, 3B, RBI) and A.J. Ellis (2-for-3) also chipped in with multi-hit games for the Dodgers. It was a bullpen game on the mound with Scott Elbert, Javy Guerra, Scott Rice, Josh Lindblom and Logan Bawcom contributing a scoreless inning each in relief of spot starter Jamey Wright, who allowed a run in his 1.0 inning.

• A HALL OF FAME LUNCH: Dodger Hall of Fame broadcaster Jaime Jarrin will be honored at a special luncheon today at noon at The Capital Grille at the Beverly Center. The luncheon, hosted by ESPN 710’s Max Kellerman and Marcellus Wiley, is sold out and will feature Jarrin’s Chavez Ravine memories as the club celebrates the 50^th anniversary of Dodger Stadium. Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully will also attend the event.

(Pic via Jon SooHoo/ LA Dodgers 2012)

• FROM PEORIA TO PEORIA: Straight from Peoria, AZ to Peoria, IL, Charley Steiner will deliver the opening keynote address tomorrow night at the Fifth Summit on Communication and Sport hosted by his alma mater, Bradley University. The Summit runs through Friday and is intended to exchange concepts, theories and approaches to the study of communication and sport. Steiner has been active in the Bradley community following his graduation in 1971, earning an induction into the school’s Sports Hall of Fame in 1995, establishing the Charles H. Steiner Endowed Scholarship for broadcasting majors and receiving an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters and delivering mid-year commencement address at Bradley in December 2010.

• SPEE -DEE: Dee Gordon has hit safely in his last six games, batting .650 (13-for-20) with eight runs scored, one double, two triples and five steals since March 20. The 23-year-old leads NL qualifiers with a .417 batting average and 14 runs scored and ranks among the Senior Circuit’s leaders in steals (10, 2^nd), on-base percentage (.491, 2^nd), and hits (20, T-3^rd).

• MIDDLE MEN: Juan Rivera went 3-for-4 and slugged his fourth homer of the spring season yesterday, raising his batting average to .304 in 17 games. Each of the Dodgers’ starting outfielders is hitting over .300 this spring with Andre Ethier’s current eight-game hitting streak raising his team-leading batting average to .421 and Matt Kemp’s .313 mark. The trio can also be spotted among the National League leaders with Rivera tying for fourth in home runs and Ethier ranking among the leaders in doubles (8, T-1^st), total bases (36, T-2^nd), triples (3, T-1^st) and runs scored (11, T-7^th). Ethier would lead the league with his .947 slugging percentage, but does not have enough at-bats qualify.

Praise Across the Board on Twitter

I think last nights announcement that the Guggenheim/Stan Kasten/Magic Johnson group has been chosen as the winning buyers for the Dodgers was welcomed with relief and joy. Details aside (a JV partnership I'm not entirely comfortable with), having Magic as the face of the organization and Stan Kasten at the helm provides a certain sense that the right guys won.

That being said, I wondered what folks were saying on twitter. There were the obvious expressions of congratulations (@ShawnGreen15) (@SteveNash). The Magic play on words was everywhere (@Alyssa_Milano). Soon, folks were more hopeful of a brighter future (@TommyLasorda). Heck, Dee Gordon demands that it's now time for the Dodgers to shock the Baseball world (@Skinnyswag).

Of course, there were many more responses to go through. Check out some of my favorites below. Be sure to see the last one- could he be a potential bat off the bench?

• Matt Kemp expresses his approval of the new owner on twitter. With Stan Kasten
• So does Javy Guerra. Who then blames his spelling mistake on auto-correct, here.
• Steve Lyon's response on twitter was short and sweet- either that or he was left practically speechless.
• Dodgers photographer Jon SooHoo does what he does best. He shares "Something Historical" of the future owner while saying, "Congratulations!"
• And the best tweet of all comes from an unlikely source- Jose Canseco.
• 

Now I'm Dancing to Magic Johnson!

Thanks to a reminder from Cardboard Junkie I get to dance to the tunes of the Red Hot Chili Peppers as they play "Magic Johnson."

Video Link:

It's Official. Magic Shoots and Scores!

The news is out! The group headed by Magic Johnson has been chosen as the winner of the Dodgers sweepstakes.

Below is the press release with some of my brief comments:

LOS ANGELES, March 27, 2012 - The Los Angeles Dodgers and Frank McCourt today announced an agreement under which Guggenheim Baseball Management LLC (“GBM”) will acquire the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2 billion upon completion of the closing process. The purchasing group includes Mark R. Walter as its controlling partner, as well as Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Peter Guber, Stan Kasten, Bobby Patton and Todd Boehly. Mr. McCourt and certain affiliates of the purchasers will also be forming a joint venture, which will acquire the Chavez Ravine property for an additional $150 million.

What a price. $2Billion was mentioned as a possible price several weeks ago, but appeared out of reach as numerous reports over the past week pegged the actual sales value at about $1.5Billion. Now, seeing that number in print has me astonished, but not wholly unprepared.

The other key point here is that a Mark R. Walter is the Controlling Partner. Who is he? Walter is the CEO of Guggenheim Partners who are headquartered in Chicago and New York. They are a financial services firm involved in over $100Billion in investments. As controlling partner he has final say in the partnership. Essentially, he is the boss, and probably fulfills the investment management part of the job. I would consider the other names mentioned as investors who hold a certain percentage of shares in the investment group.

There's another kicker here worth mentioning. The price is actually more than $2Billion. It is $2Billion for the team and stadium plus a future joint venture between McCourt and the new ownership group. Assuming it will be a 50/50 split means that the true value is at $2.3Billion with McCourt owning a very small piece related to just the parking lots.

The Los Angeles Dodgers stated, “This transaction underscores the Debtors’ objective to maximize the value of their estate and to emerge from Chapter 11 under a successful Plan of Reorganization, under which all creditors are paid in full.”

Based on Ken Gurnick's report the deal must close by April 30th.

Frank McCourt stated, “This agreement with Guggenheim reflects both the strength and future potential of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and assures that the Dodgers will have new ownership with deep local roots, which bodes well for the Dodgers, its fans and the Los Angeles community. We are delighted that this group will continue the important work we have started in the community, fulfilling our commitment to building 50 Dream Fields and helping with the effort to cure cancer.”

Earvin "Magic" Johnson stated, "I am thrilled to be part of the historic Dodger franchise and intend to build on the fantastic foundation laid by Frank McCourt as we drive the Dodgers back to the front page of the sports section in our wonderful community of Los Angeles."

I'm not entirely thrilled with the idea that McCourt will still benefit from the Dodgers. He is a stain on the organization and his continued association with the franchise is disconcerting. I guess the devil's in the details, though. I would be very interested in knowing what the joint venture is all about.

UPDATE:

Bill Shakin reports on twitter that the joint venture for ownership of the parking lots will be controlled by Magic's group.
UPDATE II:

For further clarification from Bill Shaikin.
This news goes from good to worse. All the first tweet told us was that McCourt couldn't interfere with the parking lots for games, but is likely to have some control when it comes to redevelopment of the land. This could mean a sizable ownership stake if a Dodgers entertainment complex is built there, or a grand conspiracy to move the Dodgers to downtown by using McCourt as a future scapegoat. I know... I know. My conspiratorial mind is taking over.