Jaime Jarrin is Coming Back for his 55th Season

On the heals of the announcement that Vin Scully would stay on for another season and his bobblehead night last night, we find out that Hall of Famer Jaime Jarrin has just signed a new 3 year contract that will keep him in Dodger Blue til 2015. 

From a Dodgers press release:

“I am honored to extend my career during such a thrilling time in Dodger history and under new ownership that has demonstrated a strong commitment to the Latinos in Los Angeles and in revitalizing the Dodgers throughout Latin America,” Jarrín said. “I am confident this leadership can bring a championship back to Los Angeles and I am happy to be a part of it.”

It's amazing that the Dodgers two current broadcasters (in English and Spanish) happen to both be the two longest tenured in MLB broadcasting history.

From Magic and Stan Kasten:

“Jaime is a Dodger institution and is a big reason why the Dodgers have such a strong Latino fan base,” said Dodger Owner Earvin Johnson. “The Dodgers are the only club with two Hall of Fame broadcasters on staff and I’m excited that Jaime will continue to instill a love of Dodger baseball in Spanish-speaking Angelenos.”   

“We’re committed to the Latino community in Los Angeles and knew that one of the most important things we could do right away was to ensure that Jaime would continue to lead the Spanish-language broadcast,” said Dodger President and CEO Stan Kasten. “We’re happy to have him here with us and are grateful for his insight and the foundation he laid in this community that we can now build upon.”

Many fans have wondered why the Dodgers have yet to make a bobblehead for Jaime, but something tells me that's something that will be rectified soon.  In fact, as pointed out by Dodger Bobble earlier this year there is a Jaime Jarrin bobblehead (possibly a one-of-the-kind) bouncing around somewhere.  Check out his post.  I bet that's a model for what one might look like.  For Jaime Jarrin fans, go ahead and cross your fingers in the hopes the Dodgers honor him next season, and for those more inclined to take action I would suggest emailing them directly at fanbox@ladodgers.com.

Photo credit above: Getty Images

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Some Vin Scully Videos from Last Night

Check out a couple of great videos from last night featuring Vin Scully below.

This video was shown to fans before the start of yesterdays game.

Video Link:

If you missed it, here is Vin Scully throwing out the first pitch.

Video Link:

Here is a fans perspective of last nights event.

Video Link:

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Dodgers Blog Kiosk: 8/31/2012

What a gorgeous photo of Vin Scully with a rainbow from his bobblehead night, via twitter @WHoltzman. (Hat Tip: Deadspin)

• Matt Guerrier is back from the DL; Josh Wall sent back to Albuquerque, via a Dodger Press Release.
• Tom Hoffarth at the Daily News reviews a new book about Gil Hodges and laments that the Dodgers may inadvertently be the cause for his lack of enshrinement.  Howard Cole calls that reasoning bunk.  I agree with Howard Cole on this, and I don't believe the policy of waiting for a player to be elected into the Hall of Fame before retiring their number to be a bad one.
• Ramona Shelbourne at ESPN speaks with James Loney about the trade.

"They were giving me opportunities. They just wanted production and stuff like that. It was more of 'Hey, we've got other guys we want to try and mix and match.' That's what they were trying to do, they were just mixing and matching. I understand what it is. But obviously I want to play." 

On a side note, at last nights game a video was played between innings featuring several Dodger players talking about which athlete they most would like to trade places with.  James Loney was in it and the Dodger Stadium crowd gave him a big "Boo", and I instantly became disappointed in the fans. Look, Loney may not have been the star we had hoped he'd be, but I never doubted with desire to give it his all.  He gave the effort, and at the end of the day that's all we can ask.  Unfortunately, it just didn't work out. 

• JP Hoornstra at the Daily News finds out why Vin finally OK'd his bobblehead.
• Night Owl Cards notices that a Fleer card of Jay Johnstone is not actually him.  Anyone know who it is?
• Orel at the Sons of Steve Garvey has some great photos from Vin Scully's bobblehead night.
• Stan Kasten shared a great Vin Scully moment that was captured by the LA Times.  Watch him talking about it here.
• Both Shaq and Jamaal Wilkes will have their numbers retired by the Lakers, via Kevin Ding of the OC Register on twitter.  BTW, Kareem's statue will be unveiled on November 16th.

• The Stanley Cup will be visiting six local ice rinks on Thursday, Sept. 6 to help raise money for local youth hockey programs.  Go here for information.  50 photo spots will be raffled off by each rink to the public.
• Beyond the Boxscore wonders "Just How Fast Was Cool Papa Bell?"

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Collection: House of David Vintage Baseball Postcards

The House of David will forever hold a legendary spot in Baseball history.  I remember first learning about them during Ken Burns Baseball documentary, and have been fascinated ever since.  For that reason, I have always enjoyed gathering and collecting memorabilia related to them.  Featured here are some of the Baseball related stuff I have.  Click on any pic to embiggen.  Above is a mini pennant, and below are numerous Baseball related postcards.  I am not exactly sure as to the age of these postcards.

------------------

The House of David religious community was started in 1903 in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and by 1913 they started playing Baseball.  Within a few years they formed a team and started barnstorming throughout the country to earn money for their religious order.  Easily recognizable by their long bears and hair (they also espoused vegetarianism and celibacy), they often received the largest crowds in the country and performed feats on the diamond that wowed the crowd. It it said they invented the "pepper game", and they are noted for often traveling to play against some of the best Negro League teams in existence.

From the book, House of David Baseball Team" found at Baseball Library:

The feature for which the House of David is perhaps best remembered, however, is the talented teams of bearded barnstorming baseball players that traveled to nearly every state in the Union, Mexico, and most of the Canadian Provinces. Early in the team's history, when their travels took them primarily to the east, their competition would often consist of the formidable Negro League teams: the Pittsburgh Crawfords, the Bacharach Giants, the Newark Eagles, and the Homestead Grays. Later in the 1930s, both the House of David and the City of David would barnstorm across the country with the Kansas City Monarchs. In 1939, the City of David hooked up with Satchel Paige's All Stars for over two months, playing 60 games between them.

Not all teammates were members of their religious order.  They also hired ballplayers to play for them.  Some of the more famous hired hands included Grover Cleveland Alexander, Chief Bender, Babe Didrickson, and Satchel Paige. 

The House of David also did much to help integrate the country.  When they barnstormed they would often play doubleheaders with a Negro League team (who traveled with them) as the opening bill.  Then, that evening they would dine at a local restaurant and sleep in a local hotel with the Negro League players right beside them.  It was their belief that the color of someone's skin was meaningless, and they would not allow those who traveled with them to be treated any differently then themselves.

BTW, the House of David also had a basketball team that traveled with the Harlem Globetrotters in the 1930's.  Legend states that the Globetrotters started using their theme song "Sweet Georgia Brown" as a way to compete with the House of David theme song "House of David Blues".  On the musical front, the House of David were known to be great musicians, and they had a famous jazz band that started up in 1919.  In fact, their music was more famous than their athletic endeavors.  Unfortunately, no recordings are known to exist.

Check out this great video I found on youtube about the House of David; including an interview with the last living House of David ballplayer.  Unfortunately, Lloyd Dalager died this month at the age of 99.  Check out this great biography about his playing days at the South Bend Tribune.

YouTube Link:

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Dodgers Blog Kiosk: 8/30/2012

Above is the September edition of Dodgers Magazine featuring Shane Victorino and Hanley Ramirez on the cover.

• The Dodgers are falling apart-- quite literally.  Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, Stan Kasten fears losing Billingsley for the rest of the year.

Kasten also said his fear is "not based on medical evidence," even though as CEO he has access to all medical information the club has on each of its players.

Kasten's comment came less than a week after the club gave reporters a vague description of "elbow inflammation" as the reason for Billingsley's placement on the disabled list Saturday after he underwent an MRI.

The club also said Billingsley would have a second MRI when the inflammation subsides later this week to determine the full extent of the injury.

• Kenley Jansen's heart problems have come back, via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA.  Then Mike Petriello at RotoGraphs wonders who will replace him.
• Per a Dodgers press release, Scott Elbert has been placed on the 15 day DL; Shawn Tolleson has been brought back up.
• Matt Kemp is day-to-day after crashing into the outfield wall in Colorado two days in a row, via Dylan Hernandez at the LA Times.

“I don’t know how much time,” he said. “I just know that my knee … it’s sore right now. … Hopefully, just a day. We’ll see how everything goes.”

• This homestands Dodgers playbill features Adrian Gonzalez on the cover.  See it on the right.
• Apparently, Yasiel Puig just loves to sign autographs for fans.  David's Autograph Signings shares what he got.
• BTW, Author Paul Haddad will sign copies of his book, “High Fives,” in the right field merchandise tent through the third inning at tonight's game.
• This is too cool!  A hockey game will be played inside a Roman style amphitheater that was built over 2,000 years ago in Europe.  This is like the NHL Hockey Classic to the extreme.  Puck Daddy has the story. Check out a pic of them building the ice rink and seats below.  Click on the pic to embiggen.

(twitter pic)

• Tom Bartsch at Sports Collectors Digest reports on an unusual lawsuit where a collector is suing Fausto Carmona/Roberto Hernandez for his loss in his investment in his rookies cards due to the ballplayers recent finding that he falsified his name and birth certificate.  I should start a new feature called "Frivolous Baseball Lawsuits."
• I don't know why I find this awesome, but I just do.  Via Busted Coverage we find out that a Newport Beach collector is trying to sell his life-size paintings of Shaquille O'Neal on Craigslist-- one of which depicts Shaq as Superman.  Yeah, Superman! 
• COED Magazine brings to you College Football 2012 Week 1 Preview: Cheerleader Edition.  Yowzers! 
• Upper Deck recently interviewed NHL Stanley Cup Champions Los Angeles Kings 2012 #1 draft pick Tanner Pearson during Draft Day.  Watch the video below.

Video Link:

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

It's ThinkCure! Weekend

If there is one good thing to come out of the McCourt ownership it is the creation of ThinkCure!  This charity aims to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to help fund cancer research at City of Hope and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and this weekend is one of its principle fundraising efforts.  During the games on Sunday and Monday there will be all sort of fundraising events, so be sure to check them out and give them a hand.  Also, go to their website for more information, here.

Some of the fundraising events and in-stadium activities include the following:

 

• Fans can donate to ThinkCure! by visiting www.thinkcure.org, texting the word “CURE” to 50555 for a $10 donation, or by calling into the telethon at (855) 424-4056 beginning 8 a.m. on Sunday, September 2^nd and ending after the game on September 3rd;
• An auction of Dodger memorabilia by the Dodger Dream Foundation will benefit ThinkCure!;
• A first pitch by leading cancer physicians, researchers and top fundraisers;
• Check presentations already totaling more than $200,000 will be made by key donors, including YAS Fitness Centers founder Kimberly Fowler on behalf of her annual YAS-A-THON spinning fundraiser, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Aaron Harang, and the Los Angeles Dodgers organization;
• A special "Kids Take the Field" event before each game will feature children from City of Hope and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles running on field to get the autographs from their favorite players;
• City of Hope and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles guests will announce that world famous line, "It's Time for Dodger Baseball!";
• The ThinkCure! logo will be painted on the field, and each game will feature two honorary bat kids from City of Hope and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles:
• The City of Hope bloodmobile will be taking blood donations at Viva Los Dodgers in Lot 6 on Sunday, September 2^nd, two hours before game time.

BTW, Since 2009, ThinkCure! has provided $1.84 million in research grants to City of Hope and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Collection: Shawn Green Buyback Autograph

Shawn Green has always been one of my favorite players.  He was an unassuming kid who wasn't built like a slugger, but had a swing that could propel balls into the bleachers.  True story here: I actually played against Green as a young teen.  I played ball as a kid in a Tustin youth league and recall hearing about this Shawn Green character.  Unfortunately, I do not actually recall seeing him play, but I do know that even as a kid he was spoken about as being a future MLB'er. 

Featured here is a 2001 SP Authentic Buyback insert card autographed by Shawn Green.

BTW, I was a pretty terrible ballplayer in youth leagues, but I gave it my all.  At least, all that I could.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Some Dodgers, a Hideo Gnomo Lawn Gnome and the Stanley Cup

Here are this weekends autograph opportunities and events 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.  Please email me with any tips about upcoming events in Southern California.  As the rest of the week progresses I'll update this post with other events (if there are any) as I become aware of them.  Also, I don't always list every event below, so be sure to check my Calendar.  I always try to favor free signing events over paying events.  Click on any pic to embiggen.

-------------------------

Autograph Alley at Dodger Stadium 

(outside of Dodger Stadium in the centerfield area)

Thursday, August 30th
5:10 PM - 6:30 PM
Tommy Davis

Friday, August 31th 
5:10 PM - 6:30 PM
Ken McMullen

Sunday, September 2nd
11:10 AM - 12:30 PM
Manny Mota Dennis Powell (At Viva Los Dodgers)

Wednesday, September 5th 
5:10 PM - 6:30 PM
Billy Ashley

-------------------------

Dodger reliever Brandon League will be signing free autographs at a local Staples store in Culver City on Friday, August 31st from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

Staples Store
11441 Jefferson Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 313-3658

(Hat Tip: Vin Scully is My Homeboy)

-------------------------

This is probably the coolest minor league game give-away ever.  Really, this is beyond cool. Go here for more info.  From the Blaze website. 

The Bakersfield Blaze is giving out a Hideo Gnomo lawn ornament (or is it a bobble- maybe both?). 

Souvenir Saturday #12 turns the clock forward a few years, and rumbles into a stretch of Rookies of the Year from an old affiliation with the Dodgers. Which one did we pick? The whirling dervish from Japan, Hideo Nomo! A collector's item for all ages, this sensation rocked Bakersfield before putting together a remarkable Big League career. Enjoy your lawn bobble, but get tickets early - we expect a sell-out!

Check out what it looks like below.  Only the first 500 fans get one.

(twitter link)

-------------------------

Do you want to get your pic with Lord Stanley's Cup.  well, you'll have your chance this coming Sunday, September 2nd.  Go here for more info.

The Ontario Reign, 2011-12 Pacific Division Champions and proud affiliate of the NHL’s 2012 Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings, announced they will host the Stanley Cup at Ayres Hotel and Suites Ontario Convention Center on Sunday, Sept. 2 from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Jack Ferreira, Special Assistant to the General Manager, Dean Lombardi, is sharing his day with the Cup with the Ontario Reign and their loyal fans.  The Reign’s new host hotel partner, the Ayres Hotel and Suites Ontario Convention Center will host the event in their main lobby to celebrate their new partnership.

"It is an honor to share in the celebration of the Kings' success this season," said Reign President Justin Kemp.  "We are proud to have the opportunity to bring the excitement of the Cup to our fans."

This is a FREE event and does not require a reservation or ticket.  Be sure to arrive early as there are many people expected to be at this Stanley Cup visit.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

We're All Gonna Miss You, Gary

A couple of weeks ago the father of my best friend from college passed away.  Over the past several weeks everything was looking better, but in the end his heart could not hold on.  It was a tough time for my friend.  He was there for his Dad every step of the way, and I know the father of two will be sorely missed.  As my buddy told me, "he was a good man who had accomplished all that he had hoped to during his time on earth.  In the end, he had no regrets."  That is something I'm sure we all would want to say about ourselves when our time comes to pass.

As that evening rolled on, I made sure to give my condolences and provide the kind of support only a friend of 20+ years could give.  We talked about his life, and joked in a manner only those who know us could understand. 

Which is why I feel compelled to write this post.

My friend of 20+ years turned to me and asked, "so, are ya going to write a post about a Dodgers casket?"  I, of course, looked at him strangely.  I was both shocked and bemused.  Then, we had a laugh.  Apparently, he had spoken with his uncle who asked, in what my friend described as an excited manner, if I was going to write a post about the newest trend in memorial services.  So, in honor of my friend and the sense of humor his entire family continues to hold even in these times of grief, I share with you something any die-hard would love to spend their restful days in.

(pic link)

For those more inclined to finding an urn as a final resting place check this out. As strange as it is to write this, I must say that this thing is awesome.

Unfortunately, Gary (my buddies father) was an Angels fan.  So the below Angels urn will have to do.

On a side note, we use to joke how strange that was.  You see, although I am a Dodgers fan I have resided for most of my life in Orange County.  On the other hand, my friend and his father were Angels fans, but they had lived for most of their lives in Los Angeles.  Strange stuff, eh?

BTW, we are all Kings fans.  The last time I saw Gary we rejoiced in seeing our Kings finally win the Stanley Cup.  He had a true smile of happiness about that one.  So, I like to think they won it for him.  After all, don't we all want to see our team win it at least once before we die?

So, to Gary or Dancing Bear as he was called when he was a conductor in the rail road, I send you off in the best way a Baseball and hockey fan can.  You had the opportunity to witness a championship from both your Angels and Kings, and I am grateful for that. 

(pic link)

And I want to end this post by sharing a video I recently saw that I think we all can appreciate.  In the early 80's Sesame Street tackled the subject of death in one of their episodes when Will Lee (who played Mr. Hooper) died.  It's incredibly well done and is sure to cause some tears.  Man-O-Live, Sesame Street really is one of the greatest televisions shows around.

Sesame Street - I'm Gonna Miss You, Mr. Hooper! by Wrestlegameshow
Video Link:

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Dodgers Blog Kiosk: 8/29/2012

I'm not sure if I've ever seen this before.  Above is a canvas giclee painting of Vin Scully done by Stephen Holland. I found this on eBay.  This piece is numbered to an edition of 93, but I'm sure more affordable prints can be found.

• Jon Weisman of Dodger Thoughts writes a piece for CityThink at Los Angeles Magazine called "In Praise of Vin's Voice."
• Scott Andes at Lasorda's Lair writes of his recent first meeting with Vin Scully while working the press box.  
• Matt Kemp is just fine, via Steve Dilbeck at the LA Times.
• Mike Axisa at Fangraphs writes about Nick Punto.
• Former Dodger Paul LoDuca is playing a part in the Melky Cabrera steroid investigations, per Bob Nightengale at USA Today.  (Hat Tip:Craig Calcaterra at Hardball Talk)

 The people told USA TODAY Sports that Lo Duca alleges Seth and Sam Levinson, through their firm ACES Inc., introduced him to Radomski. Lo Duca also alleges a checking account was opened for Lo Duca to pay Radomski for steroids, human growth hormone, amphetamines and sexual-enhancement drugs, according to the people. The MLB probe is part of the investigation after the failed drug test and suspension of San Francisco Giants All-Star Melky Cabrera two weeks ago.

• Per a Dodgers press release:  

Scott Elbert on the 15-day disabled list with left elbow inflammation and recalled right-handed pitcher Shawn Tolleson from Single-A Rancho Cucamonga. 

• Another major vintage Baseball card lot was found in Maine.  It goes on auction today.  Via The Morning Sentinel.

The card, found by an antiques picker from Kennebunk who asked the auction house not to identify him, is one of seven Old Judge Cigarette cabinet cards from the 1888 Boston Beaneaters that will be auctioned Wednesday by Saco River Auction. The Boston Beaneaters went on to be known as the Boston Braves and, eventually, the Atlanta Braves. 

• John Ely has been named the PCL pitcher of the year, via @Dodgers on twitter.  Right now, I prefer to see him over Harang and Capuano.

(twitter link)

• A 1914 Babe Ruth Minor League Rookie card just sold in a private for $575,000.00, via Sports Collectors Daily.  That's a huge price for a card in PSA 2 (good) condition.  I wonder what a Near-Mint example would sell for.  Heck, does one even exist?
• Alan Kleinberger at Sports Collectors Digest writes about his day at The National.

I’m not sure how you would define “enthusiastic.” I’m also not sure how you’d define “crazy.” I had back surgery a little more than two weeks before this year’s National, held in Baltimore Aug. 1-5. So when I got up at 4 a.m. to catch a commuter train to New York’s Penn Station, where I would catch the 6:05 a.m. Amtrak to Baltimore, I was wearing a neck brace. Yeah, I say enthusiastic. My wife and more sane people would say crazy. Not the first time I was called that, and probably not the last.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Card of the Week: 1951 Bowman Paul Richards

This is probably one of the goofiest vintage drawings on a Baseball card ever made. Featured is former White Sox manager Paul Richards giving his best "outstretched-neck" rooster impression on a 1951 Bowman Baseball card. 

When I first saw this I couldn't figure out how an artist could fail so badly as to find this drawing acceptable.  That giant neck doesn't look natural.  Well, as luck would have it I ran into a photo of Paul Richards just a few years older (when he managed Baltimore) than this card that explains it.  Richards seemed to have a really long neck.  Check out that photo below.

(Photo via Wikipedia Commons)

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Hunt Auctions: A Branch Rickey Letter and a Bill Gallo Dodgers Cartoon

Here are a couple of Dodgers related memorabilia items currently available for sale through Hunt Auctions.  This auction closes in about a week. 

I consider Branch Rickey to be the greatest visionary to ever be involved in Baseball.  It was he who is credited with engineering Jackie Robinson's breaking of the color barrier in Baseball, and it was he who developed the modern minor league farm system.  Rickey had changed the game in ways no one else every had- or ever will.

Below is a 1945 letter from Rickey to former Dodger Eddie Stanky.  It is on Brooklyn Dodger letterhead and plainly refers to Stanky's contract dollars for the upcoming season.  Stanky was paid $5,500.00; which is worth about $66,000 in todays dollars.

(auction link)

Below is a great editorial cartoon drawn by former NY Daily News cartoonist Bill Gallo.  It features former Dodger manager Chuck Dressen being flicked by a giant hand, and includes the words: "They Shoulda Not -- Let Go Dressen!"  It is dated to 1954.

(auction link)

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

The Limited Edition Vin Scully Bobblehead Speaks to You

Okay.  I am now officially envious.

Earlier this month, during the Sandy Koufax bobblehead game, I shared that there were two different bobbleheads being given out that day.  See that story here.  There was the normal one we all knew about and a limited edition version of Sandy in his iconic pose holding 4 Baseballs signifying his 4 no-hitters.

Now, I discovered through an eBay search that there is also a limited edition Vin Scully bobblehead, and I want it bad.  See that auction here.  At the time of this posting with a little over a day left it is already up to $265.00.  A bit too pricey if you ask me.

See photos of the bobble above and below.

As you've noticed.  It looks exactly like the normal bobblehead, but has an added twist.  See the wires and plastic switch contraption on the back?

Well, this limited edition Vin Scully bobblehead has a recording player that plays Vin Scully call of Kirk Gibson's 1988 World Series home run.

I kid you not!  This bobblehead talks.  The seller helpfully provides a video of the bobblehead in action.  Watch it below.  It's likely that once the auction is over the video below will disappear so act quick and watch it now.



Notice how the seller touches the Baseball on Vin's right to get it talking.  This bobblehead couldn't be cooler.

Here are some more pics of this bobblehead.

BTW, these limited edition bobbleheads are numbered to just 3,000.  According to the seller they were available through some special Dodger Stadium ticket package.  I am not entirely sure which one the seller speaks of, but I wish I knew the Dodgers were doing this.  I would have jumped on it immediately.  UPDATE:  The Sons of Steve Garvey on twitter sheds some light on the ticket program by providing a link to it.  I was completely oblivious to this.

(eBay link)

(eBay link)

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Dodgers Blog Kiosk: 8/28/2012

I too thank James Loney.  Pic via twitter @Dodgers.

• Jbox at the Padres blog Gaslamp Ball affirms that they could never root for the Dodgers- even if Adrian Gonzalez is on the team.  He shares a couple of videos; including an interview with Adrian.
• Tom Verducci at Sports Illustrated shares who he thinks are the winners and losers of the Big Trade.
• Chris Jaffe at Hardball Times marks the 10th Anniversary of Odalis Perez's Big Day.

10 years ago today, Odalis Perez had quite a day for himself. A decade ago, he barely needed his teammates to win a game – which is nice because they barely helped him.

• Jonah Keri at Grantland writes, "The Dodgers Make it Rain."

The Dodgers don't give a rat's ass about supposedly smart versus supposedly dumb ways to build a roster. They're perfectly cool with losing the dollars-per-WAR championship. And if actions and words are any indications, they don't care about any damn luxury tax either. They want to win, they have money, and they're going to spend it.

• I guess extension talks with Clayton Kershaw will begin soon.  Via Aaron Gleeman at Hardball Talk we get this choice quote from a Dylan Hernandez article.

Yeah, sure, I’m always open to talks. I’ve had a great time here. I love the guys and I love everything about L.A. I’ll be here for two more years regardless. There’s no deadline or anything, so that’s good.

• Check out this fantasy card.  Things Done to Cards creates a Tony Micelli (Tony Danza) Baseball card.  It's awesome!
• Kevin Kaduk at Big League Stew mentions that the Dodgers were also after CC Sabathia and Mark Tiexeira.
• Howard Cole shares another page from his vintage Dodgers scrapbook.
• The Other Paper makes note of a great play made during the Little League World Series.
• Vintage Sportscards shares some old Japanese Menko cards he got at The National.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Collection: Clear Path to Greatness Russell Martin Autograph

There was once a time when Russell Martin's path to greatness was crystal clear.  Now, that luster has largely faded.  Gone are the days of witnessing the rise of a potential batting stud.   He could hit for power, and was sure to be a consistent .280 hitter.  Heck, he even stole some bases and had good defensive skills behind the plate.  Surely, he would lead our team to victory.

Unfortunately, it would not be.  There would be no joy behind the plate.  In the end, Russell Martin was allowed to leave the Dodgers through free agency, and I don't think many fans gave a hoot. 

Featured here is a 2006 Upper Deck Future Stars "Clear Path to Greatness" Signature card of Russell Martin.  It is made of clear acetate, so it is slightly transparent. 

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

More Vintage Comic Baseball Postcards

Here is another grouping of vintage comic Baseball postcards in my collection.  Check out other postcards I've shared here, here and here.

This group of postcards were produced from the 1910's to 1920- based on postmarks on the reverse.  As you can see, I have 6 different postcards from the set.  From my understanding, there are a total of 10 different available.  Beyond that, I do not know much more about the set. 

This is the last of the older postcards that I have of the couples/flirting variety.  Next, I'll share some more traditional looking Baseball postcards that are much more desirable and a little tougher to find.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

My Excitement is Only Surpassed by Vin Scully Dancing

I don't know if there is much more I can write about this.  All I know is that this gif is awesome.  It comes originally from redditor @jimmyhalpert23.

Does anyone have a clue as to where this comes from? 

I really want to know.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

A Vintage Brooklyn Dodgers Pillow

In the Park Collectibles is running an auction and it includes this great vintage Brooklyn Dodgers throw pillow.  It has some great Baseball scenes on it, as well as a look at the Brooklyn Bridge.  I don't know if this originally sold like this, or a homemade item made from vintage fabric.  What I do know is that it's very cool.

(Auction Link)

(Auction Link)

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Dodgers Blog Kiosk: 8/27/2012

Here is Andre Ethier's Baseball from his LA Dodger record tying 9th consecutive hit, pic via twitter @Dodgers.

• Josh Beckett just started a new twitter account @beck19bb.  Go ahead and follow him.
• Peter Abraham at Boston.com, "Bad Contracts, But Not Bad People".

That is not true. It was ridding the team of three bad contracts, not necessarily bad people.

That is particularly true of Crawford. There was not one player on the roster — not one — who worked harder at getting better than Crawford. He came with only the best intentions, he was a good teammate and he did everything asked of him without complaint.

• Emma puts together a great James Loney Appreciation Post.  Check it out.
• Bill Shaikin of the LA Times writes "Stan Kasten on Dodgers' Spending Limit: I Haven't Found it Yet."

If the Dodgers can add $260 million to their payroll in one trade -- and close to a half-billion dollars in four months -- is there a limit to their spending?

"Somewhere, I suppose," Chairman Mark Walter said Saturday.

And where might that limit be?

"I haven't found it yet," President Stan Kasten said. "I'll let you know when we get there."

• JP Hoornstra at the Daily News has some notes and quotes from Vin Scully's press conference.

"I don't know. That's in God's hands. It's certainly not in my hands. When I say day to day, I firmly and truly believe that. I thank Him for every day. I know my mom thanked Him for every day that she had ... She was inspirational.

• Via Covers.com, the bookmakers now rate the Dodgers as 8/1 favorites to win the World Series.
• The Wall Street Journal analyzes the big trade and its implications for the game.
• Check out the 10 best uses of classical music in classic cartoons, via Listverse.
• Here is a great video put together by the Royal Army- a kind of LA Kings fan club- from LA Kings Night at Dodger Stadium this past Friday.

Video Link:

Then, they share a nearly 12 minute video featuring a Kings themed firework show at Dodger Stadium.

Video Link:

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Yeah! Vin's Coming Back!

What a great week to be a Dodgers fan.  The best news just came down the pike, and it's got nothing to do with a new addition to the team.  Instead, it's about having the opportunity to enjoy the artistry of the greatest broadcaster in Baseball for another year.

Vin Scully will be coming back next season.  Via Bill Shaikin at the LA Times, he shares that he will come back to broadcast for his 64th consecutive year.  Go here for Shaikin's story, it's a great read.

In a year that has been so improbable, the incredible has happened.

Not Magic. Not Hanley Ramirez. Not Adrian Gonzalez. Better than all of that.

Vin Scully is coming back. The Dodgers are expected to announce Sunday that Scully will return to the Dodgers' broadcast booth next season.

Scully has been the sound of summer in Southern California for more than half a century, from transistor radios to Twitter. We are blessed to be able to pull up a chair and spend part of another year with him.

Shaikin also reveals that the Dodgers are scheduled to play some games in Yankee Stadium next year, and wonders if the Hall of Fame broadcaster will join the team there.

That would be epic.

UPDATE:  Via a Dodgers press release.

“The new ownership of the Dodgers has revitalized the city, the team, the fans and myself,” Scully said. “I am so convinced of their great purpose and leadership that I eagerly look forward to joining them in pursuit of the next Dodgers championship.”

Mark Walter, Magic Johnson and Stan Kasten also comment.

“The Dodgers are ecstatic to have Vin back with the team in 2013,” said Dodger Chairman and Owner Mark Walter. “Vin is a treasure to the Dodgers, baseball and the city of Los Angeles and having him continuing his work in the broadcast booth next season means a great deal to all of us.”

“It was a treat to be able to listen to Chick Hearn through my years with the Lakers,” said Dodger owner Earvin Johnson, “and it’s been great to be able to listen to Vin work his magic in the broadcast booth since I came to Los Angeles in 1979. Generations of Angelenos have been blessed to have these Hall of Famers in their midst.”

 “We’re thrilled to know that in our quest to heighten the fan experience at Dodger Stadium, the fan experience everywhere Vin’s voice can be heard will continue to be maximized through at least the 2013 season,” said Dodger President and CEO Stan Kasten.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Sunday Dodgers Videos: Watch the Press Conference and Magic Speaking About the Trade

The Dodgers were kind enough to share a video of the Dodger press conference where they discussed the big trade.  Don Mattingly and Ned Colletti start things off.  Then, Magic Johnson, Stan Kasten and Mark Walter come in.  I put it on youtube so you can check it out.  Watch it below.

Video Link:

MartyTimeTV speaks with Magic Johnson about the trade.

Video Link:

Ken Rosenthal at Fox speaks about the trade.

Video Link:

Oh yeah, watch Adrian Gonzalez's home run from yesterday.

Video Link:

UPDATE:
Here's some of the press conference given by Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Nick Punto after last nights game.

Video Link:

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *