2014 Leaf Metal Draft Baseball - All the Dodger Cards

After going through the entire 2014 Baseball season Leaf finally puts out a set Dodger collectors would be interested in.  Earlier this month they released their 2014 Leaf Metal Draft Baseball set, and it includes a couple of the Dodgers brightest young prospects.  Go here to see an entire checklist.

From what I can tell, only two Dodgers made the cut for Leaf.  They are Darnell Sweeney and Grant Holmes.  As you may know, Sweeney was the Dodgers 13th round pick in 2012, and has been very impressive.  Right now the infielder is playing the AFL and is hitting the cover off the ball.  BTW, the Darnell Sweeney card is his very first to be found in packs of cards.  Grant Holmes was the Dodgers 1st round pick in 2014 and recently completed his first year of professional Baseball.  He appeared to struggle a bit when he advanced from the AZL Dodgers to the Ogden Raptors, but continued striking out batters at a healthy clip.  Overall, Holmes pitched 48.1 innings, struck out 58 batters and had a 1.076 WHIP. 

Check out their cards below. As always there are numerous parallel cards available.  Here is a listing: Silver Prismatic, Blue Prismatic #/50 or less, Purple Prismatic #/25 or less, Green Prismatic #/10 or less, Red Prismatic #/5 or less, Gold Prismatic 1/1.

Base Autograph Cards

BA-DS2 Darnell Sweeney                    BA-GH1 Grant Holmes

Also available in packs are Leaf are 'Buyback' cards featuring autographs of several former Dodgers.  Check them out below.  Unfortunately, a complete checklist of available 'Buybacks' has not yet been made available by Leaf, so the listing below may not be complete.  If you are aware of more please let me know.

Leaf Memories Buyback Autographs

 1991 Leaf - John Candelaria (#/45)               1992 Leaf - Roger McDowell (#/13)

BTW, I recently won a Holmes and Candelaria cards on eBay.  So, I'll be sharing those soon.  And I'm eager to add the McDowell since he'd be so fun to write about.  He might be the biggest goofball to ever put on a Dodger uniform.

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Blog Kiosk: 10/31/2014 - Dodger Links - Adrian Gonzalez is a Master with the Glove and Logan White Wanted the Challenge

I just can't stop laughing at this photo shared by @Dodger_History on twitter. Awesome!

Below are some links to check out:

• Adrian Gonzalez has been the named the 2014 Fielding Bible Gold Glove Award winner for 1st baseman in the Major Leagues.  Check out their website with the announcement here.  The Fielding Bible Award has nothing to do with religion.  Instead, it features 10 sabermetrically geared journalist and bloggers voting on the best defensive infielders in the game.  Here is what they said about Gonzalez:

“Adrian Gonzalez has been the best defensive first baseman in baseball over the last six seasons but somehow he has never won a Fielding Bible Award. Until now. Gonzalez wins his first Fielding Bible Award, leading all of baseball's first basemen by saving 11 runs defensively for the Dodgers in 2014. That brings his six-year total to 62 runs saved, 12 more than Albert Pujols’ second-place total of 50. Every aspect of Gonzalez's defensive game is superb. He fields his position well, does a great job with difficult throws, and handles bunts and double plays with the best of them. But he's not flashy. Just consistently excellent.”

• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Kershaw, Puig lead as Dodgers grab 15 GIBBY noms."
• Simply awesome!  Mark Langill at Dodger Insider writes, "Vintage Vin."  He shares a new memorabilia find from Gary Cypres' collection and it's a doozy.  Check it out.
• I don't know if this is something I want to know right now.  Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Dodgers co-favorites to win 2015 World Series." 
• Via TheThinGwynn at Gaslamp Ball, "Logan White says he would not have left Dodgers for any other job."

"I couldn't pass it up," White said on Wednesday. "Andrew was such a class act through all of this. As I told him, with the timing, in a different time and a different place, I think that we would have worked great together. And I have so much respect for [Dodgers president and CEO] Stan Kasten. I would not have left the Dodgers for any other job.

So in other words, it came down to Logan wanting to tackle a new challenge.

• Via Bill Plunkett at the OC Register, "Former Dodgers up for Hall of Fame review."  A special committee will look at the candidacy of Maury Wills and Gil Hodges.  Wills is being considered for the first time.  BTW, I almost feel like they should just stop doing this because seeing Hodges get slighted again is just torture.  The Baseball Hall of Fame has a story on this with biographical information on everybody that you can check out here.
• Via JP Hoornstra at Inside the Dodgers, "Hanley Ramirez headlines list of Dodgers’ free agents."
• Dodger Blues puts it all into perspective.  Doh!

That's 3 championships for the Giants in 5 years. Another way to say it: Nothing but success since Ned Colletti left their organization.
— Dodger Blues (@dodgerblues) October 30, 2014

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Dan Haren to Remain a Dodger - Will Exercise 2015 Option

At least the #4 man in the Dodgers 2015 rotation is figured out, for now.  Via a tweet from OC Register reporter Bill Plunkett, we find out that starting pitcher Dan Haren has already notified the team that he will be exercising the player option in his contract.

Dan Haren has informed #Dodgers he will exercise player option in his contract for 2015. Will be back at $10m salary. 13-11, 4.02 ERA in '14
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) October 30, 2014

Haren had recently underwent arthroscopic surgery on his non-pitching shoulder a couple of weeks ago, so this news is hardly surprising.  Even with the surgery taking place on his off-shoulder you would have to think he'd have a tough time equaling the $10Mil salary. 

Overall, Dan Haren had an average season filled with moments of brilliance.  He was an innings eater (pitching 186 innings) who continued to strike out opponents at ratio that was a little better than four to one.  Haren went 13-11 with a 4.02 ERA in 32 starts. 

In two games he gave up just one hit in seven innings.  In fifteen games he gave up two earned runs or less.  To start the 2014 season he went 5-1 in eight starts and had a 2.84 ERA.  Over his last ten starts of the season, he went 5-2 with a 2.43 ERA, and had only one really bad start during that period.  Over that stretch opposing batters hit just .191 against him.  So, he finished strong.

I can't be unhappy with this development.  Dan Haren provides some veteran leadership in a position that requires him to pitch a lot of innings and provide some decent starts.  By all accounts he does just that.

In commemoration of Haren's decision to stay Blue I made the above fantasy card for him.  I used a photograph taken by Dodger photographer Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2014 during Spring Training and used the 1971 Topps Baseball card design.

Below are his career statistics, via Baseball-Reference:

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Check Out Some Great AAGPBL Press Photos at Hake's

I love vintage press photos, and there's nothing better than oddball photos of the game you love.

Shown here are pics from a lot of eleven news service 'Spielmacher Photos' of the Grand Rapids Chicks of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League available for sale at Hake's Auctions.  On Tuesday I shared some pics of some Dodger memorabilia available at this auction.  Go here to check out that post. 

Made famous when the movie 'A League of Their Own' arrived in theaters in 1992, the AAGPBL offered women's professional Baseball from 1943 to 1954 throughout the mid-West.  Games featured the ladies playing hardball on the diamond, and they proved to many that they could play the game too... And played it well... Very well. 

As for memorabilia or relics from this league, well they are basically nonexistent.  You rarely come across game-used material, and forget about game day programs and knickknacks.  If anything like that appears on the market you should expect to pay more than you might expect.

So, seeing these items here is a huge pleasure. 

Per the auction description:

c. 1940s. Includes 16 A-AGPBL team members in uniforms posing for photo on steps, six members in uniform in dugout w/hands over heart during national anthem, Connie Wisniewski pitching, center fielder and side arm pitcher Pat Keagle in close-up poses and field action shots.

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Watch a Behind the Scenes Video of the SI Photo Shoot with Kershaw and Kopitar

As you'll recall, the western region October 2014 issue of Sports Illustrated featured LA's biggest stars in both Baseball and hockey - Clayton Kershaw and Anze Kopitar.  Check out the cover above.

Now you can watch a behind the scenes video of that photo shoot at Dodger Stadium, courtesy of KingsVision.  It's from the Kings perspective, so Clayton doesn't speak.  But we do learn something I didn't know previously about him.  Apparently, Kershaw played a little bit of hockey in high school.  Who'd a thunk it?

Video Link:

BTW, I might actually start believing in that SI curse.  Not only did Clayton Kershaw have a terrible Ooctober when this issue was released, but Anze Kopitar has had a bad start to the Kings season.  In the eight games he's played so far Kopi has only recorded three points.  Furthermore, he was injured in a game this past Sunday with an undisclosed upper-body injury.  He missed the following Tuesday's game in Philadelphia that resulted in the Kings having to play one man down the whole game (due to cap related issues).  It is currently unknown when he'll return to the ice.  Oy Vie!

Hat Tip: @LAKingsPR on twitter:

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Blog Kiosk: 10/30/2014 - Dodger Links - Congrats...

There's not much to add to the photo shown above.  It is one of Dodger photographer Barney Stein's greatest pieces of work, and it unmistakably conveys the feeling of loss, pain and sorrow.  This was the picture I had stuck in my mind when I finally came to the realization that the Giants had once again taken home the crown, and that I, like Ralph Branca in the photo above and many thousands of Dodger fans today, have to accept the notion that we have to wait 'til next year.

Fortunately, I know that soon after that fateful home run some 63 years ago a Jesuit Priest was able to put Branca's mind at peace by putting it in the proper perspective, and I take solace in knowing that it applies today.  Our faith is strong enough to endure what we have to face tomorrow.  So with that, I extend my hand in congratulations to this years victors.

Congrats, Giants.  You have no doubt built a dynasty worthy of the most hallowed halls of Baseball.

All I can add at this point is thank goodness that there will be another season - unless the zombies come, in which case I'll be grabbing my red handled machete in hopes of finding that cappuccino sipping hipster lookalike Terminite up north. Oh... And thank goodness for Kings hockey.

Below are some links to check out:

• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "The consolation prize."

But strength and character are not limited to one team per season. it’s not zero-sum. That the Dodgers fell short does not mean they are empty, bereft. Their season was not without meaning. And any idea that the Dodgers couldn’t win because of such and such a person is emphatically ridiculous.

I have no doubt that if you restarted the 2014 MLB playoffs with the same participants, they would yield a different result.

The World Series is absolutely the grand prize, the holy grail. The Dodgers’ goal, from the top of the organization to the bottom, from the clubhouse to the front office, was nothing less. Elimination was, and still is, a gut punch. My acceptance of tonight’s result is simply acceptance of the hole in my stomach.

• Mike Petriello at Dodgers Digest has, "Offseason Dates To Remember."  Here is a list of important dates to remember this offseason.
• Via Adrian Garcia at Lasorda's Lair, "Logan White's Departure Is Not Insurmountable."
• Sports Card Info gives us a look at the 2014 World Series Press Pins for each club.  They are apparently selling for big bucks.
• Carson Cistulli at FanGraphs takes a look at, "The Top 55 Free Agents."
• What Derek Harvey at Brew Crew Ball says, "Kansas City Royals minor leaguer's admonishment of Yordano Ventura; Update: Apology issued."

As truly horrible parts of American history are, now one of the great things about America is that it's a melting pot of many different cultures. Major League Baseball is a tremendous example of this. You can't find a single team in the MLB that doesn't have a player who originated outside the country. I love that.

To say something like Zeb did is just so completely ignorant it's shocking.

• Via Chris Olds at Beckett.com, "Bloomberg TV talks shop with Topps."
• Via Jon Rosen at LA Kings Insider, "Once again, Darryl Sutter (the Kings coach) shows his baseball love."  Unfortunately, he's a Giants fan.  Boo!
• A great moment captured and shared on twitter by LG Patterson.

A moment tonight that no one else but me and the World Series managers witnessed. pic.twitter.com/jgsfWDjE4k
— LG Patterson (@picturelg) October 30, 2014

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Joe Maddon Was Never Going to be the Dodger Manager

Jon Heyman at CBS Sports broke some big MLB news just a moment ago.  He has reported on twitter that the Cubs will hire Joe Maddon to be their next manager.

joe maddon to become cubs manager. story up soon at @CBSSports
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) October 29, 2014

Per Heyman's story at CBS Sports:

The Cubs deny that a deal is done, but people familiar with the dealings say that it is certain to be completed in coming days, and that Maddon would indeed be the next Cubs manager.

The contract, once finalized, is expected to make Maddon one of the highest-paid managers in baseball and quite likely the best-paid in the National League. Mike Scioscia's Angels deal pays him $5 million annually, so he sets the standard.

I would expect, keeping Bud Selig's desire to keep the games focus on the World Series in mind, that any announcement will come later this week or early next.

BTW, It should come as no surprise that the Dodgers were not a part of any discussions with Maddon.  After all, the team had stated emphatically that a managerial change was not being considered and that Don Mattingly would be our skipper for the immediate future. 

When you also consider that relationships and maintaining good contacts within the upper echelons of the MLB is just as important as smarts, you come away with a better understanding that there was no way Maddon would be wearing Dodger Blue in 2015.

After all, by all accounts Andrew Friedman left Tampa Bay on the best of terms, and he would likely want to continue a positive working relationship with his former bosses and colleagues.  So, muddying the waters by going after Joe, when everyone will suspect tampering (back-stabbing, if you will), would be an unnecessary stain on the start of his leadership as President of Baseball Operations.

In other words, if he wants to succeed in his new position with the Dodgers by making certain on-field changes then he'll need not only the cooperation of folks within the franchise, but the help of other team executives to get things done.  If he burns his bridges with the Rays then it could potentially make it that much harder to find cooperative trade partners in the immediate future since his 'word' would be less trustworthy.

That's just my two cents.

UPDATE:  I think the below sentence from a story a couple of weeks ago by Tampa Bay Times reporter Marc Topkin further emphasizes the point that Maddon was likely never approached by Friedman or the Dodgers.

While principal owner Stuart Sternberg said no Rays baseball operations staffers would be joining the Dodgers, Friedman said that could change in time, but "I'm not looking to hurt the Tampa Bay Rays."

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Weekend Autograph Opportunities: DODGERFEST!

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.

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

This is the big Dodger signing event of the winter.  Frank & Sons in the City of Industry is hosting DODGERFEST this coming Saturday, and a whole bunch of former Dodger players will be there.  Check out the flyer below.  You can also go here or here for more information.  The first link for Hall of Fame sports includes prices and appearance times for all of the players.  Go here for that.  BTW, there are a handful of Baseball/sports card and memorabilia dealers at this show, so there is plenty to do. 

If you do attend I suggest getting there very early.  Parking availability at this facility is horrible... Like really horrible... Like so bad it always makes me think twice about attending events there.

Frank & Son Collectible Show
19649 E. San Jose Ave.
City of Industry, CA. 91748

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Blog Kiosk: 10/29/2014 - Dodger Links - Howard for Hodges, Tommy Davis and GO ROYALS!

Lexi knows what's up!  If she can do it twice, so can you.  This photo was shared on twitter by @MLBFanCave and came via @kc85wilson on twitter, and it's the greatest thing I've seen on twitter in a long time.  Go Royals Go!

As you know Game 7 of the World Series is tonight, and if your not paying attention to it then you're missing out.  This is the kind of event all sports fans dream of.  After 162 game season, a wild card game, two playoff league series and six games in the finals we are down to just one more game.  It's THE final game of the year and I suspect both teams will leave everything they've got on the field. 

Mike Oz at Big League Stew tells us about the "Seven of the most memorable World Series Game 7s in baseball history" that is definitely worth checking out before tonight's game.  If I had to choose the best of the seven I'd go with the Sandy Koufax's shutout against the Twins in the 1965 series - obviously. 

Below are some more links to check out:

• Nick Diunte at Baseball Happenings (and a writer for Examiner.com) shares a video where, "Frank Howard emphatically endorses Gil Hodges Hall of Fame candidacy."  You can also check out Nick's story at Examiner.com here.
• Via Cary Osborne at Dodger Insider, "Seasons: Tommy Davis’ 1962 — thou shalt not pass."  This winter they'll be taking a look back at some of the greatest individual seasons in Dodger history.

“I tell everybody I was a Bible hitter,” Davis said. “When they say, ‘What does that mean, I’d say, ‘Thou shalt not pass. The first pitch is coming, I’m swinging.’”

• Cary also tells us about the historical connections between the Dodgers and the Lakers/NBA.  I'm surprised to learn how many NBA players were once a part of the Dodger system.
• Dodger owner/partner Peter Gruber shares a video on twitter that tells us a bit about the value of player analytics to the Dodgers:

alex tamin head of #baseball research contracts & operations @dodgers explains the value of player analytics http://t.co/Vv19m0hzzq
— Peter Guber (@PeterGuber) October 28, 2014

• Topps is now getting into limited edition apparel.  They are now offering a 1988 Dodgers 'Miracle Men' Orel Hershiser patch Baseball cap limited to just 99copies for $39.99.  Check it out here.  See a pic of it on the right.  Limited edition patch caps also exist for Reggie Jackson, Alan Trammel, Willie Stargell, Gary Carter, Rollie Fingers and Ryne Sandberg.
• I've got mad respect for Blazer's Edge.  (Hat Tip via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA)
• Via Joe Posnanski at NBC Sports, "Vanguard after the Revolution: Bill James sparked a baseball insurrection, but he has regrets about the world he wrought." 

He groans whenever he hears people discount leadership or team chemistry or heart because they cannot find such things in the data. He has done this himself in the past … and regrets it.

“I have to take my share of responsibility for promoting skepticism about things that I didn’t understand as well as I might have,” he says. “What I would say NOW is that skepticism should be directed at things that are actually untrue rather than things that are difficult to measure.

“Leadership is one player having an effect on his teammates. There is nothing about that that should invite skepticism. People have an effect on one another in every area of life. … We all affect another’s work. You just can’t really measure that in an individual-accounting framework.”

• BTW, for the third season in a row Anaheim Angels slugger Mike Trout won the 2014 Stan Musial Award from the Baseball Bloggers Alliance.  In the National League Clayton Kershaw won the award.  The Stan Musial Award recognizes the MVP in each league. I had picked Kershaw on my National League ballot.  Go here to see who were my picks for the BBA (Baseball Bloggers Alliance) Post Season Awards.

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Take a Look at Some Vintage Dodger Goodies at Hake's Auctions

Hunt's isn't the only auction house running a big auction right now.  Hake's Americana & Collectibles has just opened up their 213th major auction this week and it includes some great vintage Dodger memorabilia.  Here are some of my favorites.

Below is a pinback you just don't see very often.  Here is a circa 1940's-50's Montreal Royals pin (designated PM10) complete with ribbons and a white celluloid ball charm.  As you know, the Royals were the Brooklyn Dodgers main farm club and the place where Jackie Robinson got his start within the Dodger franchise.

(Auction Link)

Speaking of Jackie Robinson, below is a vintage press photo, circa 1945, of him in a Kansas City Monarchs uniform.  This is an original Sporting News photograph. 

(Auction Link)

The below grouping of vintage photographs is absolutely incredible, and I would do almost anything to have a chance to get a closer look at them all.  This auction item includes 50 different 5"x7" original Brooklyn Superbas photographs from ”Spooner & Wells, Inc. Photographers” out of New York City.  They date from 1908 to 1910 and feature some great background shots of old stadiums; including the Dodgers old home at Washington Park II.

Of all the photos they share in the auction listing I most fascinated with two photos showing a haphazardly-looking wooden fence in the background shown directly below.  Where could those photos possibly have been taken?  I would really love to know.

(Auction Link)

(Auction Link)

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So, Why Did Logan White Leave?

Logan White leaving for the southern pastures of San Diego sure has been a shock to the system.  He had been a wizard in the scouting front office and a legend in the minds of prospect-minded Dodger fans.  So, his departure has been seen as a huge loss for the franchise. 

As I'm sure most had hoped (myself included), the combination of the Dodgers newest hire Andrew Friendman and Logan White working together appeared to be a fantastic 1-2 punch.  After all, continuity within the Dodger ranks was a major theme for Friendman during his recent press conference and one would think that this meant he wanted to retain the experience and know-how of a person like Logan White.

Unfortunately, it takes two to tango and we are left wondering what drove Logan away. 

Was it a potentially diminishing role within the club?  Did Logan find the prospect of a two headed dragon at the scouting helm unappealing?  Was the talk of continuity by Friendman just a smoke screen, and he was actually pushed out?  Or did Logan just want to experience something different - a new challenge maybe?

Only Logan White knows the true answer.  Thankfully, though, through the wonder of twitter we get a slight glimpse at his frame of mind from some established reporters.  Check out what has been shared online since White's announced departure yesterday.  

Dodger Talk host David Vassegh spoke with White and shared that personal relationships within the Padres franchise was a motivating factor:

Just spoke to Logan White...He said biggest reason he left for SD was relationship w/mentor Don Welke and friendship w/GM AJ Preller (cont)
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) October 28, 2014

This sentiment was echoed by OC Register reporter Bill Plunkett:

Talked to Logan White. Said move was about SD opportunity, relationships with Preller/Welke not concern over #Dodgers role under Friedman.
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) October 28, 2014

In fact, Plunkett goes further by commenting that a change in role with the Dodgers was not a major concern. 

White said Friedman had assured him he would have role in restructured #Dodgers front office (though that role might have changed)
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) October 28, 2014

And that both Freidman and Kasten had been stand-up throughout this process, via David Vassegh on twitter:

Welke is now VP of scouting ops for SD. He knew AJ when he worked for LAD..Logan also said Friedman and Kasten treated him "very classy"
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) October 28, 2014

Eric Stephen at True Blue LA on twitter likely got to the gist of the matter.  Logan would have an expanding role with the Padres:

Padres say Logan White will oversee "organization’s professional scouting efforts & player acquisition at the Major & minor league level"
— Eric Stephen (@truebluela) October 27, 2014

While at the same time, Andrew Friendman would have an opportunity to build the club without his interference.  As Bill Plunkett noted, Friedman will now have a chance to make a huge mark on the Dodgers.

Andrew Friedman now has chance to remake #Dodgers front office his way with 3 hires -- GM, scouting director, player development director
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) October 28, 2014

Ultimately, I guess it was too much to believe that the dream team of White/Friedman could last.  They would eventually butt heads (if they hadn't already), and I'm sure Logan understood that his capacity to exert influence had naturally diminished.  This was Andrew Friedman's team now and he had every right to lead it in the direction that he saw fit.  For better or worse, the Dodgers are no longer the club that existed just a couple of years ago.  They are reborn and all we can do is hope that these changes to the front office lead to success in the future.

Pic at the very top via Ben Platt/LA Dodgers - June 2006

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Blog Kiosk: 10/28/2014 - Dodger Links - Some Odds and Ends

On this date in 1981 the Dodgers defeated the NY Yankees in Game 6 of the World Series.  They won their 5th franchise championship.  Above is a photo of their celebration, via @Dodgers_History on twitter.  As you can see, Steve Howe was on the mound to earn his first save of the series and his only playoff save of his career.  Also shown is eventual World Series co-MVP's Pedro Guerrero and Steve Yeager.  Along with third baseman Ron Cey and outfielder Pedro Guerrero they represented an offensive triumvirate that powered the Dodgers to victory.  BTW, this was the first time ever (and only time) three players were named co-MVP's for a World Series.

Below are some links to check out:

• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Corey Seager an AFL Fall-Star."

Seager has been named to the West Division roster for the Arizona Fall League Fall Stars Game

• Jarred Massey at Dodgers Nation pens an, "Open Letter To Logan White, Who Left A Lasting Impression."
• Via Dustin Nosler at Dodgers Digest, "Reminder: Logan White was good at his job while with the Dodgers."

I understand that since 2008, the Dodgers’ drafts haven’t produced much in the way of even decent players, but with White’s responsibilities as AGM and McCourt’s refusal to put money into player development and scouting, there was only so much he could do. It’s no coincidence that since 2012 (you know, when Guggenheim took over), the Dodgers have been exceedingly active in the international market and have drafted some players with high ceilings — the way it used to be when White first started with the Dodgers.

• Via Eric Stephen at True Blue LA, "Arizona Fall League Week 3: Darnell Sweeney on fire."
• Congratulations to 1,000,000 hits Night Owl Cards.  Check out his most recent post, here.
• Check out who might be available this winter.  Via Mike Petriello at Dodgers Digest, "Get To Know This Year’s Foreign Imports: Korea."

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A Vintage Brooklyn Squeak Toy - Rempel's HoJo the Dodger 'Bum'

I can finally say that I've got HoJo the Brooklyn Dodger 'Bum' in my collection.

Featured here is a circa 1940's-1950's plastic squeak toy manufactured by Rempel Manufacturing, Inc.  The company was founded in 1946 by Dietrich Gustav Rempel, a Russian immigrant, and was based in Akron, Ohio.  As you may have noticed in the photo below, the name Fred G. Reinert is imprinted on the reverse of the toy.  Reinert was the artist who designed the toy for Rempel Manufacturing.

This specific toy was named 'HoJo' - as indicated on its original packaging (not shown here).  From what I understand, Rempel did not specifically make this squeak toy for the Dodgers and its fans (it was not a licensed toy), but fans identified with it for obvious reasons.  As you may know, the Brooklyn faithful called the the Dodgers their 'Bums,' and the classic 'Bum' image was further marketed by the artwork of newspaper sports cartoonist Willard Mullin.

BTW, Rempel also made a very un-PC plastic squeak toy of an Indian (Native American) that looks a lot like Cleveland's Chief Wahoo.  That toy was also not made specifically for Cleveland fans, but has been closely identified with the club for the same reason as the 'HoJo' toy. 

The 'HoJo' toy was produced over a number of years and variations exist in both color and reverse stampings.  Unfortunately, I do not have a clue as to what colors or markings are more scarce.  So, if you have some insight into that please let me know.  My 'HoJo' toy is wearing a black tuxedo jacket with white vest.  A 'HoJo' in green pants with a yellow vest also exist.

These toys can range in values depending on condition and rarity.  I purchased my 'HoJo' for the rock-bottom price of $22 delivered - which ain't too bad considering its condition.  Much cleaner versions can sell for a couple hundred dollars, or more if included with the original packaging.

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Some Dodger Art at Hunt Auctions - Koufax, Drysdale and Fazzino's 'Ebbets Field of Dreams'

Hunt Auctions is going to have a very busy November.  Not only are they running their regular internet/phone auction (that I feature in this post), but they also have their 11th Annual Live Auction at Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory concluding in November.  I'll talk a bit about the Louisville Slugger Museum later this week.  For now, let's take a look at some interesting Dodger artwork available through their internet/phone auction.

Below are a couple of 'folk-art' handmade marionettes of Dodger players.  They are 15" tall.  Who made them and when they were made is not known.  All I do know is that it's unique and would look great in a vintage Dodger display case.  Check out the auction here.

(Auction Link)

Below are a couple of hand-painted baseball by an artist named Gary Guerra.  I am not familiar with Mr. Guerra, but he does some great work.  As you can see he borrows a style reminiscent of legendary Baseball 'folk-artist' George Sosnak and artist Monty Sheldon.  Below is a Sandy Koufax ball.

(Auction Link)

And here is a Don Drysdale ball.

(Auction Link)

This is fantastic.  American pop artist Charles Fazzino created this 3-D piece entitled 'Ebbets Field of Dreams.'  It is a silkscreen serigraph, measures 16" x 11" (27" x 23" framed) and is numbered "86/400DX".  Check out the auction here.  You can also check out his website here.  Fazzino also has a piece for Dodger Stadium called 'Go Dodger Blue' that is worth checking out.

(Auction Link)

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Blog Kiosk: 10/27/2014 - Dodger Links - Logan White is Leaving Dodgers

Stay tuned.  Puig recently announced on his instagram that newly created Puig signature caps will be soon available on his website.  His website is here.

Below are some links to check out:

• RIP, Oscar Tavares.  Via Charlie Wilmoth at MLB Trade Rumors, "Oscar Taveras Dies In Car Accident" in the Dominican Republic.  Tarvares was a top prospect within the Cardinals organization.
• Via Mike Petriello at Dodgers Digest, "Can The Dodgers Even Sell Low On Andre Ethier?"

One way or another, a Dodger outfielder is moving. Maybe it’s Van Slyke, though that wouldn’t really free up much room. Maybe it’s Puig in some kind of massive deal, though that seems unlikely. Kemp’s second-half surge probably keeps him in the heart of the lineup. Carl Crawford could go, though he’s only mildly more valuable than Ethier is. Most likely, Ethier is going in a deal that sees the Dodgers A) eat 90% of his contract B) take on someone else’s problem or C) both.

• No!  Via Jon Heyman of CBS Sports on twitter, Scouting Director Logan White is leaving the Dodgers.

Logan White, well-respected dodgers scouting director who picked Kershaw, Kemp and the others, is taking job with Padres.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) October 27, 2014

• Old friend alert!  Former Dodger infielder Justin Sellers is now a Pirate, via @Pirates on twitter.
• Dodger pitching prospect Danny Coulombe recently celebrated an Avengers birthday, via his twitter.  Happy Birthday, Danny!

Thank you to my beautiful wife (of one week), Lauren Coulombe, for the Avengers birthday breakfast! pic.twitter.com/KomHeh1LVG
— Danny Coulombe (@DPCoulombe) October 26, 2014

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Templates for Halloween Carving Dodger Fans

With Halloween less than a week away there's no better time than now to get your carving on.  The Dodgers helpfully provide some templates on their website, here.  Below are pics of those plus a couple of more from previous years to help you make the best jack-o'-lantern's on your block.  Click on any pic to embiggen and a .pdf download link is provided in the caption.

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Blog Kiosk: 10/25/2014 - Dodger Links - Ryu, Seager and Joe Maddon

Even during the offseason Hyun-Jin Ryu can't live without Juan Uribe.  Check out the above photograph I had originally seen on Reddit (via r/freischein) of Ryu taking in a ballgame at Jamshil Stadium in Seoul, Korea.  As you can see, Ryu is wearing a Uribe signature cap, and it is glorious.  These BFF's can't stand being apart, and I fully expect to see a photo of Uribe wearing a Ryu signature item very soon.

As I look more closely I am immediately struck by Ryu's expression.  He is obviously not liking something, and I wonder what it is.  I'd like to think a rancid smell has engulfed his space and that he suspects the gentleman on his right is the rude culprit.  On the other hand, maybe the thought of losing Don Mattingly as his coach really bothers him.  I dunno.

BTW, does anybody know where I can get one of these Juan Uribe lids?  I must have one.

Below are some links to check out:

• Via Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider, "Jimmy Sheckard, the Yasiel Puig of 1901 (sort of, but just enough to make the headline work)."
• Via Jim Callis at MLB.com, "Shortstop Seager leads Los Angeles' talented crop of prospects playing for Glendale."

"When I struggled, that was the first time I ever struggled, so I had to really figure out myself," Seager said. "It helped me understand what I need to do to continue my success and continue not to hit those low patches all the time. When I do hit them, I know how to fix them."

• On the day we find out that highly sought after manager Joe Maddon has left the Rays a statement was released by Andrew Friedman via Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times on twitter:

Andrew Friedman: Don Mattingly will manage the #Dodgers next season. Joe Maddon's availability won't change that.
— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) October 24, 2014

• Via LAKingsPR on twitter, here is a pic of the recently completed engraving of the Stanley Cup with the 2013-2014 Champion LA LA Kings:

Engraved 2014 Champion @LAKings on #StanleyCup – “All done, but the ring not on the cup” - thanks @HockeyHallFame ... pic.twitter.com/yCsimJ2AHx
— LAKingsPR (@LAKingsPR) October 24, 2014

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2014 Topps Update Baseball - The Dodger Relic & Autograph Cards

Last, but certainly not least, I take a look at all of the Dodger relic and autograph cards found in 2014 Topps Update.  Go here to find all of my posts related to this set, or here for a complete checklist of the set.  Click on any pic to embiggen.

All Star Stitches

#ASR-CKE Clayton Kershaw                 #ASR-DG Dee Gordon

#ASR-YP Yasiel Puig

Tom Artiaga - "You Are a True Blue Hero"

If you haven't heard this story then here's you chance to catch up. 

Several days ago a video went viral that showed a Dodger-cap wearing good Samaritan running into a burning house in Fresno to save a life.   He went in like the Flash and came out with an older gentleman in tow.  It was an incredible act of selfless bravery.

The hero is a man named Tom Artiaga and he visited with Jimmy Kimmel last night.  Also on-hand was Dodger legend Tommy Lasorda to extends his thanks and to invite him to throw out a first pitch next season.  Watch the video below. 

Video Link:

Pic at the very top via @Dodgers on twitter.

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Blog Kiosk: 10/24/2014 - Dodger Links - Some Odds and Ends

Last night Tommy Lasorda visited with Jimmy Kimmel and had an opportunity to meet with Taylor Swift, as evidenced by the photo above tweeted by @TommyLasorda.

Below are some links to check out:

• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Report: Bundy to return as third-base coach."
• Just more stuff to add to his mantel.  Via Jesse Spector at The Sporting News, "Clayton Kershaw edges Mike Trout for Sporting News Player of the Year."

Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw is the Sporting News MLB Player of the Year for 2014, as selected by a panel of  244 major league players. Kershaw beat Angels superstar Mike Trout by just three votes.
...
“It’s awesome,” Kershaw said of the honor. “It really is cool to have that respect from other guys in the league. That’s a huge compliment. For my peers to give that to me, that’s awesome.”

• Via Bill Plunkett of the OC Register on twitter, four Dodgers are finalist for a Gold Glove:

#Dodgers 1B Adrian Gonzalez, 3B Juan Uribe, Ps Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke finalists for Rawlings Gold Glove awards at their positions
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) October 23, 2014

• Ron Cervenka at Think Blue LA shares his choices for "Top three greatest Dodger moments of 2014."  I think I have to agree.  Although, I may have gone with a different order.  Still, it's definitely a great group of highlights.
• Via Eric Stephen of True Blue LA on twitter, Dodger prospect/reliever Danny Coulombe has been very busy:

Busy week for Dodgers LHP @DPCoulombe: married Sun, pitched Tue (w/Josh Byrnes watching), now off AFL roster (hopefully enjoying honeymoon)
— Eric Stephen (@truebluela) October 23, 2014

• Via Kevin Nelson at Sports Collectors Digest, "Operation Bullpen Endures, Public Fascination Continues."  I would be very interested in seeing a movie about the largest fraud ever perpetrated in the sports memorabilia hobby.
• Buster Olney of ESPN tells us a bit about Andrew Friedman's contract on twitter:

Not surprisingly, Andrew Friedman's deal with the Dodgers is record-setting: from sources, $35 million over 5 years, plus incentives.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) October 24, 2014

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