Blog Kiosk: 12/30/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Happy Birthday, Sandy!

Above is a 1967 vintage press photo of Koufax sitting in the broadcast booth for NBC.  As you know, he was a broadcaster for a short time after retiring from the game.  (eBay Auction Link)  I am unsure where exactly the photo was taken, but clearly it's not Dodger Stadium -- those terrace seats are all wrong.  The reverse of the photo makes some indication that this pic is from the 1967 All-Star Game in Anaheim:

National League trainer Bill Buhler had a special visit Tuesday -- Sandy Koufax, who made Buhler's method of ice packing pitching arms famous.

Koufax tossed only words on television in the 15-inning All-Star classic.  But Buhler, the Los Angeles Dodger and form St. Paul Saint trainer, was still working with pitching arms.

Of note, the reverse of the photo has a small news snippet attached stating:

Below are more links to check out:

• Happy Birthday, Jose Morales & Sandy Koufax!

I've Got a Vin Scully Sweatband

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

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

Don't remember it?

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

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

Below are more links to check out:

• Happy Birthday, Hank DeBerry & Devon White!

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016 Leaf Metal Draft - All the Dodgers Cards

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

Base Autographs

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

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

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

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

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

Below are more links to check out:

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

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

Dashing and Debonair.

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

Below are more links to check out:

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

2016 Bowman's Best Baseball - All the Dodgers Cards

Officially released yesterday, below is a look at all the Dodgers cards found in packs of Topps 2016 Bowman's Best.  Go here for a complete checklist.

Base

#24 Julio Urias                                     #25 Corey Seager

Blog Kiosk: 12/22/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

It looks like Maury Wills is about to steal a base with Ernie Banks holding him on.

Featured above is a vintage, circa 1960's, Kodachrome 35mm Slide Transparency of in-game action between the Dodgers and Cubs.  (Auction Link Here)  Unfortunately, it is not dated but we do know it was taken at Wrigley Field, and by the looks of it Maury is about to steal one of the 29 bases he stole in Chicago throughout his career.  The photo was taken by noted Chicago area freelance photographer Lee Balterman.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 2001 the Dodgers traded a couple of minor leaguers for outfielder and future manager Dave Roberts. 
• Happy Birthday, Buster Burrell, Tex Erwin, Al Ferrara, Steve Garvey & Ken Landreaux!

2016 Topps Dynasty Baseball - The Dodgers Cards

I am now finally getting around to sharing pics of all the various Dodger cards I've been able to gather on Topps 2016 Dynasty Baseball card set.  Go here for a complete checklist.  As you may know, there are six Dodger players featured in the "Autograph Patch" base set, and each player has a varying number of different cards available.  For instance, There are least eight different Adrian Gonzalez cards available; whereas, Julio Urias appears to have only five different cards in the set.  I've done my best to gather pics of them all, but I am still missing a handful of cards to make this listing complete. Check out what I've put together so far below.

Autograph Patches

#AP-AG2 Adrian Gonzalez          #AP-AG4 Adrian Gonzalez 

Blog Kiosk: 12/21/2016 - Dodgers Links - Alvarez, De Leon, and Sandy Koufax

This old man looked like he could still pitch.

Featured above is a look at a circa 1970's original color transparency of a greyer Sandy Koufax playing catch at Vero Beach.  (Auction Link Here)  As you know, he was retired by this time, so he was likely visiting folks at Dodgertown.  I am unsure if this is from one of his spring trips to school the youngsters or from some other event.  Nevertheless, he sure does look like he could have gotten on the mound to play some ball.  Best yet, his black stirrups are fantastic.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1989 the Dodgers signed both Hubie Brooks and Mike Maddux as free agents.  In 2001 the Dodgers signed free agent pitcher Hideo Nomo - he had been traded by the Dodgers in 1998. 
• Happy Birthday, Howie Reed & Roger McDowell!

Blog Kiosk: 12/20/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

I realize that the photo above has nothing to do with Baseball or even specifically the Dodgers, but it was taken at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn.  Featured above is an in-action composite photograph of an vivacious and energetic Marilyn Monroe kicking a soccer ball to open an international friendly between the Israeli team and an American All-Star squad, dated May 13, 1957.  (Auction Link Here)  As you can see in the AP press wire photo, Marilyn strikes the ball with all the gusto of a pro.  BTW, this photo recently sold on eBay for $412.00.  Wow!

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1989 the Dodgers traded Mike Marshall and Alejandro Peno to the Mets for infielder Juan Samuel.  In 2005 thew Dodgers signed free agent outfielder Kenny Loften.
• Happy Birthday, Fred Merkle & Snooks Dowd!

2016 Elite Extra Edition Baseball - All the Dodgers Cards

Here is a look at all the Dodger cards found in packs of Panini's 2016 Elite Extra Edition Baseball card set.  Go here for a complete checklist. 

This set was released last week and focuses solely on top prospects from throughout the minor leagues, college and the Team USA Baseball team.  So, it's likely there are a few more Dodger players in this set who are still playing prep ball.  In the meantime, we have the Dodgers 2016 first round pick (Gavin Lux) and several other high-flying prospects to chase after. 

#20 Gavin Lux                                        #32 Will Smith

Blog Kiosk: 12/19/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Kenta Maeda is incognito.  

Over the weekend we were greeted with a fun video from Japanese television featuring Dodgers pitcher Kenta Maeda goofing on a bunch of little league aged ballplayers.  He dressed up as an old man and played some ball.  Watch the entire segment at the very bottom.  (Hat Tip: Joseph Kim on twitter)

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 2005 the Dodgers signed free agent shortstop Rafael Furcal to a three year/$39 million contract and Nomar Garciaparra to a one year/$6 million contract.  In 2014 the Dodgers traded for free agent shortstop Jimmy Rollins in exchange for Tom Windle and Zach Eflin. 
• Happy Birthday, Welcome Gaston, Wally Gilbert, Rex Barney, Geoff Zahn & Mike Fetters!

Blog Kiosk: 12/16/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

(AGon in Dubai, via his twitter)

Once again, the Dodgers prove that they are willing and able to spread the gospel of Baseball to far off places.  This weekend, both Adrian Gonzalez and Dave Roberts are in Dubai visiting the Dubai Little League.  They will inaugurate the Emirates Airline Dubai Little League Park, hold a players clinic, sign autographs and watch a friendly match between the Dubai Dodgers and another local club.  Per an Emirates press release:

John Fekete, President of the Dubai Little League commented: “The objective of the Dubai Little League is teach our 500 players the fundamentals of baseball and foster a team environment that gives them the opportunity practice good sportsmanship and we have no better partners than the Los Angeles Dodgers and Emirates Airline to help us achieve these goals. We are thrilled that our youth will have the opportunity to enhance their skills through the mentorship of some of the most respected players in Major League Baseball and we are looking forward to more visits from the Los Angeles Dodgers.”

Photo above via @Dodgers on twitter.  Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1990 the Dodgers signed free agent infielder Juan Samuel.  In 2007 the Dodgers signed Japanese free agent pitcher Hiroki Kuroda to a three year/$35.3 million contract.  In 2014 the Dodgers signed free agent pitcher Brandon McCarthy to a four year/$48 million contract.  In 2015 the Dodgers received Micah Johnson, Frankie Montas and Trayce Thompson in exchange for Brandon Dixon, Jose Peraza and Scott Schebler in a three way trade with the Reds and White Sox.
• Happy Birthday, Paul DePodesta, Pete Hotaling & Sammy Strang!

2016 Topps Dynasty Baseball - Kershaw's "On This Day" Autographed Patch Card

I've always been a bit dismissive of cards with a relic or game-used uniform pieces inserted within them.  Sure, they look cool sometimes, but how do you know if the uniform piece is real?  Fakes are unfortunately everywhere, and recent news detailing the FBI's continued prosecution of the scammers only emboldens my view that this stuff isn't worth the premium they sell for.

Then, Baseball started their MLB Authentication program, and suddenly fans/collectors had a means of receiving and verifying the legitimacy of various memorabilia items.  Soon thereafter, Topps joined the train and started to include MLB Authentication stickers on several of their higher-end cards.  Suddenly, doubt no longer is an issue, and I find myself singing a different tune.

Blog Kiosk: 12/15/2016 - Dodgers Links - Diaz, Buehler, Stripling and the Dodgers Holiday Party

The Dodgers and its foundation hosted more than 300 kids from local area schools at their annual Children’s Holiday Party at Dodger Stadium yesterday.  Players and alumni in attendance included Joc Pederson, Al Ferrera, Kenny Landreux and Dennis Powell.  Kids in attendance were greeted with Santa, lunch, a snow sled track, photos, toys and more.

Photos above of Pederson, Santa and some kids are via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2016.  Go here to check out more pics bu Jon from yesterdays party.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1968 Dodgers GM Al Campanis traded his own son, Jim Campanis, to the KC Royals.  In 1987 the Dodgers signed free agent outfielder Mike Davis to a contract.  He would eventually become a hero for taking a walk and stealing a base ahead of World Series hero Kirk Gibson.  In 2004 the Dodgers signed free agent second baseman Jeff Kent to a three year $21 million contract.  In 2009 the Dodgers trade Juan Pierre to the White Sox for two players to be named later - John Ely and Jon Link. 
• Happy Birthday, Aaron Miles & Doug Rau!

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Mike Singletary and the Dodger Holiday Sale

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.

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Football great Mike Singletary will be signing autographs at Sports Authentics in the Puente Hills Mall.  Go here for more information.

Sports Authentics
Puente Hills Mall 
1600 South Azusa Avenue, Suite 518
City of Industry, CA 91748626.581.2016

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This coming Saturday will also be the last 2016 Dodger Holiday Sales Event of the year at the "Top of the Park" store at Dodger Stadium.  It will include merchandise discounts, player autographs, photo ops and more.  Go here for more information.  Unfortunately, a player signing schedule is not available yet, so stay tuned.  I'll be sure to update this post once it has been announced. 

Saturday, December 17
Autograph Schedule

10:00am-12:00pm: Derrel Thomas
12:00pm-2:00pm: Kenny Landreaux
2:00pm-4:00pm: TBD

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Blog Kiosk: 12/14/2016 - Dodgers Links - Holt, Anderson and Jansen's Wedding

I am not sure if I've ever seen what the scoreboard looked like during Dodger games at the LA Coliseum.  So, when I came across the above pic I knew I had to make note of it.  Featured above is the Dodgers scoreboard from Game 5 of the 1959 World Series.  (eBay Auction Link)

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1954 the Dodgers signed amateur free agent Sandy Koufax to a contract - a $6,000 salary and $14,000 bonus.  This made Sandy a "bonus baby" (having a bonus over $4,000) and required the Dodgers to keep him on the Major League roster for two years.  As a result, the Dodgers would option Tommy Lasorda to the Montreal Royals.  In 1990 the Dodgers signed free agent outfielder Brett Butler to a four-year $13 million contract.
• Happy Birthday, John Anderson, Charlie Hargreaves, Chris Heisey & Bill Buckner!

Thanks for Staying Blue, Justin Turner!

Oh, boy!  What a way to start a week.

Just when you thought the Dodgers flubbed the winter meetings they go ahead and make some waves.  It only goes to show you that all you need is a little patience.

It appears this past weekend was a turning point for two Dodger free agents, and I can't help but think that a little private gathering in Curaçao had something to do with it.  As you likely know, free agent reliever Kenley Jansen got hitched over the weekend, and among the Dodgers' in attendance was fellow free agent Justin Tuner (as evidenced by the photo tweeted by Turner on right). Now, both of them are expected to stay in Los Angeles.

As you know, we got news that Kenley Jansen had inked a five year/$80 million contract to stay in Los Angeles on Monday - although, still unconfirmed.  Then, almost immediately afterward, rumors spread that the Dodgers had also agreed to basic terms with Justin Turner, most noticeably via a tweet by Ken Rosenthal (btw, Jon Heyman tweets similar numbers):

Blog Kiosk: 12/13/2016 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Few photos tell a story like the one seen above.  Featured is Jackie Robinson with David Campanella, son of Roy, and a young lad named Larry Solomon (possibly the photographers son) at the "Seated Lincoln" memorial statue at the Essex County Courthouse in Newark, NJ. (eBay Auction Link) This photo provides a poignant look at the the man who broke the color barrier in Baseball paying homage at a statue that celebrates the man who helped free the country.  Per the description on the reverse:

Making the eighth annual pilgrimage to the statue of Abraham Lincoln, 9-year-old Larry Solomon places a wreath of flowers in the arms of the Great Emancipator.  Looking on are Brooklyn Dodger star Jackie Robinson and David Campanella, son of Dodger catcher, Roy Campanella.  Thousands of persons were flocking to the cemetery in Springfield, IL, and other Lincoln shrines to pay tribute to him on the 142nd anniversary of his birth, Feb. 12, 1951.

BTW, the pic was taken by Harlem based photographer Chick Solomon for ACME.  Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodger History:  In 1956 the Dodgers tried to do the unthinkable.  They announced the trade that would send legendary second baseman Jackie Robinson to the hated NY Giants for pitcher Dick Littlefield and $35,000. It would be voided the next day.  Jackie would then announce his retirement from the game a few weeks later.  In 2001 the Dodgers received Cesar Izturis and Paul Quantril in a trade with Toronto for Chad Ricketts and Luke Prokopec.  In 2003 the Dodgers traded Kevin Brown to the Yankees for pitchers Yhency Brazoban and Jeff Weaver.  In 2005 the Dodgers signed free agent veteran catcher Sandy Alomar.  Also, they traded troubled outfielder Milton Bradley and Antonio Perez to the A's for Andre Ethier on the same day.
• Happy Birthday, Nate Oliver, Ricky Nolasco, George Shuba, Carl Erskine & Billy Loes!

2016 Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects - All the Dodgers Cards

Last week saw the release of Topps 2016 Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects set, and as always it's filled with a bunch of Dodger farmhands; including first licensed cards for Gavin Lux, DJ Peters, Will Smith and Jordan Sheffield (although, Sheffield does have several Team USA cards).  Go here to check out a complete checklist.  Below are all of the Dodger cards that can be found in packs.

Base

#BD-67 Gavin Lux

Thanks for Staying Blue, Kenley Jansen!

Dodger fans can finally rejoice.  Per various reports, particularly a tweet by Jim Bowden, the Dodgers have apparently agreed to terms with free agent closer and the teams all-time saves leader Kenley Jansen to a long-term deal.

Jansen and Dodgers agree on 5yr $80m deal according to Dodgers source confirmed.

— Jim Bowden (@JimBowden_ESPN) December 12, 2016

It is thought, after getting married over this past weekend in Curaçao, that he'll be able to come to Los Angels this week to finalize the details.  Per Andy McCullough at the LA Times:

When the Dodgers left the Winter Meetings last week, a sense of pessimism pervaded their negotiations with closer Kenley Jansen. He was reportedly weighing a five-year, $80-million offer from Miami, and it was unclear if the Dodgers would match it.

The weekend provided an answer. The Dodgers have reached an agreement with Jansen on those same terms, according to people familiar with the situation. The people requested anonymity because the contract was not finalized.

Obviously, this has yet to be confirmed; nevertheless, I'm gonna celebrate anyway.  In honor of his soon-to-be signing I made the above two fantasy Baseball cards of him.  At the very top is a 1956 Topps Baseball card design with a photograph originally taken by Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2015.  On the above right is a 1952 Topps card design with another pic by Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2016.

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

Duke Snider gives in to the paparazzi and finally shows them some leg.  Featured above is a vintage 1955 International News press photo of "The Duke" sharing his knee warp after Game 6 of the World Series.  (eBay Auction Link) Per the descriptor on the reverse:

Dodgers' Duke of Swat, Duke Snider, shows his bandaged knee top press photographers in the Dodger dressing room after the sixth World Series game today which the Yankees took 5-1 to even the series 3-3.  Snider told reporters: "It's my left knee that's hurt, the one I pivot on, but I'll play tomorrow of it doesn't stiffen up."  Snider twisted the knee chasing a Skowron fly and left the game after the third inning.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1941 the Dodgers traded for soon to be Hall of Famer Arky Vaughan with the Pirates in exchange for Pete Coscarart, Luke Hamlin, Babe Phelps and Jimmy Wasdell.  In 1998 the Dodgers signed free agent starting pitcher Kevin Brown to a seven year $105 million contract.  In 2012 the Dodgers received Skip Schumaker in a trade with the Cardinals -- sending Jake Lemmerman to St. Louis in return.
• Happy Birthday, Phenomenal Smith, Derrell Griffith & Orlando Hudson!

Welcome Back to the Blue, Alanna Rizzo!

We received word earlier this morning that the Dodgers have re-signed a trusted and important friend to Dodger fans everywhere (at least to fans who can watch the team on television).  Announced today, via a tweet from Alanna Rizzo, was the formal re-signing of Mrs. Rizzo to the Dodgers/SportsNet LA broadcasting team.

2016 Topps Transcendent - All the Dodgers Cards

The most expensive set/box of cards ever produced has now officially been released.  It is called 2016 Topps Transcendent and it features pure Baseball card gluttony.  With a suggested retail price of $25,000 per suitcase (as seen above), but available directly from Topps at $22,000 each (link here), it includes 55 limited edition autographed cards (three of which through a redemption -- including Corey Seager), a couple of unique complete sets, a "1 of 1" sketch card, and an exclusive invitation to a Topps 65th Anniversary Celebration in Las Vegas with NL MVP Kris Bryant.  Go here for more information.  Only 65 suitcases are available.  Also, check out this Blowout Buzz post featuring a suitcase/box break of this product (link here).

The jewel of this set is clearly the Vin Scully card.  This is Scully's 3rd autographed Topps Baseball card released this year.  Below are pics of the Dodger autographed cards that have been shared so far.  As stated above, Corey Seager is available only through a redemption card.  Also, it appears that there are two different Kenta Maeda autographed cards. 

Transcendent Collection Autographs

• #TCA-CS Corey Seager  -- via redemption card

#TCA-CK Clayton Kershaw

Blog Kiosk: 12/9/2016 - Dodgers Links - Valentine, Urias, Turner and Sandy Koufax

Once upon a time, Sandy Koufax moonlighted as an actor.  He wasn't a particularly good one, mind you, but he did get quite a few Hollywood roles; especially after leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a World Series Championship in 1959. Heck, he and many of his teammates suddenly became the toast of the town, and producers quickly came knocking on their doors.

(Koufax with Dorothy Provine)

Featured above is a vintage 1959 ABC promotional photograph that shows Sandy playing a cavalry officer named Johnny in the TV western Colt .45. (eBay Auction Link)  Koufax had a short scene in the episode, titled "Impasse", that resulted in his untimely death.  Jeff Katz, the Mayor of Cooperstown and lover of Baseball, writes on his blog:

Not a very lengthy role, Koufax dies in the opening scene, before the TV critics could get a handle on his acting chops. The quick-witted Koufax gave his own review, “I’ve gone out quicker in some games.” True before 1960, not so true after. The Brooklyn-born lefty was willing to give acting a go. Cognizant that it was his ball playing skills providing him with small screen opportunity, Sandy thought these small chances could lead to more. “I don’t know if I have any acting talent, but if anybody wants to take a chance it’s O.K. with me. If there’s a career for me in acting, fine. I want to go as far as my capabilities will carry me. At 23, I’ve got to think about what I’m going to do after leaving baseball.” He couldn’t imagine that day would come so quickly. For his role as Johnny, credited to “Sanford Koufax,” he was pleased that he didn’t “have to ride a horse, just die.”

On the right is another publicity photo that shows him with actress Dorothy Provine.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1981 the traded Jack Perconte and Rick Sutcliffe to the Indians for Jack Fimple, Jorge Orta and Larry White.  In 1992 the Dodgers signed free agent closer Todd Worrell.  In 2012 the Dodgers signed Hyun-Jin Ryu to a six-year, $36 million contract.
• Happy Birthday, Joe Kelley, Enos Kirkpatrick, Juan Samuel, Mat Latos & Eric Stults!

Blog Kiosk: 12/8/2016 - Dodgers Links - Ellis, Kershaw and the Handsome Dave Roberts

I guess you never get football out of your system.

Featured above is a fantastic AP press/publicity photograph that features Jackie Robinson in the midst of being tackled by two college gridiron all-stars.  (eBay Auction Link)  This photo was taken on August 15, 1949 at a BBWAA get-together in Bear Mountain, NY.  Per the descriptor on the reverse:

Note that Jackie, a guest at the outing, is wearing a slipper on his left foot injured in a recent game.  The footballers, Goble Bryant (left), Army, and Scott Emerson, Navy, are members of the Eastern College All-Star Team which is training at Bear Mountain for their tilt with the New York Giants at the Polo Grounds in New York, Sept. 1.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1947 the Dodgers made a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates that netted them Billy Cox, Gene Mauch and Preacher Rowe for Hal Gregg, Vic Lombardi and Dixie Walker.
• Happy Birthday, Alan Foster, Jolbert Cabrera & Reed Johnson!

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Austin Barnes and the Dodger Holiday Sale

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.

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Dodgers backup catcher/utilityman Austin Barnes will be signing autographs at Sports Authentics in the Puente Hills Mall.  Go here for more information.

Sports Authentics
Puente Hills Mall 
1600 S. Azusa Ave. 
City of Industry, CA 91748

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This coming Saturday will also be the 2016 Dodger Holiday Sales Event at the "Top of the Park" store at Dodger Stadium.  It will include merchandise discounts, player autographs, photo ops and more.  Go here for more information.  Unfortunately, a player signing schedule is not available yet, so stay tuned.  I'll be sure to update this post once it has been announced.  (FYI, last week Mickey Hatcher, Lee Lacy and Kenny Landreaux signed)

UPDATE:  Here is the autograph schedule for this weekend:

Matt Luke: 10:00am-12:00pm
Derrel Thomas: 12:00pm-2:00pm
Lee Lacy: 2:00pm-4:00pm

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Blog Kiosk: 12/7/2016 - Dodgers Links - Haren, Hill, and Roberts on Maeda

Not only did the Dodgers feature the first African-American position player to play in the Majors, but they also introduced the first African-American pitcher to enter a Major League game.  Featured above is a vintage AP Wire Photo, currently available for sale at RMY Auctions (Link Here), that shows a clapping Jackie Robinson (on the right) providing on-field encouragement to trailblazing pitcher Dan Bankhead as he enters a MLB game for the first time.  It is dated to August 26, 1947.

As you may know, his debut did not go exactly as planned.  Bankhead would enter the game in relief of starter Hal Gregg -- who had been shelled for six runs in the one inning he pitched (after not getting an out in the second inning) against the Pirates at Ebbets Field.  So, Pittsburgh bats were hot, and looking to make it a laugher.  Unfortunately for Bankhead that's exactly what they did.  Over the next 3 1/3 innings Dan gave up eight earned runs on ten hits; including hitting batter Wally Westlake with a wicked curve -- an act that some thought might provoke a fight.  On the positive side, Dan Bankhead did hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the second inning in his very first Major League at-bat.  Per Rory Costello at the SABR Biography Project:

After the game, Bankhead told pioneer black sportswriter Sam Lacy, “I think I’ll be okay as soon as this newness wears off. Today it seemed like I was wearing a new glove, new shoes, new hat, everything seemed tight.”

Below are more links to check:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 2013 the Dodgers signed free agent reliever Brian Wilson. 
• Happy Birthday, Tom Lovett, Ryan Theriot & Yasiel Puig!