2017 Bowman Baseball - The Top 100, ROY Favorites and Pipeline Cards

Following up on the Dodger base cards found in packs of 2017 Bowman Baseball, I now share the Dodgers' available in the Bowman Scouts Top 100, ROY Favorites and Talent Pipeline insert sets. Notably, former Dodgers pitching prospect (since traded to the Tampa Bay Rays) Jose De Leon is still shown as a Dodger.

Bowman Scouts Top 100

#BTP-17 Cody Bellinger           #BTP-62 Alex Verdugo

Phillies Series Starts Friday - Stadium Giveaways, Pregame Info and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts Friday evening against the Philadelphia Phillies. Below are some odds and ends for this upcoming homestand; including several Dodger appearance for Viva Los Dodgers Sunday.

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Friday, April 28th at 7:10 PM

SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Blog Kiosk: 4/28/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Corey Seager knows how to celebrate his birthday with style. Yesterday afternoon against the Giants, on his 23rd birthday, he launched his fifth home run of the young season in the first inning of the game. The knock is the 19th time in Dodger history that a player hit a round-tripper on his birthday, and the first time it's been done since Matt Kemp in 2014. As for the rest of the game, Julio Urias was impressive in his first outing of the year and the Dodgers offense finally rallied to win the game in the 10th inning. Per Chris Haft and Ken Gurnick at MLB.com:

"The way that we've sort of been inconsistent with the different facets of the game and to be one game under .500, I think we're in a good place," said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. "This was a hard-fought series. They celebrated their wins over us and to be two games down in the loss column and salvage a split, to see the life we had in the last inning, this was a big win for us."

Photo above via Justin Turner on twitter. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1900 Brooklyn Superbas outfielder Fielder Jones becomes the first modern day Dodger player to hit a grand slam. It was accomplished at Brooklyn's Washington Park. In 1982 the Dodgers traded Leo Hernandez to Baltimore for professional pinch-hitter Jose Morales. In 1985 Fernando Valenzuela set a major league record by extending his consecutive scoreless innings streak at the start of the season to 41 frames when he blanks San Diego for eight innings. The Padres would then score off Fernando in the ninth inning when Tony Gwynn hit a game winning homer to defeat the Dodgers, 1-0.
• Happy Birthday, Jim Poole!
  

2017 Bowman Baseball - The Dodgers Base and Prospect Cards

Topps Bowman Baseball card set is now officially in stores. As you know, this brand focuses on the top prospects in the game, and includes first-cards for many rising future stars. For instance, this set provides Dodger collectors with the first licensed card for right-handed pitcher Dustin May. Go here for a complete checklist. Below are all of the Dodger base and prospect base cards.

Base Cards

#2 Kenta Maeda               #50 Corey Seager

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Turner, Monday and Toles

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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This coming Friday, April 28th from  11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Dodger third baseman Justin Turner will meet and greet fans at the Spectrum Store on La Cienega. This is only a photo opportunity. No autographs will be available.

Blog Kiosk: 4/27/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Earlier today the Jackie Robinson Foundation broke ground on the Jackie Robinson Museum in New York. You can watch the ceremony here. Per Della Britton, CEO of The Jackie Robinson Foundation:

"It will tell Jackie’s story as a gifted athlete and pioneering major leaguer who sacrificed and worked to unite..."

Photo above via the Jackie Robinson Foundation on twitter. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1929 Dodger reliever Clise Dudley became the first player to hit a home run on the first major league pitch thrown to him. In 1944 Jim Tobin of the Braves no-hits the Brooklyn Dodgers in Boston, 2-0. In 1990 Orel Hershiser undergoes surgery on his pitching shoulder. In 2004 Mets Catcher Mike Piazza ties Carlton Fisk for most career round-trippers by a catcher when he hit home run #351 against Dodgers hurler Hideo Nomo at Dodger Stadium.
• Happy Birthday, Hi Myers, Frank Wurm & Corey Seager!
  

2017 Topps Now - #85 - Cody Bellinger - MLB Debut and First Hit

The second 2017 Topps Now Dodgers' card of the season is now available. Go here to check it out. It features uber-rookie prospect Cody Bellinger and celebrates both his debut and first career major league hit. On the reverse it states:

Blog Kiosk: 4/26/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Bellinger and family was all smiles after the Dodgers 2-1 victory over the Giants last night. Not only did Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers eke out a win, but highly touted prospect Cody Bellinger recorded his first hit of his major league career. Ironically, it was flubbed slow-roller off the end of his bat that was hit towards the left side of the infield -- Cody is considered one of the top rated power hitters in the minors. Per Ken Gurnick and Chris Haft at MLB.com:

"Not what I expected it to be, but I'll take it," said Bellinger, son of former Major Leaguer Clay Bellinger. "I think I'm going to give it to my mom. I think she'd enjoy it the most."

You can watch a replay of the hit here. Pay close attention to the end when the camera zooms in on the Bellinger family. The above photo via the Dodgers on twitter. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1949 the Dodgers turn the 19th triple play of its history. Gene Hermanski, Jackie Robinson and Gil Hodges perform the act in the third inning against the Boston Braves. In 2001 Dodgers GM Kevin Malone resigns after 2 1/2 years on the job. In 2008 Brad Penny throws a 98-MPH fastball that is missed by catcher Russell Martin and knocks out umpire Kerwin Danley. He is stretchered off the field. Also on this day Vin Scully received an honorary Doctor of Law degree from Pepperdine University. You can watch his commencement speech at Pepperdine here.
• Happy Birthday, Hack Wilson, Packy Rogers, Sal Maglie & Ricky Trlicek!

Welcome to the Dodgers, Cody Bellinger!

He is coming! No, he's already there.

This will be an interesting week for Dodger prospects. Not only should we be expecting to see Julio Urias in Dodger blue this week, but according to Ken Gurnick on twitter prized slugger Cody Bellinger has tagged along, as well.

Blog Kiosk: 4/25/2017 - Dodgers Link - Some Odds and Ends

I had spent much of yesterday stuck in jury duty, so I apologize for the lack of posts. That said, I don't believe that the jury is out for the Dodgers or Hyun-Jin Ryu. We are still in the middle of discovery -  to determine who these Dodgers and Ryu are this season. After all, we still have 142 games left this year and Ryu is just coming back from not pitching regularly the past two season. So, please stop with the griping and hand-wringing that I've been reading so much about.

Instead, it is best to sit back and enjoy the ride. There is no reason to be worried. It is still too early to tell. And anyone who claims otherwise is a wise-cracker who is either bored or just writing click-bait. I suspect the later.

Photo above via SportsNet LA on twitter. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1976 Cubs outfielder Rick Monday, in an act that will be remembered and celebrated throughout the country, snatched and rescued an American flag from two protesters who were in the midst of setting it on fire.
  

  "He got down on his knees and I could tell he wasn't throwing holy water on it," Monday said of one of the perpetrators. "If he's going to burn a flag, he better do it in front of somebody who doesn't appreciate it. I've visited enough veterans' hospitals and seen enough with their legs blown off defending that flag."

• Happy Birthday, Darren Holmes, Brad Clontz & JP Howell!
  

Blog Kiosk: 4/21/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Today is historically quite an inauspicious day in Dodger history. As stated below, in 1925 we laid to rest the owner of the team, Charles Ebbets. He had risen through the ranks within the club, starting as a ticket, peanut and scorecard salesman to eventual owner and president. On this day though, he was buried in Brooklyn after having had a heart attack just three days prior. At the same time, his business partner, friend and newly named team president, Ed McKeever, got pneumonia while attending Ebbets funeral services. He would die soon thereafter.

Above is a circa 1913 vintage photo of the pair taken by legendary Baseball photographer George Bain. Ignore the markings at the top. Ed McKeever stands on the left and Charles is on the far right.

Below are some links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1925 Dodgers owner Charles Ebbets is buried at Brooklyn's Greenwood Cemetery. All National League games are cancelled in observance. In a strange twist of fate, new Dodgers President Edward McKeever contracts pneumonia at the services and dies eight days later. In 1955 the Brooklyn Dodgers win the 10th consecutive game in a row to start the season -- setting a then major league record. In 1967 the Los Angeles Dodgers experienced their first ever rain-out since moving west -- a streak of 737 consecutive games played at home. In 2000 the game between the Dodgers and Reds is delayed 27 minutes. The umpires' equipment was accidentally shipped to New York, and replacement gear had to be purchased at a nearby store. Furthermore, due to heavy traffic a police escort is used.
• Happy Birthday, Bert Hogg, Stan Rojek, Jesse Orosco, Chris Donnels, Jack Taschner, Terry Tiffee & Joc Pederson!
  

It Is National High-Five Day!

By virtue of him being the first we celebrate this day in honor of former Dodger outfielder Glenn Burke.

I of course will also note Dusty Baker's participation, but that's more because he was the catalyst naturally responding to the moment. It was Burke who started it all.

Happy high-five day!

Blog Kiosk: 4/20/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Clayton Kershaw is a focused and intense beast when he's pitching, and usually this is a plus. Last night though, you have to wonder if his feelings towards the gamesmanship by Rockies starter Tyler Anderson might have boiled his blood too high. In last nights postgame press interview he said:

Yhea that was uh... that was one of the more disrespectful things I've been a part of in a game. I really didn't appreciate that.

The games start was delayed when Anderson finished his pregame warmup behind schedule and then he proceeded to nonchalantly walked back to the dugout. Kershaw, as intense as ever, had his routine knocked off balance, and as a result experienced a shaky first inning. The Rockies got their first three batters on base to load them up. Fortunately, they could only get one runner across the plate.

Now, I'm not saying that one thing absolutely lead to another, but you do have to wonder if his intensity got the better of him. Nevertheless, he was able to right the ship quickly, and lead his team to a 4-2 victory. Kershaw went seven innings with ten strike outs, one walk and only two earned runs.

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

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1999 the Dodgers surpass the 100 million mark in attendance at Dodger Stadium. In 2011 it is announced that MLB will be taking over the operations of the Dodgers due to concerns over the finances of team owner Frank McCourt. 
• Happy Birthday, Don Mattingly, Germany Smith, Pat Hannivan, Dave Bancroft, Hal Peck, Tom Hutton, Todd Hollandsworth & Ian Thomas!
  

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: A Special Manny Mota Bobble and an Angel

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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Former Angels infielder Jim Anderson will be signing autographs at the Inland Empire 66ers game against the Lake Elsinore Storm at San Manuel Stadium in San Bernardino on Thursday, April 20th. Jim will be taking photos and signing autographs. Anderson will also be throwing out the games first pitch.

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One of the cooler bobbles ever. Featured below is a limited edition Manny Mota bobblehead available through Ultimate Pastime Sports Collectibles, and this coming Saturday Manny will be in Ontario to sign it. Go here for information.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Blog Kiosk: 4/19/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Ryu wasn't terrible... Really! He wasn't. It's just that batters are teeing off his fastball and hitting homers - six of them so far this season. That's all. Per Cary Osborne at Dodger Insider:

“It’s still difficult to ignore the fact that I gave up three home runs, but looking at the pitch count and also the innings, there are definitely positive signs, and it’s definitely something I can build on,” Ryu said.

Per Ken Gurnick at MLB.com:

"We feel comfortable with him making a start every fifth day, and as he gets into the rhythm of a season, we know he'll get better," said manager Dave Roberts. "For us, the barometer for Ryu is the delivery repeating, holding velocity, which he's doing, and executing pitches. He's made some mistakes that were hit out of the ballpark. If he minimizes damage, he'll be fine."

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

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1890 the Brooklyn Bridegrooms (Dodgers) play their very first game as a member of the National League. In 1938 both Dodgers' Ernie Koy and Phillies' Heine Mueller hit home runs in their first major league at-bats. In 1956 Roy Campanella recorded his 1,000th career hit at New Jersey's Roosevelt Stadium - a tenth inning double. This was the first ever MLB game played in New Jersey. The Dodgers would play several home games here just prior to moving to Los Angeles. In 1968 Met's hurler Nolan Ryan throws an Immaculate Inning (three strikes out on nine pitches in one inning) against the Dodgers in the third inning.
• Happy Birthday, Bill Greenwood, RJ Reynolds, Brett Mayne, Jose Cruz, Dennys Reyes, George Sherrill, Joe Beimel & Alberto Callaspo!
  

Couple Fantastic Oddball Dodger Pieces at Hunt Auctions

Auction season is in full swing. Just about every major sports auction house is hosting a collectors sale and I can barely find the time to post about them all. Have no fear though, I will endeavor to share my favorites over the coming days.

For instance, check out this weird thing I spotted at Hunt's current Internet sports auction.

What the heck is this?

Blog Kiosk: 4/18/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

In honor of his debut in a Dodger uniform I made the above two fantasy baseball cards for Michael Gonzalez. As you may know, 17-year old Gonzalez signed a one-day contract with the Dodgers yesterday as part of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. You can find out more about Michael here.

The photos used above via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2017. Go here to check out more pics by Jon from yesterday game. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1925 Charles Ebbets, the Dodgers owner and president, dies of an heart attack on the morning of his teams home opener at Ebbets Field. In 1939 Red Barber announces the first ever regular season Dodger game to be broadcast in Brooklyn. In 1946 Jackie Robinson makes his debut as a second baseman for the Montreal Royals. He belts a home runs and three singles. In 1947 Burt Shotten is named the Dodgers manager - replacing Leo Durocher who was suspended by the league ten days prior. In 1950 Vin Scully calls his very first game as a Dodgers broadcaster. In 1952 Willie Mays is knocked unconscious when he runs in to the Ebbets Field outfield wall while making a game saving catch. In 1958 Los Angeles holds a downtown parade for the the Dodgers before their first home game at the Coliseum. A National League record 78,672 fans crowd the stadium to watch their new team defeat the soon-to-be-hated Giants, 6-5. In 1964 Sandy Koufax throws his second career Immaculate Inning - three strike outs on nine pitches during one inning. In 1966 Maury Wills becomes the first batter to get a hit on artificial grass - a single off of Robin Roberts at the Astrodome. In 2008 the Dodgers announce that Joe Beimel had been selected by fans to get a bobblehead.
• Happy Birthday, Hughie Hearne, Tommy McMillan, Nick Polly, Bobby Castillo, Jim Eisenreich & Brady Clark!
  

Jackie Robinson 2017 Topps Now Cards - First Dodgers Topps Now Cards of the Year

I suppose it's appropriate that the first Dodgers Topps Now card of the 2017 season celebrates the 70th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier. Check it out above and below. As you can see, there are actually two different Jackie Robinson tribute cards available. Unfortunately, the sale of the cards closed earlier this morning, so you are unable to order them right now. Have no fear though, I am sure numerous copies will be available online soon.

Blog Kiosk: 4/17/2017 - Dodgers Links - Jackie Robinson Day

Just beautiful.

Above is the Jackie Robinson statue moments after being unveiled to the public on Saturday. Per Richard Justice at MLB.com:

"I thought it captured Jackie Robinson's significance in American history," (sculptor Branly) Cadet said. "It takes courage and focus and timing to steal home. Similarly, those qualities were required of anyone breaking the color line. My title was 'Stealing home and the point of no return.'

"He was a first. We wanted to represent him in an earlier part of his career when the color line was broken. Historically, that's what was most important. The day he stepped on that baseball field was an important day, not just in baseball, but in American history. We wanted to honor that."

Photo above via Jill Weisleder/LA Dodgers 2017. Go here to check out more pics by Jill and Jon SooHoo from Jackie Robinson Day. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1934 Casey Stengel makes his managerial debut as the Dodger skipper. Brooklyn unfortunately loses to the Boston Braves, 8-7. In 1947 Jackie Robinson recorded his first major league hit -- a bunt single down the third base line off of Boston Braves hurler Glenn Elliott. In 1955 Roberto Clemente, who started out as a Dodger prospect, singles off of Dodger pitcher Johnny Podres for his first major league hit. In 1956 future Hall of Famer Don Drysdale pitched in his very first game. He threw one inning of hitless relief in the ninth inning of a losing game. In 1994 the Dodgers belted 19 runs against the hapless Pirates to tie a club record for most runs in a game. In 2013 Clayton Kershaw strikes out his 1,000th batter of his career -- the victim was Padres first baseman Yonder Alonso.
• Happy Birthday, Ad Yale, Jake Daubert, Stan Andrews, Marquis Grissom & Gary Bennett!

More Robinson Memorabilia at Jackie Robinson Foundation Auction

Following the numerous post I've put up over the past couple days, here are some more interesting memorabilia related directly to Jackie Robinson available at Goldin's current Jackie Robinson Foundation auction.

This is a rarity. Above is a Jackie Robinson game-used 1955 World Series bat. (auction link) As was custom, Hillerich & Bradsby created this series specific custom bat for Jackie to use. Below is a circa 1955-56 Brooklyn Dodger cap attributed to Jackie Robinson. (auction link)

A Wesleyan Yearbook with Branch Rickey and Charles Thomas - Where Baseball Integration First Entered Rickey's Mind

The yearbook you see above doesn't look like much, but it holds within it an important story relevant to this weekends Jackie Robinson Day. Featured above is a 1905 “Le Bijou” Ohio Wesleyan University yearbook -- the school where Dodger General Manager Branch Rickey first got the idea that Baseball should not have a color line. (auction link) Best yet, there is an fantastic team photo of the schools Baseball team that includes Rickey and a certain fellow who is the main subject of this story -- an African-American ballplayer named Charles Thomas.

Diamondbacks Series Starts on Friday - Stadium Giveaways and Other Stuff!

The next series starts on Friday against the Arizona Diamondbacks.   Below are some odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

I am considering discontinuing this series of post focused on homestand information. Unfortunately, the Dodgers will likely not be providing the same kind of detail they had in the past about each upcoming homestand. So, the below info does not include, for the most part, first pitch, pregame ceremony, Military Hero of the Game, and other interesting information.

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Friday, April 14th at 7:10 PM

Zack Greinke vs. Clayton Kershaw

SNLA / AM 570 (Eng.), KTNQ 1020 AM (Span.)

Blog Kiosk: 4/14/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Cold bats on a cold day continue to hamper the Dodgers. Yesterday, they could not muster a hit when they needed it most. They went 0-for-10 with runners in scoring position; which only added to their woes against the Cubs. Over the pasty three games they are 1-for-24 with runners in scoring position. Ironically, 1-for-24 equates to a 0.042 average -- maybe the Baseball gods are having a bit of fun with us as we enter Jackie Robinson weekend. Per Rowan Kavner at Dodger Insider:

“When you’ve got to have that hit to push a couple across, we haven’t got it yet. I know it’s not for lack of effort. Maybe a little (wanting it) too much.” — Dave Roberts

The Dodgers got blanked, 4-0. Ryu struggled through 4 2/3 inning, allowing two home runs with the wind blowing in. Per John Jackson at MLB.com:

"The velocity was a little bit down today," Roberts said. "He touched 91 [mph] but pitched at 87, 88. I thought he left a couple of fastballs out over [the plate], one to Rizzo and one to Russell. I thought the changeup was really good.

Photo at the very top via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2017. Go here to check out more pics by Jon from yesterdays game. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1931 47-year old Brooklyn Robins hurler Jack Quinn becomes the oldest pitcher to start an Opening Day game. He would lose to the Boston Braves, 7-4. In 1964 Sandy Koufax made his only Opening Day start for the Dodgers. He faced the St. Louis Cardinals and threw a six-hit shutout, 4-0. It is also his ninth career complete game without allowing a walk.
• Happy Birthday, Jack Radtke, Greg Maddux, Mike Trombley, Brad Ausmus & Carlos Perez!
  

Ed Stevens Story about Losing the 1st Base Job to Jackie Robinson

As we all know, Jackie Robinson broke the color-barrier in 1947 as a first baseman. What we don't know much about is what happened to the guy that had the position before him -- Ed Stevens. Well, thanks to the current Jackie Robinson Foundation Auction we get a glimpse at what was in Ed's head. Featured above is a typewritten letter, dated to 1995, from former Dodger first baseman Ed Stevens, and in it he expresses a bit of antipathy. Not towards Jackie, but toward Branch Rickey. (auction link)

He writes:

I was replaced in 1947 by Jackie Robinson on the Dodgers. My story's never been told on that. I sacrificed my career to make room for Jackie Robinson. I had the ballclub made. I was gonna be the regular first baseman and, 'course they had Howie Schultz over there, the basketball player, and we'd been doin' some alternating. I hit against right-handers, he hit against left-handers.

This is the platoon the Brooklyn Dodgers likely would have had that season. Stevens continues:

Mr. Rickey told me if I'd go back to Montreal and make room for Jackie Robinson and have myself a good year, that he would shake my hand in a gentleman's agreement that he would bring me back as soon as I got to hittin' good and got myself in shape - to give him a chance to get rid of Eddie Stanky, move Jackie Robinson to second base and I had a job for the next 10, 15 years, as long as my ability would allow me.

1946 Questionnaire Filled Out by Don Newcombe at Jackie Robinson Auction

Among the throngs of Jackie Robinson memorabilia available at Goldin's current auction are collectibles featuring other notable leaders and athletes. In the Jackie Robinson Foundation auction you can find items related to tennis great Arthur Ashe, Alex Haley (writer of Roots), President Lyndon Johnson, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Abraham Lincoln, Harper Lee (writer of To Kill a Mockingbird), basketball great Bill Russell and Muhammad Ali. Additionally, there is the questionnaire you see on the right that had been filled out by Dodger great Don Newcombe in 1949 -- his rookie season. (auction link)

As you know, Newk played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement. Per Lyle Spencer at MLB.com:

It was 28 days before Dr. King's assassination in 1968, and he was in the midst of peaceful protest speeches, marches and demonstrations. On his way home to Atlanta, with an evening to relax, Dr. King visited Newcombe and let him know what he, Jackie Robinson, Larry Doby and Roy Campanella had meant to the civil rights struggle.

Blog Kiosk: 4/13/2017 - Dodgers Links - Just Another Dodger Victory

So many good things happened for the Dodgers last night. To start things off, Andrew Toles belted a line-drive home run to right field (with the wind blowing in, mind you) to start the game and to give the Dodgers an immediate 1-0 lead. Per John Jackson at MLB.com:

"He threw it low and I hit it on a line, so the wind was no factor because it was so low," Toles said. "It was a line drive. The wind was definitely a factor [overall], though."

That early head start was buoyed by another fantastic start by oft-injured Brandon McCarthy. He is clearly back. Per Rowan Kavner at Dodger Insider:

“He did a really good job tonight, kept them off-balance, kept attacking them,” Grandal said. “He’s got a great sinker, obviously, it’s known around the league.”

McCarthy threw six scoreless innings, with three walks, four strike outs and just four singles. Lastly, the Dodgers relief staff continued their dominance. Ross Stripling, Luis Avilan and Kenley Jansen shut things down to earn a Dodgers victory, 2-0. BTW, let's not forget about Chase Utley's smarts. He came around to score on an error in the eight inning that was only made possible due to his hustle. The old man continues to show what he brings to the table -- intelligence, leadership and guile.

The above photo via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2017. Go here to check out more pics by Jon from yesterday game in Chicago. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1939 Yankees first baseman Lou Gehrig, during a spring game against the Dodgers, hit two homers. It would prove to be the last home runs he would ever hit. In 1954 Walter Alston makes his major league debut as the Dodgers manager. In 2009 second baseman Orlando Hudson hit for the "Cycle" against the Giants during the Dodgers home opener. He is the first Dodger to ever accomplish the feat at Dodger Stadium, and the first Dodger to do it in a nine-inning game since Gil Hodges in 1949. In 2012 Dodger starter Aaron Harang struck out nine consecutive Padre batters -- breaking the Dodgers franchise record of eight held by Johnny Podres. The Major League mark is at ten, and is held by Mets pitcher Tom Seaver in 1970.
• Happy Birthday, Kid Elberfeld, Ben Cantwell & Ed Amelung!
  

Check Out the Jackie Robinson Foundation Auction

This is a momentous week.  Saturday is the 70th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's first Major League game and to mark the occasion the Dodgers will dedicate their very first statue at Dodger Stadium in his honor.  You can see a preview of what that statue will look like on the right.

In addition, the Jackie Robinson Foundation has partnered up with Goldin Auctions to host the very first Jackie Robinson Foundation auction of rare and important memorabilia. Part of the proceeds from this sale will go directly to the foundation.

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Hershiser, Gibson and Lasorda on Saturday

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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Now this is an autograph signing for Dodger fans. This coming Saturday, Jackie Robinson Day, at the Sports Authentic store at the Puente Hills Mall, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, will be a trio of Dodger hero's from the 1988 World Series. Signing autographs will be Tommy Lasorda, Kirk Gibson and Orel Hershiser.  Go here for information. 

This is a pay signing event. Prices start at $59 for Hershiser, $79 for Gibson, and $99 for Lasorda.

I thought I would add one little note. I suspect all three of them will be at Dodger Stadium for the official dedication ceremony for the Jackie Robinson statue on that day. That ceremony is not open to the public and begins at 3:00 PM. So, I suspect that all three of them will leave promptly at 1:00 PM.

Sports Authentic store
Puente Hills Mall
South Azusa Avenue
City of Industry, CA

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

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* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Blog Kiosk: 4/12/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

A part of the famed George Michael Collection of Baseball sliding press photographs (eBay auction link), featured above is a 1952 United Press Photo of a soaring Jackie Robinson. Per the descriptor on the reverse:

Both feet in the air, Brooklyn second baseman Jackie Robinson whips the ball to Gil Hodges at first after forcing Chicago Cubs' Hank Sauer out at second in the second inning of the Ebbets Field Contest, Sept. 11. Jackie was too late for the double play. Sauer tried to advance to second on Toby Atwell's grounder.

Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1962 left-handed rookie Pete Richert made his major league debut by striking out the first six batters he faced -- tying records for strike outs in an inning (4 K's in the 3rd inning), successive strike outs by a pitcher in his major league debut, and consecutive strikeouts by a relief pitcher. 

"I had good stuff and somebody up there likes me," Richert said of his first big league game. "What I mean is that I always say a little prayer when I’m nervous and excited. And I was tonight as I started walking to the mound." 

• Happy Birthday, John Harkins, Mickey O'Neil, Walt Moryn, Vicente Romo, Paul LoDuca, Antonio Osuna & Justin Ruggiano!
  

Blog Kiosk: 4/11/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

This coming Saturday is Jackie Robinson Day at Dodger Stadium, and as you surely know by now the Dodgers will be dedicating their very first statue at the stadium in honor of Jackie that afternoon. As you can see in the pic above, work has gotten underway to install the bronze figure.  It features Robinson sliding hard into home -- likely stealing home.

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

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1959 Don Drysdale hits his second Opening Day home run to become the first pitcher with teo career homers on Opening Day. In 1962 the Dodgers won their very first game at Dodger Stadium, defeating the Reds, 6-3.
• Happy Birthday, Pop Corkhill, Al Nixon, Roy Gordinier & Kenta Maeda!
  

Blog Kiosk: 4/10/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

There are few things more picturesque than this.

Featured above is Kenta Maeda warming up within the woodsy bullpen of Colorado's ballpark before his start against the Rockies yesterday afternoon.

Photo above via Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2017.  Below are more links to check out:

(via NYT Archives on twitter)

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1947 the Dodgers officially announced, during the sixth inning of an exhibition against the Royals, that they had purchased the contract of Montreal Royals infielder Jackie Robinson.  He would be the first African-American to be on the roster of a modern Major League club. In 1962 the Dodgers played their very first home game at the newly built Dodger Stadium in Chavez Ravine.  There were 52,564 fans on-hand to watch Johnny Podres throw the first pitch to infielder Eddie Kasko -- who promptly doubled in the at-bat. Duke Snider would record the first Dodger hit with a single in the second inning.  Unfortunately, the Dodgers would lose the game to the Reds, 6-3. Reds outfielder Wally Post hit the first homer in the stadium during the seventh inning to lead Cincinnati.
• Happy Birthday, Bob McGraw, Chuck Connors, Lee Lacy, Mike Devereaux, Alberto Reyes, Andre Ethier & Charlie Culberson!
  

2017 Diamond Kings - The Dodgers Insert Cards

Here is a last look at some of the Dodgers' cards found within packs of Panini America's 2017 Diamond Kings Baseball set.  Featured below are all the non-autographed insert cards that are available.  Go here to check out all of my past post on this set.

Aurora Set

#3 Clayton Kershaw

Blog Kiosk: 4/7/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Beloved comedian and great friend of the Dodgers, Don Rickles, passed away yesterday at the age of 90.  In his honor I made the above two fantasy Baseball cards of him.  Per Rowan Kavner at Dodger Insider:

“I’ve lost and the world has lost a very dear friend,” Lasorda said in a statement. “I remember the many times he came into our locker room and had our players in stitches before a big game.”

You can watch Don Rickles insult the Dodgers in a great bit from a 1986 television show called "Rickles... On the Loose" here. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1969 Dodger reliever Bill Singer is the first major leaguer to officially be credited with a new fangled stat called the save.  It was on Opening Day in Cincinnati, and Singer pitched three scoreless innings to maintain a 3-2 victory over the Reds.  In 1977, on Opening Day, Don Sutton was directed to throw a gopher ball on the first pitch of the game to the Giants lead-off hitter Gary Thomasson.  That ball would then be given to the home plate umpire to be sent to Cooperstown.  As you might expect, the Giant batter instead hit the pitch for a home run.  He claims he had no idea about the plan (yhea, right!).  

"They told him that the first ball he threw would be sent to the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown," Lasorda said. "Well, the first ball he threw was hit by Gary Thomasson halfway up the bleachers. I said to him, ‘They wanted to send the ball to Cooperstown; they didn'’t want someone to hit it there.’" 

This is the same game Frank Sinatra kept his promise to Tommy Lasorda by performing the national anthem at Dodger Stadium.  In 1979 the Dodgers traded pitcher Rick Rhoden to the Pirates for pitcher Jerry Reuss.

• Happy Birthday, Bobby Mitchell, Brett Tomko, Ronnie Belliard & Adrian Beltre!
  

2017 Topps Tribute Baseball - The Dodgers Insert Cards

Featured below are all of the Dodger insert cards found in packs of 2017 Topps Tribute.  Go here to check out all of my past post on this set. Unfortunately, there are a ton of redemption cards in this checklist.

Tribute Autographs

• #TA-JU Julio Urias -- redemption card

#TA-CSE Corey Seager               #TA-FV Fernando Valenzuela

Blog Kiosk: 4/6/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Yasiel Puig contributed in a big way last night when he walloped his first home run of the season.  It came about in the fourth inning against Trevor Cahill, and added a bit of cushion to a Dodgers lead. You can watch him chat about his homer with Alanna Rizzo here. Per Doug Padilla at ESPN:

“My teammates are doing a great job,” Puig said. “They are all in the right [lineup] position and they have all been doing their job. They are in the position that is right for them. Now it’s my turn.”

The Dodgers defeated San Diego, 3-1. Photo at the very top via Jon SooHoo/Dodgers 2017 @Dodgers on twitter.  Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1982 the Dodgers raise their 1981 World Series banner at Dodger Stadium. In 2004 Dodger third baseman Adrian Beltre becomes the 36th player in hostory to hit 100 home runs before the age of 25.
• Happy Birthday, Red Smith, Tom Fitzsimmons, Ernie Lombardi, Dee Moore, Jim Romano, Don Elston & Phil Regan!
  

2017 Topps Gypsy Queen - The Dodgers Insert Cards

Here is a last look at Dodgers' cards found in packs of 2017 Gypsy Queen.  Below are all of the Dodger insert cards. Notably, the "Laces Around the League" inserts include MLB certified game-used baseball relic pieces. Go here to check out all of my past post on this set.

Gypsy Queen Autographs 

•  #GQA-JU Julio Urias -- redemption card

#GQA-CSE Corey Seager        #GQA-JDL Jose De Leon