My 2018 Dodgers FanFest Recap - Photos and Links

I thought I would borrow the lyrics of a famous song and mutilate it.

"Lines, Lines, Everywhere there's Lines"

It was packed that Saturday. More packed than a can of sardines in the the middle of a pallet of canned sardines. Moving around from the concourse to the field and back to the concourse was an almost impossible task. Everywhere you went you ran into a line for this or that. In fact, it was so crowded I've heard rumblings that this was the least enjoyable of all the FanFests held thus far.

Nevertheless, I am certain that an majority thought differently. Most, it seemed, were just happy to be back at "Blue Heaven on Earth," and eager for the 2018 season to begin. I know, I am. BTW, there were over 35,000 Dodgers fans at the stadium -- a new record.

As for the event itself, it was set-up almost exactly as last year -- with the exception of the stage being relocated to behind second base. In prior years it had been placed along the right field line. Also, the area behind the pavilion seats (in the parking lot area) was expanded and enlarged.

Blog Kiosk 2/6/2018 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds Ends

It's not often you see something like this on the ballfield today. Featured above is a vintage ACME press photo of a pregame ceremony at Ebbets Field in 1946. On this day the Dodger players presented their GM with a gift, and it wasn't a Timex.

Dodgers Give Present to Branch Rickey 9/25/46 -- Dodger Manager Leo Durocher, General Manager Branch Rickey and Dixie Walker (left to right). Dodgers presented a $5,100 boat cruiser to Rickey before the game with the Phillies at Ebbets Field Sept. 25. Walker, spokesman for the team, said "The Boys wanted to do something for the boss in appreciation for what he has done for us."

BTW, that $5,100 present would be worth $61,630 in today's dollars. The press photo above was on auction at RMY, but did not sell (auction link). Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 2014 the Dodgers signed a free agent minor league contract with third baseman Justin Turner.  He had just been released by the Mets, and was only given an invitation to spring training by the Dodgers.  To the surprise of many, Turner would have a breakout season and become an important leader in the clubhouse.
• Happy Birthday, Andy Sommerville, Rube Ward, Red Downey & Glenn Wright!