2019 Topps X Vlad Jr. “The Legend” Curated Set - The Joc Pederson Card

The most recent curated set was put together with the help of Toronto super-prospect Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and it includes only one Dodger in the mix. It is of Joc Pederson and it makes note of his efforts during the 2019 All-Star Game Home Run Derby. Go here for a complete checklist.

As you'll recall. Vladimir faced off against Pete Alonso in the finals for the Derby crown, but fell just short of defeating the eventually league leader in homers. BTW, he faced off against Joc Pederson in the semifinals -- defeating him 40 to 39.

Base

Home Run Derby Moments

#9 Joc Pederson

Blog Kiosk: 12/17/2019 - Dodgers Links & News - Some Odds and Ends

Here's a play we are likely to never see again.

Charley Neal of the Dodgers retires Cubs' Dale Long at second base in the sixth inning. Long's barrel roll slows relay of ball (arrow) enough to avoid double play on Bobby Thomson's grounder to Pee Ree Reese.

BTW, Long's slide allowed a run to score on the play -- to make it 4-2 Dodgers (dated August 6, 1958) (eBay auction link). Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1999, in what would be his final Major League season, the Dodgers signed free agent hurler and legendary pitcher Orel Hershiser to a one-year $2 million contract. He would not last the year, and be released on June 27th after going 1-5 with an 13.14 ERA. Overall, Hershiser would compile a 135-107 record in 13 years as a Dodger, with an 3.12 ERA, 24 shutouts, 65 complete games, 1456 strikeouts, an 116 ERA+, a 3.28 FIP and an 39.8 WAR. In 2004 Adrián Beltré leaves the Dodgers, after spending the first seven years of his career with the club, to sign a five-year $64 million free agent contract with the Mariners.
• Happy Birthday, Josh Sborz, Bob Ojeda & Chase Utley!