A Final Reflection

REFLECTIONS OF BLUE CLOSES SHOP

A little over one year ago my friends and I started Reflections of Blue with no particular mission statement in mind other than our common admiration (ok, outright obsession) for the Los Angeles Dodgers. From that admiration grew an online destination where both euphoria and excruciating agony mirrored the daily journey that was, if nothing else, an emotional season of Dodger baseball. However, after an almost incredible year, it is time to hang up the cleats. There were never any goals laid out, so while I can't say we succeeded or failed in achieving any aspirations I can say we sure had a helluva good time.

When the site was started a year ago I never could have imagined the countless hours of research and effort needed in attempts to keep the site relevant. Even after posting I often found similar topics covered more thoroughly, and with greater resound, at other Dodger destinations throughout the web. It wasn’t demoralizing per say, but the internal pressure to elevate the content was felt on a consistent basis. That in itself is not the primary reason I have chosen to retire the site, but it's something that has frequented my thoughts over the past two months. I do feel however, that things did click at various points along the way as I found my little “Dodger diary” getting linked more frequently as the season wore on. The guys at True Blue LA and Sons of Steve Garvey were instrumental in making that happen, and for that I politely bow and pass along a humble thank you.

The original idea for Reflections of Blue was imagined after learning about a scrapbook of the 1962 Dodgers that my father kept while growing up in nearby Ventura. (For those unaware the 1962 squad tallied 101 wins in the inaugural season at Dodger Stadium; however, a 3-10 finish forced a three game playoff with the Giants for the National League pennant. If you’ve learned anything from being a Dodger fan over the years I don’t have to tell you how that series played out.) If nothing else, Reflections of Blue carried a sense of personal recollection, and my father’s mementos were the chief inspiration behind that theme. The newspaper clippings, pastel portrait giveaways, and ticket stubs included in that childhood collage were incredible links to the past, and I hope that one day the posts and images that appeared here will allow me to fondly recall the events that transpired as I was captivated by the boys in Blue on a nightly basis.

I can honestly say I've never followed an individual season closer, and never cheered louder for any team, in any sport, as I did for the 2009 Los Angeles Dodgers. However, much like my father’s scrapbook chronicles, the season has come and gone, and now feels like the appropriate time to step back and watch the 2010 season develop from afar. I bid adieu with the uncertainty of the future looming largely in the forefront, but also with the eternal hope of the distant Brooklyn Dodger faithful cry, “wait till next year" echoing constantly in the background.

Fitting

It sure seems gloomy around Dodgertown right now. So what better time to pass on a link to a recent article over at Big League Stew detailing "The 10 Worst Baseball Contracts of the 2000s," where the Dodgers have three players in the top five.

Andruw Jones and Jason Schmidt were truly awful, but author Jeff Passan really turns the screws on Darren Dreifort and Kevin Malone...

Dreifort is a combination of every malady above. An unnecessarily long and expensive contract. Horrid underachievement. Awful performance. He outschmidts Schmidt in cost per win ($6.1 million), outhamptons Hampton in injuries (two missed years, two partial years and a relief season) and outdoes everybody in baseball over the last decade.

It wasn't merely his five-tool ineptitude that sealed the title. No, the Dodgers — easily the most generous gifter of garbage contracts — somehow thought it was a good idea to give an $11 million-a-year deal to a 29-year-old who had a surgically repaired elbow and was coming off a season in which he allowed 31 home runs and walked 87 hitters. It was Dreifort's best season as a starter, by the way, and his ERA was 4.16. In Dodger Stadium. To know that of the three things a pitcher truly, indubitably controls — home runs, walks and strikeouts — Dreifort was terrible in two categories should have told the Dodgers: run. Run! RUN!!!

They didn't. They saw the Rockies' offer of six years and $60 million (!) and upped the per-annum value. At the time, this wasn't seen as a huge blunder, either. Dodgers GM Kevin Malone told Sports Illustrated: "You could say that Darren's contract shows that pitching in baseball is at the point where you don't need to show consistent performance to get a big, long-term payout. That's not healthy. But you could also say the contract shows we're an organization willing to take a chance to give our fans a winner. That's healthy. If Darren does what we believe he can do — give us 220 innings, start 32 or 33 games, win half of them — we're looking at a bargain."

Dreifort did throw 200-plus innings — over the life of the contract. Exactly 205 2/3. And he almost started 30-something games. Hey, 26 is close. And ... well, that's why Malone, at last check, was selling cars.

Dreifort retired after his contract expired and, even out of baseball, can't shake the injuries. His body betrayed him, making Dreifort's 95-mph fastball and power sinker and slider afterthoughts. His career is defined not by what he did but what he didn't — and by a simple legal document with the number $55,000,000 and his signature at the bottom.

The highlight of Dreifort's career, at least from my perspective, was on August 8th, 2000 when Dreifort hit two home runs in route to his twelve victory of the season. My Dad and I were in attendance for that game. Who knew we'd be seeing the pinnacle moment of the "worst contract of the 2000s."

Somewhere Logan White Just Ordered Another Drink

By now you've read elsewhere that the Dodgers have opted against offering salary arbitration to Orlando Hudson and Randy Wolf. While the Orlando Hudson option carried its own pros and cons the decision to pass on Randy Wolf sorta feels like paying a super high house insurance premium, waking up to find your house has been vandalized, and then opting not to recoup something from the situation from the insurance company. In this case it's the Dodgers that have been burglarized a valuable starting pitcher, and opted to pass on the insurance draft picks out of fear that the premium might go up once the claim gets filed.

It was simple really, and that's what makes this so confusing. The Dodgers found themselves at a crossroads, and were faced with three paths:

1. Offer arbitration, Randy Wolf accepts, Dodgers get a solid pitcher for one season.

2. Offer arbitration, Randy Wolf declines, Dodgers get two draft picks as compensation.

3. Do nothing, watch Randy Wolf walk away, end up with nothing but memories.

Well, thanks for the memories.

In what basically amounts to a "business decision" the Dodgers have somehow managed to handicap themselves for the present and the future. In what universe is that good business? But hey, look on the bright side. At least we'll get to see Charlie Haeger start more than three games next season.

Matt Kemp Is Funny Too

Three recent postings on Matt Kemp's Twitter page...

about 3 hours ago from Echofon
It's official Andre Ethier and myself jus won the silver slugger....wow!!! God has blessed me this year!!! This is another great day.

about 3 hours ago from Echofon
And I jus found out my boy Torii Hunter won the silver slugger 2. Two LA centerfielders holding it down 4 LA

about 2 hours ago from Echofon
My fault, my boy Torii plays for Anaheim...lol

Hilarious. Let's lock this guy up for years to come.

Manny A Thoughts

A little late to the party on this one, but that's neither here nor there. As you've all heard by now Manny Ramirez will be returning to the Dodgers in 2010. Admittedly the hoopla surrounding his return was substantially less than his initial arrival in 2008, and subsequent signing in 2009. Another season of Manny was such a foregone conclusion that it didn't even warrant a post when news broke a week ago. That is until this email exchange my Dad and I had today.

DAD: I am anxiously awaiting your R.O.B post concerning Manny.

ME: What about him? He's on the team for another year. Can't really say its a surprise. Do you know you something I don't?

DAD: No. I just thought you might comment on his taking of all that money after his less than stellar performance, and after his suspension. He was a bust in the playoffs (edit: minus hitting home runs that isn't entirely correct), and he could learn something about playing from the young guys. He better not turn into a cancer in the clubhouse like he did in Boston. He better quit playing all of the balls to left field like they are coming off the green monster, and when spring training time comes he had better be ready to contribute. A lot of us want to see the Dodgers really finish the season right and he needs to be a part of it for it to happen.

Can't really raise an objection to the fielding or spring training remarks. Good to see someone thinking about spring before winter has even set in.

Matt Kemp Is Golden

From the Press Release...

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Rawlings today announced that center fielder Matt Kemp and second baseman Orlando Hudson were awarded the National League Rawlings Gold Glove for their respective positions. Kemp becomes a Rawlings Gold Glove winner for the first time in his career.

Kemp led all Major League center fielders and ranked third among all big league outfielders with 14 outfield assists. His .995 fielding percentage was third among NL center fielders, behind Gold Glove winner Shane Victorino and Nate McLouth. The Oklahoma native made just two errors on the season.

While Hudson might not have been the most qualified winner, there is no debating the merits of Matt Kemp. He could have filled his own highlight reel roaming the outfield. My personal favorite was his "Willie Mays" over-the-shoulder catch made on July 10th. Not only did he make the game saving grab, he also hit the game winning grand slam in the top of the 10th inning. It was one of those games that made you sit back and say, "DAMN!" Of course, in typical media fashion, the writer spent half the recap column gushing over Manny.

Anyway, a big congratulations to Matt Kemp on an award truly deserved. Here's to many more.

Photo Courtesy of Orel @ SOSG

Dodgers Decline Garland's Option

Courtesy of Ken Gurnick...

The Dodgers declined the $10 million 2010 mutual option for right-handed pitcher Jon Garland, who can become a free agent.

Garland is entitled to receive a $2.5 million buyout, which will be paid by the Arizona Diamondbacks as part of the terms of the trade that sent Garland to the Dodgers for infielder Tony Abreu on Aug. 31.

I'm not one to stress over losing prospects, but giving up Tony Abreu for 36 1/3 innings of Jon Garland is something I'd rather not think about.

That's not an attempt to take away from anything Garland did as a Dodger (153 ERA+), or the prospect of having a reliable, albeit expensive, innings eater for 2010, but Garland's acquisition in late August was anything but necessary. With Charlie Haeger (125 ERA+, 1.053 WHIP), James McDonald (2.89 ERA in August/ September/ October) and even Jeff Weaver (114 ERA+), the Dodgers had more than enough candidates to fill those 36 1/3 innings, and didn't need to sacrifice their probable second basemen for the immediate future. So much for best laid plans, right?

Year In Reflection, Part II

From Orlando Hudson's home opening cycle to the multiple walk-off hits at the bat of Andre Ethier, there's no denying the 2009 Dodgers had a flair for the dramatic. Mark Loretta's hit in Game 2 of NLDS was the biggest walk-off of the year, but that's not to discount anything that Andre Ethier, who was named the "2009 MLB Clutch Performer of the Year," accomplished throughout the season. Of Ethier's six walk-off hits (four via home run) I was fortune enough to be in attendance for this one...

August 6th, 2009

Often times, before a game, my friends and I sit in the parking lot and drink a few beers before entering the stadium gates. We're not of the party going variety by any stretch, but the prospect of paying Frank McCourt $12 for a single beer is not something we consider fair market value. While tailgating at Dodger Stadium is technically illegal, you feel invisible to the law when you park between two large vans and drink behind tinted windows. That is until LAPD bicycle cops ride in between cars and begin to knock on windows. Talk about a buzz kill before the buzz.

My friend and I were pleasantly surprised when the officers politely explained the safety risks involved with tailgating, and instructed us enter the stadium without so much as a warning. A rough way to begin the night, but the damage could have been much worse. Sorta like watching Jeff Weaver start a game.

Facing their old friend Derek Lowe, the Dodgers quickly dug themselves into an early 2-0 hole, and would fail to lead at any point through the first 8.2 innings. It's not as if the chances didn't present themselves though. The Dodgers sent the go ahead runs to plate in both the seventh and eighth innings; however, strikeouts by Manny Ramirez (with two on in the seventh) and Matt Kemp (with two on in the eighth) to conclude each inning were unbelievably deflating. The crowd quickly thinned out, unaware of what would unfold to the faithful that remained.

Pierre and Furcal singled to start the bottom of the ninth, and would be hero Andre Ethier stepped to the plate. Three pitches later the ball game was over. If walk-off singles are sweet, then three run walk-off long balls are double chocolate fudge cheescake. Here's what I wrote about the game upon getting home that night:

A frustrating strikeout by Matt Kemp in the 8th inning saw the stands at Dodger Stadium empty like a dam letting loose years of stored up water. Doubt was in the air. However, those moments of agony and wondering at what might have been were soon replaced with memories of wonder and amazement at what actually was.

Tonight's walk-off home run by Andre Ethier not only won the game, but brought back the swagger to a team going through a tough part of the season. Three outs away from losing 8 of the past 12, the Dodgers stood strong, and refused to go quietly into the night.

The memories still resonate three months later, and refuse to fade into obscurity. It was yet another pleasant Dodger moment of 2009. However, as I wrote earlier, "the supporting cast present during those moments transcend[s] simply being at the ballpark watching Dodger baseball." Eventually the finer details of this game will fade away, and will be replaced with the remembrance of another Dodger game with my dear friend.

A Reminder

Under a full moon, and amongst the creepies and crazies, I fought my way through the festivities at Universal City Walk last night. The high volume of foot traffic demanded my full attention as I weaved and waved through the crowd on the way to my final destination. I hastily turned a corner and, out of the corner of my eye, caught the unmistakable neon blue glow of the Dodger logo hanging above the team store.

I was taken aback for a second, as it was the first time I had thought about the Dodgers in almost a week. That may seem like no big deal to some, but after thinking about them non-stop for the better part of the year it was a little saddening. The Dodgers may be done playing for the year; however, they're anything but distant in my mind. Last night was a surprising reminder of that.

Year In Reflection, Part I

Perhaps the greatest the joy to be taken away from the recently concluded season were the experiences shared with family and friends. Looking back, a few moments stood out above the rest, and the supporting cast present during those moments transcended simply being at the ballpark watching Dodger baseball. Time has erased the disappointment of an NLCS defeat, and has brought to the surface recollections of happiness that was the 2009 season. Please forgive the self indulgence.

NLDS, Game 1

My Dad, who taught me to bleed blue from a young age, somehow hadn't been to a Dodger playoff game since Game 4 of the 1963 World Series. Shameful I know. So when the Dodgers found themselves in the playoffs for the second straight year there was simply no way I was going to let him miss another series on my watch. Plus he always pays for the tickets.

Despite having the best record in the National League during the regular season the Dodgers were written off by the majority of the mainstream media, and were even predicted to get swept by the hometown newspaper, before the series even began. And for the first few moments of Game 1 it appeared the pundits would be correct.

The Cardinals loaded the bases to start the game in about three nanoseconds, and panic soon set in. The silence throughout the stadium was deafening, as if that was even possible. I slumped in my seat, crossed my arms and grumbled silently, "I made my Dad drive hundreds of miles for this?" A bloop single by Ryan Ludwick further compounded the frustration as the Cardinals jumped out to an early 1-0 lead. Dodger pitcher Randy Wolf was laboring, and the boys in blue were playing like the team we've grown all too familiar with over the past decade. The stadium breathed a sigh of relief however as the next batter, Yadier Molia, grounded into an inning ending double play. Escaping that inning trailing only 1-0 felt like a small victory.

Rafael Furcal started off the bottom of the first and stroked the second pitch he saw into left field. And up to the plate stepped Matt Kemp. Seemingly, before his name was finished being announced, Kemp sent the first pitch he saw into the bleachers, and sent the Ravine into an orchestrated ruckus. From our seats in Loge 158 I could tell the ball was gone the second it left the bat. That's not always the case on deep fly balls, but there was never a moment of denial surrounding that particular moment. One pitch changed the momentum, and proved that Los Angeles would not go quietly into the night.

Screaming and shrieking like a little schoolgirl I let out a scream that pierced the night. I have never screamed louder at any sporting event. My Dad, who joined in the celebration, abused his vocal cords to the point that he was noticeably hoarse the next few innings. It was alright however, sometimes spoken words aren't enough to capture what unfolds before the eyes. A great memory in great company. This is my town.

I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself

For the first Saturday since April there will be no Dodger baseball on television. No reason to avoid social outings, and no excuses for not watching my fiancee's preferred Saturday viewing, "Say Yes To The Dress" on TLC. It's all your fault Jimmy Rollins.

A Stance

I'd like to take a moment and speak briefly about the Frank and Jamie circus. The situation they have found themselves in is unfortunate, and may very well prove unfortunate for the Dodger organization as well. However, Reflections of Blue will not be rumor central, and will only comment on any developments that relate to the organization, and direction of the team. If it comes out that Frank McCourt was "scouting prospects" around Los Angeles, well, you won't read about it here.

The only rumors to be found on this site during the off-season will pertain to free agency, contractual thoughts, and organizational movements. There is lots of work to be done within the organization, not to mention the multitude of transactions likely to occur in the coming weeks, that command more coverage and respect than a husband/wife tiff. No disrespect meant to any other sites covering such developments, it's just not my bag.

There's A War Outside Still Raging/ You Say It Ain't Ours Anymore To Win

And so, at the hands of the Phillies once again, the Dodgers pack it in for the winter. It's never easy to say goodbye to something you love so dearly, but after the sucker punch that was Game 4 you'd be hard pressed to say this loss was something completely out of left field (no pun intended). No, the unexpectedness came from the incredible joy that was the 2009 season, and in the great memories both shared and experienced with friends and fellow fans.

I've been bleeding blue my entire life, but believe me when I say it was REALLY PUMPING this year. There may not be a meaningful pitch until next season; however, the Dodgers won't be far from my mind. How could they be after all we bore witness to this season?

More Manny Bashing

Regardless of your personal stance on the matter, is this really necessary?

He’s now a dreadlocked distraction, and the example he sets for Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp and James Loney and Russell Martin – that not watching the game is acceptable under any circumstances – is pitiful.

Would it really have been that hard to watch a few regular season Dodger games before writing such tabloid trash? If anything, Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp are the ones setting the examples.

The Worst Dodger Moment Of My Life

My fiancee often calls this little site I maintain my "Dodger diary." Sure it's not some pink book with a cheap lock on the front, but I've been known to sit in bed many a night and pour out my emotions to the computer just before slipping away in slumber. Well, dear diary, what the hell just happened?

My Dad, who has been a fan ever since the team moved to Los Angeles, has referred to the Dodgers as "The Bums" for as long as I can remember. It's only now that I understand why.

Miserable Performance All Around

A completely demoralizing night for the boys in blue. Simply stated, zero runs will never get it done, and that's what happened tonight. If it's any consolation understand that ten runs wouldn't have accomplished anything either. Whether Cliff Lee goes eight scoreless innings (which he did) or gets yanked early the Dodgers still would have needed to score twelve runs to pull out a victory. And they didn't.

The Dodgers were ugly on both sides of the ball, and that's putting it mildly. It's hard not feel dejected and worrisome after an 11-0 loss, especially since tonight's defeat could very well mean no more games in Los Angeles until next April. However, as Joe Torre reminds us, it's just one game.

"You never want to get your rear end kicked," Dodgers manager Joe Torre said. "But you don't toss and turn and wonder if you made the right move. It's still only one game and we're in position to tie the series tomorrow."

Hard to feel that way though after watching such a smackdown.

On a side note, in case anyone is wondering, Hiroki Kuroda's 2009 postseason ERA now resides at a laughable 40.50. Funny, given how awful he was tonight, I thought that number would have been higher.

Photo courtesy of David J. Phillip

Studying Up For Game 3

It's been quiet around here as of late, and with good reason, but rest assured I'm all studied up for today's exam. Below, an excerpt from a wonderful piece courtesy of Dylan Hernandez that you might want to familiarize yourself with. Talk about tough...

[Kuroda] said that when he was in high school, his baseball team held a one-month training camp in the summer. The team practiced from sunup to sundown. The players slept at the school.

Because drinking water was considered a sign of weakness, doing so was not allowed by the coach. Practices were so brutal that players resorted to drinking directly out of a dirty river that ran behind the baseball field.

If that weren't bad enough, Kuroda received an added punishment for pitching poorly. He and another pitcher were told to run nonstop for four days in a row. They were expected to continue running throughout the night.

Kuroda said teammates used to sneak food and water to them and that he and the other pitcher would keep running, but would also be waiting for the light in the coach's office to go off. Then they would run behind a fence, where they would sleep for a few hours, and then be up and running again by the time their coach woke up.

After three days, Kuroda said that the other boy's mother became concerned about their health and showed up one night and took her son and Kuroda back to her house.

The boy's mother called Kuroda's mother to tell them what had happened.

Kuroda said his mother told her: "Please take my son back to the field."

Like Stealing A Kiss From The Homecoming Queen

Things were looking grim with Pedro on the mound. The Dodgers were six outs away from misery. Fate soon intervened however, and made it's way out of the right field gates. Just your typical single, bunt single, fielders choice, throwing error, single, walk, strikeout, walk come from behind rally. Left for dead, but suddenly alive with hope. Exhale with me. It's a whole new series.

Pick Me Up Off The Floor

If last week's walk-off hit by Mark Loretta was the highlight of the season then tonight's defeat, at least on a personal level, clocks in as the lowest. The energy and effort exerted by the Dodgers was painfully clear; however, the dueling three run shots by the Phillies put the game out of reach from even the most resilient team. Buckets were working all night long, but the water simply came in too fast too often.

If there are any positives to take away from tonight's loss it was that the Dodgers, despite being down by three or more runs in three different situations, never threw in the the towel. The tying or go ahead run was sent to the plate six times in the final two innings. The effort was there, alas, it just wasn't meant to be.

We could sit and analyze tonight's game to no end, but with Game 2 just around the corner another batch of problems lies on the horizon.

Craig Sager Is Stealing Vin Scully's Suits

Get Ready For $25 Parking

It appears the McCourts have some large legal bills in their near future. From the LA Times...

Grossman [Frank McCourt's lawyer] said there was "not a chance" that the team would be put up for sale. "Speculation about a potential sale of the team is rubbish. Frank McCourt is the sole owner. He has absolutely no intention of selling this team now or ever."

"This is not going to be another San Diego-like debacle," Grossman said, referring to Moores' sale of the Padres.

"There's a lot of public interest in the Dodgers, obviously. It's our baseball team, but the rules don't really change. Under California law, courts have a duty to effectuate a 50-50 division of the net community estate," Rale said.

He said that the couple could decide to continue as partners in the team, but that would be a rare choice for former spouses.

"Typically, they don't want to be partners in life anymore and they certainly don't want to be partners in business," he said.

Alternatively, one of the McCourts could try to buy the other out.

Since the team was practically bought on a credit card, I don't see that happening. I wonder if Frank would offer Jamie deferred payments like he did with Manny?

You Better REALLY Like Vicente Padilla

According to Joe Torre's recently announced rotation, Vicente Padilla is slated to start Game 2. This means he would also be on track to pitch Game 6 (if necessary). It's hard to argue with the success behind Padilla's latest two starts (12 IP, 1 R, 14 K's, 1 BB), but it wasn't that long ago that he allowed four earned runs over five innings in consecutive outings. There is a case to be made for tabbing the hot hand, but this now means that Randy Wolf will likely make only one start in the NLCS. Check out the career batting averages for three of the Phillies biggest bats, and some loser named Gabor Paul Bako II, against Randy Wolf...

Bako - .200
Utley- .125
Howard - .111
Werth- .111

Additionally, Wolf has been absolutely murderous to left handed hitters in 2009, posting a .159/ .217/ .200 average against. And how many left handed batters does Philadelphia have in their lineup? Try FIVE! Yup, that's right, five of the eight players in the lineup can hit from the left side of the plate. For the record that's Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Raul Ibanez and Shane Victorino.

Again, Randy Wolf will likely make only one start in the NLCS. That's a tough pill to swallow.

Phillie Pitching

Based on a season long dominance (winning 14 of 18 on the year) the Colorado Rockies would have been our ideal opponent in the upcoming NLCS. However, fate dealt the Dodgers a chance at redemption for last season's NLCS defeat as the Philadelphia Phillies are now headed west.

While the Game 1 and 2 starters for either side have yet to be announced it appears that Cliff Lee, who threw 117 pitches in Monday's victory over Colorado, will not be pitching in the first two games at Dodger Stadium. So how do the rest of the Phillie starters match up against our boys in Blue?

Cole Hamels, LHP (10-11, 4.32 ERA, 1.286 WHIP, 7.8 K/9, 2.0 BB/9)
Over the course of their careers Dodger hitters have not fared very well against Cole Hamels. No single player has an OPS over .878, and players like Andre Ethier (.300 OPS), Rafael Furcal (.286) and even Manny Ramirez (.583) have struggled against the lefty. It's a small sample size yes, but the numbers still ain't pretty.

Hamels performances were average at Citizens Bank Ballpark this season; however, in his two career appearances at Dodger Stadium he has limited opposing hitters to a .182/ .211/ .218 slash line, while sporting a 6:1 K/BB ratio. That's dominating stuff any way you spin it.

J.A. Happ, LHP (12-4, 2.93 ERA, 1.235 WHIP, 6.5 K/9, 3.0 BB/9)
The Jeff Weaver of Philadelphia appeared in 23 games as a starter, and 12 games as a reliever in 2009. He has almost no record against current Dodgers, but does have an impressive .219/ .283/ .368 slash line away from his home turf. Additionally, he matches up well against lefties with an almost identical .216/ .285/ .368 slash line.

Pedro Martinez, RHP (5-1, 3.63 ERA, 1.254 WHIP, 7.5 K/9, 1.6 BB/9)
Having resided in the American League for most of his career, Martinez doesn't have much experience against the normal Dodger starters. But what he does have is an absolute dominance over Manny Ramirez. In Manny's 30 career at-bats against Pedro he has been struck out 13 times, and been limited to a .167/ .194/ .233 slash line. Yikes. Martinez hasn't pitched in Dodger Stadium since 2006, but has posted a 5.66 road ERA over the course of this season.

Sans Martinez, the other two pitchers listed above are left handed. Factor in Jamie Moyer and Joe Blanton, both whom figure to come out of the bullpen, and you're looking at a healthy dose of southpaws. So how have the Dodgers performed against left handed pitchers in 2009?

As a team they are .272/ .359/ .427 on the season, but the following players do have impressive numbers against left handed pitchers during 2009:

Matt Kemp- 1.045 OPS
Casey Blake- 1.005 OPS
Manny Ramirez- .893 OPS
Rafael Furcal- .815 OPS

No real surprises there, as those are the guys you expect to perform against any pitcher. The only notable exception is Andre Ethier and his .629 OPS, not to mention a horrible .194 batting average, against lefties on the season.

It's going to be a very interesting series for sure, and the Dodgers do have their work cut out for them, especially against Lee and Hamels, but having got through Carpenter and Wainwright (or moreover Ryan Franklin) they should be up for the challenge.

Slow News Day

This guy gets a page on ESPN? Really?

Striking Comparison

Kirk Gibson, 1988




Mark Loretta, 2009

More Fun With Photos

Thanks to a three run ninth, it's looking like a rematch between the Dodgers and Phillies in the NLCS. Much to discuss regarding that matchup, but in the meantime let's look back at some NLDS photos recently posted to the Los Angeles Times website. There are also some Anaheim Angels photos posted for those of you so inclined.





Photos courtesy of (1- Alex Gillardo, 2, 3, 4- Wally Skalij)

At Least The LA Times Got The Sweep Part Right

My fiancee, bless her, doesn't know that much about baseball. When the champagne started flowing in the Dodger clubhouse following the game, she asked me, "what happens to the red team now?" When I told her that the Cardinals season was over she replied, "well at least they know where to get some alcohol to drown their sorrows."

HA!

Today's victory, if nothing else, further exemplifies the team effort that the Dodgers have shown all season long. No single player on the Dodgers single handedly ended the Cardinals season, but a congregation of individuals (not to mention Holliday's sac) contributed over the past three games, and propelled the Blue to their second consecutive NLDS sweep. Today it was Vicente Padilla, Andre Ethier and Manny Ramirez adding their names to the growing list of Rafael Furcal, Casey Blake, Mark Loretta, Ronnie Belliard, Clayton Kershaw, Jeff Weaver, Jonathan Broxton and every other member of the Dodgers bullpen.

This team, and that really is the appropriate word, has a very legitimate shot at World Series glory. That statement seems obvious, after all every team that reaches the postseason has a chance, but something about this group of Dodgers feels different. They're confident, resilient, don't need an "ace" to shutdown other teams, and just appear to be having fun on the field. They are an absolute joy to watch, and something to look forward to everyday. Only one question remains. How am I going to survive five days until the next game?

Photo courtesy Getty Images/ Ronald Martinez

The Next Day

The first thing to enter my mind when I woke up this morning was the Dodgers. I dressed for work in my Dodger shirt, and immediately watched the last fifteen minutes from yesterday's UNBELIEVABLE game. I figured some of the magic would rub off; however, I'm still buzzing about it. It was, still is, and always will be INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There's still work left to be done, but slaying the "mighty" Cardinals in the first two games, when the national media left us for dead, is more rewarding that I have words for. It truly is a great time to be a Dodger fan.

Video courtesy of dodger30blue. Note: There's nothing wrong with the audio, it was simply that loud!

The Master

Anyone that was at the game, or had to suffer through the TBS crew, can now listen to Scully's call of the ninth inning complete with video from the game. Funny to listen to Scully say, "it hit him right in the groin, I hope he's wearing a cup!"

Thanks to Nat for the link!

Excitment With Photos

If a picture tells a thousand words, then these narrate through the night.

Photos courtesy of AP and Getty Images. Photographer not listed at time of publication.

Cardinals (And Holliday) Take It In The Nuts

My that glove looks awful empty.

Los Angeles - Bottom of 9th	SCORE
Trever Miller pitching for St. Louis	STL	LAD
T Miller relieved A Wainwright.	2	1
A Ethier popped out to second.	2	1
R Franklin relieved T Miller.	2	1
M Ramirez flied out to center.	2	1
J Loney safe at second on error by left fielder M Holliday.	2	1
J Pierre ran for J Loney.	2	1
C Blake walked.	2	1
R Belliard singled to center, J Pierre scored, C Blake to second.	2	2
C Blake to third, R Belliard to second on passed ball by Y Molina.	2	2
R Martin walked.	2	2
M Loretta hit for G Sherrill.	2	2
M Loretta singled to center, C Blake scored, R Belliard to third, R Martin to second.	2	3

Mark Lorretta of all people! That alone will keep me smiling all night long. More to come once I can gather my thoughts.

How Do You Like Them Apples?

There were a lot of haters bashing the Dodgers before the start of the NLDS. They said the Dodgers couldn't stop Pujols, Holliday and Carpenter. They said the Dodgers were too reliant upon Manny Ramirez. They said the Cardinals bullpen was the best of the playoff teams, and that their rotation topped all comers as well. What do they have to say for themselves now?





Not only did the Dodgers shut down Pujols and Holliday, who went a combined 1-7, but the bullpen made sure no comebacks would happen on their watch. Scattering 5 hits over the final 5 1/3 innings the combination of Jeff Weaver, Ronald Belisario, Hong-Chih Kuo, George Sherrill, and Jonathan Broxton took center stage and never allowed the Cardinals to threaten.

"A lot of people believe they have one of the best bullpens in baseball," St. Louis right fielder Ryan Ludwick said. "They kind of shut us down. They shut the door."

"We had too many chances, too many chances," said Mark DeRosa, who left two runners on base in the third inning. "Their bullpen came in, and inning after inning, we didn't get the big hit we needed."

If you would have told me before the start of the game that the Cardinals would bang out eleven hits, that the Dodgers would leave sixteen men on base, that Matt Kemp would misplay two fly balls (both leading to runs), and that Jeff Weaver would be pitching in the 4th inning I would have curled up in the fetal position and started sobbing. After all, those things shouldn't add up to a win. However, at least for tonight, they did.

In the end, the Dodgers won tonight's game the way they've won games all season long. They didn't have to rely on Manny Ramirez, and they didn't need an "ace" to deal eight shutout innings. They just needed to be themselves, and get key contributions from certain players. Rafael Furcal comes to mind tonight, as does Jeff Weaver. The work is far from done, but it's off to a GREAT start.

Photos 1 and 2 courtesy of Mark J. Terrill. Photo 3 courtesy of Jae C. Hong.

NLDS Roster Finalized

The NLDS Roster is set. From the Press Release...

Pitchers (11)
Ronald Belisario, Chad Billingsley, Jonathan Broxton, Jon Garland, Clayton Kershaw, Hong-Chih Kuo, Vicente Padilla, George Sherrill, Ramon Troncoso, Jeff Weaver, Randy Wolf

Positional (14)
Andre Ethier, Manny Ramirez, Matt Kemp, Juan Pierre, Ronnie Belliard, Casey Blake, Juan Castro, Rafael Furcal, James Loney, Orlando Hudson, Mark Loretta, Jim Thome, Brad Ausmus, Russell Martin

Conversations With A Cardinals Fan

With Game 1 of the NLDS just around the corner I exchanged emails with a friend of mine who just happens to be a longtime Cardinal fan living in Los Angeles. I expected an onslaught of "Beat LA" chants; however, my companion was more than complimentary in his remarks. My words are in bold.

The prospect of having to face Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright, Albert Pujols, and Matt Holliday is downright frightening for some Dodger fans, and a key selling point for most of the media picking against the Dodgers for the upcoming NLDS. As a Cardinals fan, is there anyone you fear facing on the Dodgers current roster?

I think this is going to be a very interesting series because both of these teams have that depth you need to win games. The Dodgers have key players like Casey Blake and Andre Ethier that are able to deliver in times of need. If it comes down to a scoreless eighth inning situation, those are two guys we won't want to be facing. And if Manny wakes up at the plate the Cards could be in serious trouble.

It's funny you mention Manny Ramirez waking up, as Ryan Ludwick seemingly hit the snooze button during the last month of the season. Over his last 77 plate appearances Ludwick batted a very pedestrian .229 with only 3 extra base hits, despite tearing the cover off the ball for most of the season. We all know Pujols and Holliday are very threating (EDIT: Pujols hasn't hit a home run in his last 78 plate appearances though), but Ludwick plays a valuable role in your lineup as well. Are you worried about him heading into this series?

Ludwick hasn't been as hot as he was earlier this season, but he has scored or drove in 10 out of the last 43 runs the Cards have scored. Hopefully he comes around, but I don't consider him crucial in getting passed LA.

Besides the big four players I mentioned earlier, who do you consider to be a dark horse player that no one is thinking about? Someone that despite not getting huge national headlines (like Casey Blake who you mentioned earlier) has been quite serviceable and sometimes has a little magic up their sleeve?

Skip Schumaker can be very dangerous when put in the top of the lineup. He's got a .304 average with runners on and that's exactly the area we need success in to break early leads. I've also really enjoyed watching Julio Lugo this season as he's been a big success
since coming to St. Louis. I think his playoff experience will allow him to be a pretty clutch player these next few weeks.

Julio Lugo! Don't even get me started. As you live in Los Angeles I know you have an occasional interest in the Dodgers. You're at least familiar with them as a casual fan. What do they need to focus on in order to take down the Cardinals?

LA is going to have to get an early start and take the first couple games at home, which means Randall Wolf is going to have to really concentrate on his first post season outing. We've clearly had a rough season against left handed pitchers, so Wednesday and Thursday is the Dodgers time to shine. And while Ludwick has struggled at the plate as we talked about earlier, he's still got a cannon coming from right field so the Dodgers will need to drop it into left field if they want extra bases. It's going to be a fantastic series and I can't wait to see how these teams handle each other. Go Red Birds!

I can't let him have the last word. Go Blue!

Pitching On The Mind

Plastered all over the internet you'll see experts proclaiming the Cardinals rotation to be the top performing squad heading into the playoffs. Included in the linked article above is the following statement...

The Cardinals are the class of the field; the Tigers, Red Sox and Phillies make a tightly grouped second tier; and the Angels, Rockies and Yankees are roughly equal.

First off the Tigers aren't even in the playoffs yet, and second, where the hell are the Dodgers in this conversation? You gotta scroll down a long way to find their thoughts on the Blue...

The Dodgers have depth, but their hopes truly rest on the left arms of Randy Wolf and Clayton Kershaw.

If that's the case, at least for the NLDS, perhaps we aren't as doomed as the media is making us out to be. Take for example the following pitchers scheduled to pitch Game 1 and 2 of said NLDS:

Chris Carpenter
17-4, 2.24 ERA, 1.007 WHIP, 7.3 H/9, 6.7 K/9, 1.8 BB/9, .3 HR/9, .226/ .272/ .310

Adam Wainwright
19-8, 2.63 ERA, 1.210 WHIP, 8.3 H/9, 8.2 K/9, 2.5 BB/9, .7 HR/9, .244/ .297/ .349

Clayton Kershaw
8-8, 2.79 ERA, 1.228 WHIP, 6.3 H/9, 9.7 K/9, 4.8 BB/9, .4 HR/9, .200/ .306/. 282

Randy Wolf
11-7, 3.23 ERA, 1.101 WHIP, 7.5 H/9, 6.7 K/9, 2.4 BB/9, 1.0HR/ 9, .227/ .285/ .375

The first thing that catches the eye are Wainwright and Carpenter's gaudy win totals, at 19 and 17 respectively. However, when you isolate each stat (excluding wins, as they reflect no value over a pitchers worth), assign a point system (1 thru 4, with 4 being the highest) and total those points, the difference between the bunch levels off dramatically. Confused? Check out the grid I roughed out...


Clearly Chris Carpenter stands out above the rest, but Clayton Kershaw dominates his Game 2 matchup against Adam Wainwright just as much as Carpenter owns Wolf in Game 1. Granted, beating Carpenter and Wainwright on consecutive nights will be no easy task; however, it's not as though St. Louis is going to steamroll Wolf and Kershaw either. Not only is St. Louis "the worst team in baseball hitting against left-handed pitchers" but the mighty Albert Pujols is sporting a very pedestrian .743 OPS (with 0 HR's) for his career against Randy Wolf.

Winning the first two games is going to be tough, just as it would be against any other playoff team, but it's certainly not the impossible task it's being made out to be. Have a little faith, and Don't Stop Believing.

Stealing From SOSG

I've never been big on roster predictions or series previews. First off I'm lazy. Secondly, and more importantly, there are so many other people out there doing it better than I am. But while I was reading the predictions and previews at other Dodger blogs, I came across this transcript of Vin Scully's recollection of managing a game himself. I've lifted it straight from Sons of Steve Garvey as I'd hate for those that don't click through to miss it. Sorry guys...

If you don't mind me reminiscing, thinking about Brad Ausmus being the manager. I actually managed the Dodgers during a game.

The pitch is off the plate.

Walter Alston was the manager of the Dodgers and we were playing a game right here at Dodger Stadium, and we used to have a headset in the dugout for interviews and also, when you got in a tough pennant race, guys liked to hear scores of other games.

One-one pitch and that's a strike, one and two.

Anyway, it was like today, many years ago, about 1965, and the phone rang in the booth and it was Walter Alston. And he said, "Look, I'm going to wear the headset, and you manage."

And we were on the phone during a commercial break.

I said, "You're kidding."

He said, "No, I want you to manage."

I said, "All right."

He said, "The only thing, you gotta be quick."

I said, "Well, I'll try."

Two and two the count to A.J. Ellis.

Ron Fairly was the runner at first base and Ron had consumed a bit of champagne the night before, during the celebration. 'Cause in those days, you won the pennant, it was really a big deal.

That's a drive into center for a base hit, so Ellis will pick up a run batted in as he picks up Casey Blake, and the Dodgers lead four to nothing, and maybe this isn't a bad time to talk about my managerial experience.

They get the ball now for A.J. Ellis, his first big-league hit and run batted in, so it's a big day for him.

Anyway, to get back to me [laughs] — that's a terrible way to put it, but I think you'll understand.

Here is Vicente Padilla.

So anyway, Fairly got to first base, and now I know that Alston is listening, and so is the crowd. In those days, everybody had transistor radios.

And the pitch is ball one.

So I said, on the air, "You know, I hate to do this to my friend Fairly, and I know he's not feeling well, he's full of champagne, but — I want him going."

And so — here's the one-oh pitch. Fouled back.

And Alston flashed the sign, and the crowd now is into the game, and they see Fairly take the greatest double-take you ever saw, looking in to the manager as if to say, "Are you kidding? The day after we won the pennant, you're going to run me?"

And so he started to run. The pitch was fouled off.

One ball and one strike the count, next one's outside. Two balls, one strike.

And now again talking to the crowd, and I said, "You know, I just hate to do this, but Walter Alston has always taught me: If it's a good play, come right back with it."

Well, Alston again flashes to Fairly: I want you to go.

Pitch is inside, ball three.

And Fairly now absolutely can't believe it. But, like a good soldier, he follows orders.

He takes off, the pitch is in the dirt, it gets away from the catcher, and Fairly collapses at second base with a stolen base.

The pitch to Padilla a strike. Three and two.

Now I'm looking to get off the stage. I mean, that's enough.

So then I said, "Alston, I got you this far. The rest of the game you're on your own."

And Fairly was at second base.

So my one moment as a manager in the big leagues.

Runners go, three-two pitch swung on and missed, got the story in just in time. And for the Dodgers, they pick up a big four. And at the end of an inning, Dodgers four, Rockies nothing.

Thanks for taking the time to type it up Orel. It's really a great story. I didn't have a chance to watch the game on Sunday (too busy going 4-0 in fantasy football) but you can tell just by reading it how much fun Scully had in telling it. I'll be in attendance at Game 1 and just might have to break out the transistor radio. I would hate to miss another gem like this one.

Two Days To Ponder

Much was made of the Dodgers late season slide, and how they backed into the playoffs, finishing the season with a 7-8 record over the last fifteen games. "It's important how you finish" you'll often hear people say. Based on this logic, even though there's no conclusive evidence to support it, a series victory against the Cardinals can't be too far behind. As you can see the Cardinals finished their final fifteen games with a 6-9 record, including a stinky 1-6 run to conclude the season. Preach momentum all you want, but two days off should negate any gravitational forces that currently exist for either team. Wednesday brings a clean slate.

Another topic of recent has been the relationship between a good bullpen and playoff success. David Schoenfield of ESPN goes as far as to state, "that a good bullpen is a better predictor of playoff success than a team's win-loss record or its offense." Anyone know which team had the best bullpen in the major leagues this season? Say it together with me now.

While the Dodgers bullpen was tip top in 2009, the Cardinals bullpen was no slouch either, and is getting love within the web pages of ESPN. The author, Christina Kahri, determined that the Cardinals have the best bullpen in the playoffs based on the strength of their top four "dudes." Nonsense I say! How could she leave out Guillermo Mota?

With that said, a semi series preview courtesy of MSTI.

I Got My Blue Ready

I'll be there. Anybody else?

Shower Time

If you haven't already done so please visit Sons of Steve Garvey and check out the division clinching celebration pictures. They're incredibly entertaining.

Number Disappears, Magic Remains

What a difference a day makes. Yesterday, like several others, I had written the Dodgers off, but now I feel as if we could hold our own against the 1927 Yankees. I guess winning does that to you. Like the old Wall Street adage goes, "no one ever made a dime by panicking." Enjoy the victory Dodger fans, the real season has just begun.
--------------------------------------

Lost in the celebration, and a week's worth of tension, was the performance of Clayton Kershaw. The DOMINATING lefty went six innings, allowing three hits, but struck out ten batters in the process, including nine of the first eleven to start the game. What a tune up before the playoffs.

WOOF

It was an exciting game from the first pitch to the final out, but unfortunately the Dodgers came up short for the fifth consecutive game.

No, you know what, that's too nice of an introduction. The Dodgers sucked ass tonight and just may cause me to take a baseball bat to the personal belongings in my apartment. Tonight's loss marks the longest losing streak of the season, and comes at just the wrong time. A complete fail by Manny Ramirez (0-4, 4 Ks) and Casey Blake (also 0-4, 4Ks) contributed to the giant goose egg laid by the middle of the Dodger batting order (0-16, 10 Ks).

How, you ask, can I have this post up so quickly following the loss? I started typing it as a reverse jinx in the top of the eighth inning. Didn't work.

Welcome To The Playoffs Jon Garland

From Ken Gurnick...

Starter Hiroki Kuroda has a herniation of his cervical spine and will not pitch
in the first round of the playoffs, Dodgers manager Joe Torre said Friday.

Add Kuroda to the ever-growing list of sore Dodgers including Casey Blake, Ronny Belliard, Manny Ramirez, Hong-Chih Kuo, Orlando Hudson and Andre Ethier. Ok, so technically Ethier isn't hurt, but his recent slump (1-29, 0.34 ERA) has at least a few people wincing in pain.

Sign Me Up

Is Andre Ethier holding any more yoga sessions this year? I hear those melt away stress, and are very calming on the nerves.

A Quick Rant

I'm sick of all the Chad Billingsley talk. I'm upset at myself for even writing about it yesterday. I'm done analyzing each start trying to find a definitive answer surrounding him. In a world of "what have you done for me lately" Bills has been the poster boy, at least on less Dodger savvy sites (see: ESPN), for predicting Dodger doom come October. Hasn't that horse been beaten enough? As others have pointed out, let him pitch five innings and then turn it over to the bullpen.

Bills gets the ball in Game 4.* END OF STORY.

*if needed

The Sixth Inning Hates Chad Billingsley

Once again Chad Billingsley was solid through five innings (1 R, 1 H, 5 K, 2 BB) before faltering (referring to the three walks, not the lone run) in the sixth frame of tonight's loss to San Diego. Unfortunately that's been a recurring theme this season with Bills, as indicated by the following chart:

                                                                 
Split         G  PA  AB  R  H BB SO SO/BB   BA  OBP  OPS BAbip sOPS+
1st inning   31 126 112 14 32  8 22  2.75 .286 .323 .724  .333    90
2nd inning   31 126 114 11 27 10 24  2.40 .237 .304 .655  .284    77
3rd inning   30 119 103  9 21 12 29  2.42 .204 .293 .546  .284    49
4th inning   30 117 107  5 21  9 31  3.44 .196 .265 .583  .247    51
5th inning   29 111  94 10 15 15 35  2.33 .160 .273 .581  .211    53
6th inning   28 129 102 29 33 18 22  1.22 .324 .430 .949  .370   142

Note the large drop in K/BB, and the astronomical rise in every other stat including a horrendous slash line of .324/.430/.949. Simply put, that's never going to get it done. The trouble continued again tonight as Billingsley gave up a hit, which proved to be the eventual winning run, on the heels of three walks in the home half of the sixth inning. It was another almost for Billingsley, and for the Dodgers who failed to clinch the NL West for the third consecutive game. Don't give up the ship just yet, on the Dodgers or Chad Billingsley. There will be other chances for success in the near future for both of them.

Here We Go Again

For the first time in what seems like a month the Dodgers find themselves playing in a west coast friendly time slot, with everyone's favorite announcer getting the call. Last week's ho-hum attitude has faded, and in it's place lies an eagerness to make it home in time for the first pitch. The high volume of sub-plots surrounding today's action sparks an excitement that has been dormant during the current road trip. All of the following are in play:

• The Dodgers can clinch the NL West Division with a victory, while a Colorado loss would also accomplish the same.
  
  
• Chad Billingsley's playoff role is on the line today, and so to are those of Jon Garland and Vicente Padilla. A solid start by Bills, on the heels of last week's six inning, one hit performance, would seemingly be enough for him to be named the fourth starter in place of Garland.
  
  
• Atlanta is putting together a mini run for the Wild Card, winning their last seven games and pulling within two of the Rockies. Wouldn't it be nice to see the Dodgers knock out Jim Tracy when the Rockies come to town to conclude the season?
  
  
• A Dodger win nets me $260 for my NL West Futures bet back in March. Playoff tickets here we come!

But at least for tonight, let's forget those other story lines and shower in champagne.

Tomorrow's Another Day

After an almost, and a not even close, attempt at locking up the NL West, how satisfying would it be for Chad Billinsgley of all people to come through with a clinching performance tomorrow? Having been through the ringer lately a champagne celebration at the conclusion of a solid game would certainly be good for the psyche. Funny thing, that last sentence was meant for Billingsley, but after the last two games it certainly applies to the Dodgers as well.

Losing three out of four to the Pirates will likely cause alarms to ring elsewhere, but not here. The Dodgers are 8-2-1 in their last eleven series' dating back to August 20th against Chicago. That, to me, says more about the current status of the team than the last four games.

I-15 Misery

A Sunday afternoon drive home from Las Vegas found Charlie Steiner echoing across the desert airwaves. The Dodgers, thanks in part to a ninth inning outburst, had suddenly found themselves three outs away from a second consecutive Division title. Then suddenly, like the I-15 freeway just outside of Primm, the momentum screeched to a halt, and the Dodgers proceeded to wilt under the realization that the sweet taste of champagne was three outs away.

Four hits off Jonathan Broxton, coupled with errors by Furcal and Ethier, made the journey home more frustrating than Renee, the blackjack dealer at the Golden Nugget, who forgot that dealer busting is a critical part of my blackack success.