Hello Stranger

It's safe to say no one envisioned the story of Jason Schmidt playing out as it has. Before the $47 million had even cleared the bank, the media was quick to anoint the signing of Jason Schmidt prior to the 2007 season as one of the best moves by any club. Three short years later, how perceptions have changed. Schmidt was down, but not out.

There are many things we can accuse Schmidt, and the Dodgers, of in regards to this situation; however, no one will ever find Schmidt guilty of not working hard to find his way back. Sure he's not the same person that disappeared so quickly in 2007, no one is expecting him to be. Yet, unlike the goat that was Andruw Jones, Schmidt spent years rehabbing, years rebuilding, and years tinkering away in the minors. He did it without a single complaint. He figured out what worked, what didn't, and, very quietly mind you, stood strong against the hatred bestowed upon him by the faithful followers that call Chavez Ravine their own.

That in itself has earned the respect of yours truly.

And now, after all those years, he's getting another chance. It's been a long time old friend. Welcome back.