Nomar to play for Mexico in WBC
01/14/2006
MEXICO CITY -- Dodgers first baseman Nomar Garciaparra will play for Mexico at the World Baseball Classic in March.
The native of Whittier, Calif., qualifies because of his Mexican parents, Mexican baseball league president Alejandro Hute said in a newspaper interview published Saturday.
A Dodgers official confirmed Garciaparra's WBC participation on Saturday afternoon.
The 32-year-old Garciaparra played for the Red Sox and the Cubs before signing with Los Angeles.
Mexico is in Group B of the world tournament, playing against the United States, Canada and South Africa. The team includes pitchers Oliver Perez of Pittsburgh, Rodrigo Lopez of Baltimore and Luis Ayala of Washington.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Around the Horn: Catcher
01/18/2006
LOS ANGELES -- The obvious thread running through general manager Ned Colletti's extreme makeover of the Dodgers roster is a preference of veterans over inexperience for the near term.
With a glaring exception behind the plate.
Colletti didn't want Oscar Robles, in his second season, to replace Cesar Izturis at shortstop, so he signed Rafael Furcal. He didn't want to rush Andy LaRoche or James Loney, so he signed Bill Mueller and Nomar Garciaparra to play the infield corners. He wasn't comfortable with Jason Repko replacing Milton Bradley, so he signed Kenny Lofton. Instead of Edwin Jackson and D.J. Houlton in the rotation, he signed Brett Tomko before trading for Jae Seo. He dealt promising prospects to bring in Danys Baez at $4 million rather than have Yhency Brazoban set up Eric Gagne.
Colletti could have continued the trend at catcher. Ramon Hernandez, Bengie Molina, Brad Ausmus and Japanese star Kenji Johjima were among the catchers on the free agent market this winter, but all Colletti did was hire Sandy Alomar Jr. as a backup.
Meaning, Colletti would keep the critical position of catcher in the hands of Dioner Navarro, at least initially -- ironic in that Navarro was one of the favorites of Colletti's dismissed predecessor, Paul DePodesta.
DePodesta acquired Navarro in one of his most criticized trades. He sent Shawn Green and $10 million to division rival Arizona last January for Navarro and three Minor League pitchers -- Danny Muegge, Beltran Perez and William Juarez.
Navarro, who will be 22 in February, began last season at Triple-A Las Vegas, overcame a nagging hand injury, then got hot enough in July to make the Triple-A All-Star Game. He was promoted and given Jason Phillips' starting catcher job for the final two months of the season, when he hit .273 with three homers and 14 RBIs.
A switch-hitter, Navarro batted .435 in 23 right-handed at-bats. The Venezuela native threw out eight of 41 potential basestealers, slightly better than the rate that got Phillips benched, but well off the 31 percent Navarro erased in Las Vegas.
Colletti's reluctance to pursue a veteran catcher had to do with more than just Navarro. The Dodgers also have in their system Russell Martin, considered by some in the organization to have a higher ceiling than Navarro.
Martin, one year older than Navarro with one fewer year of professional experience, played at Double-A Jacksonville last year and hit .311 with nine homers, 61 RBIs, 83 runs and nine more walks than strikeouts, leading to a .430 on-base percentage. Originally a third baseman, the native Canadian switched positions in 2003.
Martin is expected to start this season at Triple-A Las Vegas. Steve Yeager, the former All-Star catcher who mentored Martin as Jacksonville's hitting coach, will be promoted to Las Vegas along with Martin for the 2006 season.
So, with Navarro in the big leagues and Martin not far behind, the Dodgers found themselves too deep in quality young catchers to need an expensive veteran like Hernandez or Molina, who would block the paths of Navarro and Martin.
Rather than rush Martin to the Major Leagues to share time with Navarro, Colletti chose to support Navarro with Alomar, 39 and a 16-year veteran. He is nearing the end of a career that includes six All-Star appearances, but he has tailed off in recent years, in part because of numerous injuries. He has had 12 stints on the disabled list and seven knee operations, five on the left knee and two on the right.
Alomar played 46 games for the Rangers last year, and the Dodgers are hoping he doesn't play more than that for them. Alomar hit .273 without a home run in those 46 games, and he did not throw out any of 17 opposing basestealers. He won the Rookie of the Year Award and Gold Glove in 1990, and he appeared in the postseason six times, including two trips to the World Series with the Indians. He has five home runs in 10 postseason series. His best offensive year was 1997, when he hit .324 with 21 homers and 83 RBIs.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Little says a healthy club is key in 2006
01/19/2006
New Dodgers manager Grady Little fielded questions from fans during an online chat Thursday. Little discussed the challenges facing the team next season, like keeping healthy players on the field, and the approach he'll take managing the Dodgers in 2006.
vicenteromo: Mr. Little, welcome to the Dodgers. Can you tell us about your coaching staff? We know very little about Dave Jauss and Rich Donnelly.
Grady Little: Jauss has been with the Boston Red Sox for nine or 10 years and he was a coach there when I was coaching for Jimy Williams. Most recently, he's been the advanced scout with the Red Sox and he was a vital part of them winning the World Series. He's a very knowledgeable person about the game of baseball and he plays to win. Donnelly is probably known best for his time with Jim Leyland with the Pirates, Marlins and Rockies. He's a very organized person. He's got a lot of experience in the National League. His knowledge of the league and his ability to get along with people is great.
Pat_Falcone: Will we hit, run, steal and bunt a lot more?
Little: I manage a ballclub according to the talent on the field and we try to use good common sense with our judgments on when to do certain things. A lot of times, a stolen base is as effective as a hit and run, so sometimes we'll do that. I do like to hit and run if the personnel are the right people in order. I like action.
bigcheleone: Are the Dodgers trying to sign catcher Benjie Molina?
Little: Molina is still out there and the Dodger fans just have to take our word for it that Ned Colletti is going to do the very best that he can do to make this team as good as it can be. We're awfully proud of the young catchers we do have and we have high hopes for the young kids.
Base_Ball_2: In your opinion, what was the best acquisition of this offseason?
Little: It would be hard to pinpoint the best one until we see the results, but I'll tell you that we're awfully proud of the people we got for the infield and the pitching staff, and of course Kenny Lofton in center field. I think I'll wait until October to answer that more accurately.
andrewstebbins: What number do you plan on wearing in 2006?
Little: I will wear No. 9. That's the number that I wanted to wear in Boston but for some reason, they wouldn't let me.
Base_Ball_4: What is the team going to do about starting pitching?
Little: We've got some good people to pick from and we're going to pick the best five we have. I think the top of the pitching lineup pretty much speaks for itself with Derek Lowe, Brad Penny and Odalis Perez. We've got two more spots there for talented people like Brett Tomko, and other good people to pick from for that last spot.
laughtrack: For the Dodgers to go far, what will be your strategy in winning more games by two runs or less? Small ball or wait for the big inning?
Little: It's going to all boil down to the personnel that we have on the field at the time. It's going to boil down to the health of Eric Gagne and how effective Danys Baez is for us late in the ballgame. That will have a lot to do with it.
andrewstebbins: Grady, who is your favorite Dodger from years past?
Little: I'm kind of split between Roy Campanella and Sandy Koufax. I was always a fan of both of these guys a little more than the rest of them. Roy because he was the catcher and Sandy Koufax just because he was Sandy Koufax.
Joe_Gutierrez: Do you have an idea who the Opening Day pitcher will be?
Little: Well, if we were nailed to the wall and had to make a decision, I would say it would be Lowe. But fortunately, the season doesn't start for three more months.
Base_Ball_4: What position will Cesar Izturis play when he returns?
Little: We just look forward to him being able to return, at this moment in time, and hopefully he'll be receptive to whatever helps us be a better ballclub. Right now, our number one concern is just making sure he gets healthy.
skydecks: Personally, what do you feel will be your biggest challenge in managing the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2006?
Little: I think the biggest challenge will be to win as many games as we can on a daily basis and keep the players healthy. We feel like if we can keep them on the field and playing, we have more than enough talent to be at the top of the pack.
andrewstebbins: Mr. Little, when you were growing up, who was your baseball idol and what was your favorite team?
Little: When I first started recognizing baseball on television it was the mid '50s and at that time, I have to tell you, I was a New York Yankees fan because of Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle and Whitey Ford.
andrewstebbins: Grady, how do you want to run this club?
Little: Well, I'm a firm believer in everyone being as relaxed as they can be because they can be more productive in their jobs. That's the way we're going to run things. This team's going to have a lot of fun and there are no exceptions.
swampcooler: You obviously have a great passion and love for the game. Who were the major influences that instilled such a great attitude and who did you grow up rooting for when you were a young man?
Little: I think it was probably Bobby Cox once I got to play in the Minor Leagues. I was playing in the Yankees system and I saw a guy that wasn't that much older than me, to tell you the truth, as my manager in Double-A. I saw him progress and I was able to work with him for 10 years in the Braves organization and have grown to respect him even more. I'd have to say he was the one.
Base_Ball_2: With the departure of Elmer Dessens, I read that Edwin Jackson and D.J. Houlton were going to be moved from the starting rotation to long relief. Now that Jackson has been traded, who do you anticipate to be the primary long reliever?
Little: I think we have several candidates in that category and to start naming them wouldn't be fair because there are also some that are in competition for a starting job.
Pat_Falcone: Where will they try Joel Guzman, in the outfield or at first base?
Little: He's going to come to Spring Training with the idea of a position change in mind, and the talk of first base and the outfield has been brought up. He's certainly capable of playing both positions. With a guy that swings the bat the way they say he does, I think we'll definitely try to find him a place to play.
grandpabill: How is Gagne coming along and will 2006 be a more healthy year?
Little: We certainly hope so. From what we're hearing from him and the Dodgers, there's all indications that he'll be 100 percent by the time Spring Training is over, for sure, and that's all we know at this time.
robinfax: Nomar Garciaparra has MVP ability. Is he 100 percent ready to go?
Little: He's 100 percent physically ready to go and about 200 percent mentally ready to play for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
fawnkyjunk: Have you gotten a chance to see the kids down on the farm yet?
Little: No, I haven't. But I look forward to that in Spring Training.
Eric_Mendez: How much say have you had in the moves the club has made since you've been manager?
Little: I don't know a percentage, but I do know that before Ned has made any moves, he gets a pretty thorough investigation from as many people who might be able to tell him something. He leaves no stone unturned when he's looking to make a move.
spottedowl: How important is it to have a set number of lefties in the bullpen, either one or two? Or are you looking to bring the best relievers with the club no matter which way they pitch?
Little: I'll tell you what, I'm not a firm believer that you need to have a left-handed pitcher in any situation just because he's left-handed. So many times, you have a better arm in the bullpen but some managers try to protect themselves by bringing in the lefty to face the lefty, even if it's not the right move. I'm not a manager that's going to go on that percentage. And the same thing goes for our left-handed hitters against left-handed pitchers.
garrett_m: How are Rafael Furcal and Jeff Kent recovering from their surgeries? Are they going to be ready for the start of the season?
Little: We have no questions that they'll both be ready. I talked to Jeff last night on the phone and he's doing outstanding. He's expecting to get the wrappings off today or tomorrow. He hasn't really tested it yet, but he feels confident that he'll be ready to go. I haven't talked to Rafael in a little bit, but he said he'd be there early to work with pitchers and catchers.
calidude36: How do you feel about Nomar playing in the World Baseball Classic knowing his past groin injuries?
Little: It's a good thing for Nomar. I'm proud for him and I think that we're going to be concerned with anyone who has past injuries in their history, but he could hurt his groin taking ground balls in Vero Beach just as easily. He will be active and will be playing in games and he feels 100 percent physically fit, so there you go. We're certainly not thinking about him getting hurt.
dodgerfan19: Who do you think will rise to become a leader in the clubhouse?
Little: That'll probably be the guy with the highest batting average or the pitcher with the most wins! That's a tough question for me to answer now, but it's something we'll get a feel for once we get there and get to working.
Pat_D: Have you spoken to Baez about his role? Is he more accepting than previously reported?
Little: I have spoken to him a couple times and this kid just wants a chance to win and that's what drives him right now. He knows that this is an important year for him in whatever job he's in on our ballclub. He just wants to do whatever he can to do help us win.
Base_Ball_2: Who is your favorite Major League Baseball player?
Little: By the time the end of Spring Training comes around, I'll have 25 favorites and they'll be wearing blue.
vicenteromo: What does Bill Mueller bring to the Dodgers?
Little: Mueller brings a professional baseball player to the clubhouse. That's all he lives for -- to play baseball. Once people watch him on a daily basis, they're going to love him. You never know he's there until the game starts and then you love watching him. You wish you had 25 of him to start the season.
phyperion: How is Jayson Werth progressing? Will he be starting in left this season or someone else like Jason Repko?
Little: He's progressing fine. I don't really know his ETA in terms of being ready to play in a game, but hopefully it'll be toward the end of Spring Training.
dodgerho: Have you learned to hate the Giants yet?
Little: No, not just yet. They're just like everybody else that we're going to play against. I don't hate them, I just want to beat them every time we play them.
hbdodger: Where does this team stack up in the National League West, as well as the NL as a whole?
Little: Heck, I don't know. You've got to talk to somebody higher up than me to answer that accurately now. But if we can keep everybody on the field, we like our chances.
Joe_Gutierrez: Do you see J.D. Drew ready to go come Opening Day?
Little: At this point in time, I don't see anything that would keep him from playing Opening Day. We're going to take it real easy with him in Spring Training because we're not trying to win the Grapefruit League. We're going to ease him into it to make sure he's ready to go on Opening Day.
Alonzo_Lopez: What is it about the Dodgers you like the most?
Little: I like everyone out there that works around that stadium, from the ownership to the people working down on the field. The people, all they want to do is be a part of a winning organization again and that's all we want to be.
Little: Thank you all for being a part of the chat today. We're really looking forward to Spring Training and we hope to see you all in Vero Beach or Dodger Stadium soon.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Sarah's Take: Baseball and race
01/20/2006
This past Monday our nation celebrated Martin Luther King Day. The fallen civil rights leader influenced our nation, and baseball might have influenced his fight. Martin Luther King had a dream that all men would be treated equal. He thought the United States of America had not realized that during his lifetime. He was right, and my nation has not realized it yet. Though Major League Baseball still has some racial issues, it has been an example for every nation in the world for its ability to work with different nationalities.
Before Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. became famous for fighting for civil rights, baseball was integrating the races. As with every battle for changing the status quo, integrating baseball was difficult and unpopular. However, it was desperately needed. Now I can't comprehend baseball without people of color.
It is hard for me to realize when my parents were becoming baseball fans that no players with African origin were allowed to play in the Major Leagues. I cannot believe people would deny Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and Barry Bonds the opportunity to play in the Major Leagues because of their skin color. It seems so absurd not to allow a person to play baseball because they have darker skin color than some people. It is like I can't be a baseball writer because I am a brunette. My hair color has nothing to do with my ability to write.
Fifty-nine years ago many people thought skin color mattered. Most people did not want the races mixing. This society was segregated. There was a pretense of separate but equal. However, any victim of segregation can tell you that separate is never equal! Nobody can make the same thing in two places.
Before Major League Baseball allowed players of African descent to play, they played in the Negro Leagues. Some people thought the Negro Leagues had more talent than the Major Leagues. Although sometimes some Major Leaguers set up barnstorming tours where they played players from the Negro Leagues, it was difficult to compare the performances between the leagues. Was Josh Gibson better than Babe Ruth? Was Satchel Paige the best pitcher and the winner of the most games in baseball history?
No one knows because the players did not face each other, except in a rare exhibition game. The forced segregation between Major League Baseball and the Negro Leagues has tainted baseball forever. However, baseball integrated about seven years before the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that separate was not equal. Major League Baseball was a leader in the Civil Rights movement.
Increasingly, the Major Leagues could not ignore the talent in the Negro Leagues and the potential revenue that could be generated by having African-Americans in Major League Baseball. People who wanted to integrate Major League Baseball understood it had to be done carefully. They knew their decision would be unpopular but needed to be done to help professional baseball thrive.
Branch Rickey, the president of the Dodgers during the 1940s, was a deeply religious man who didn't attend a baseball game on Sunday. He wanted to integrate Major League Baseball. He waited for the right time. He searched for a player with some particular characteristics. He developed a plan for the integration of the Major Leagues and some of the Minor Leagues. Secretly Rickey sent a few scouts to the Negro Leagues to make a list of suitable players for the "great experiment."
Rickey wanted an educated African-American who could relate to whites as equals. Rickey didn't want an older player who was a star of the Negro Leagues, but he didn't want a green kid who couldn't handle the enormous pressure of being the first African-American in Major League Baseball. Rickey knew the player must be excellent, but he must be able to adjust to the style of play in the Major Leagues. He wanted a player who could turn the other cheek when he heard racial slurs and had physical abuse. The player must be able to be alone. The player must have inner strength and confidence in his ability to play baseball but not be overconfident.
Rickey used nonviolent methods to integrate Major League Baseball. He did this before the United States armed forces were integrated. It can be argued that the successful integration of Major League Baseball encouraged the rest of the country to desegregate.
Rickey chose Jackie Roosevelt Robinson to break the color barrier. He had an experience in integrated colleges. Although he lived with prejudice while he was growing up in California, he had opportunities to better himself and work with whites.
Although Robinson had to put up with segregation on the road and with nasty racial prejudice almost everywhere, Rickey was the architect of how to integrate Major League Baseball. Rickey refused to let Robinson fight back no matter what treatment he suffered. Although Robinson is considered to be a civil rights movement leader, I think Rickey should be too because his willingness to challenge the status quo made baseball an example for racial integration.
Major League Baseball still doesn't have enough racial diversity in management, but it is getting better slowly. In 2006 the Dodgers will have three coaches of color.
This March, America is hosting the World Baseball Classic, in which many countries are competing. This excites me and most baseball fans. Peter O'Malley, the former Dodgers owner, had a dream of baseball being played in every country. He wanted the World Series to be a real "world" series. With the efforts of Rickey, Robinson, and Martin Luther King, this dream is starting to be realized. Let's hope Major League Baseball continues as a leader for civil rights for everyone.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Kemp sets goals high for 2006
01/20/2006
LOS ANGELES -- Otherwise considered loaded with talent, the Dodgers farm system has been considered thin in the outfield, although Matt Kemp is doing his part to change that perception.
Kemp, 21, is a right-handed hitter taken in the sixth round of the 2003 First-Year Player Draft after being heavily recruited to play Division I basketball (he's 6-4, 215 pounds).
Despite missing four weeks with a wrist injury, he had a breakout season in 2005 at Class A Vero Beach, slugging 27 homers with 90 RBIs, 23 stolen bases and a .306 batting average in 418 at-bats. His home runs and a .590 slugging percentage were Vero Beach franchise records. He advanced to the Arizona Fall League, where he hit .383 with a .606 slugging percentage and dramatically cut down on his strikeouts.
That earned him an invitation to his first Major League camp as a non-roster player. Management's purpose in bringing Kemp to camp is to give the new Major League staff and front office officials their first chance to see Kemp in action. Kemp views the opportunity as more than just introductory.
"The big leagues, that's my goal for next season," said Kemp. "Whatever happens, happens. But I'm working out hard in Arizona. You never know."
After a breakout season at Vero Beach, Kemp continued to impress in Arizona in the Fall League. He went 4-for-4 with two home runs in the league's championship game. He's expected to open the 2006 season at Double-A Jacksonville.
"My mentality is that nobody can get me out," he said. "I had confidence going into every game. I've heard some people compare my game to Derrek Lee. It's exciting to hear that. I have a power swing, sometimes it gets too long and I have to shorten it up."
Kemp not only has a power bat, but a throwing arm that can handle right field and the ball-chasing speed and instincts to handle center.
"I love it in center," said Kemp. "That's where I played most last year after trying it in Spring Training for the first time. I just fell in love with it. I can play all three, but I like being the leader in the outfielder."
Club officials were even more impressed with the way Kemp responded to the added responsibility of team leader after Andy LaRoche was promoted out of Vero Beach earlier in the season.
"I'm not saying I was trying to get out from his shadow, because we're good friends and we've played on every team together, but everybody thinks I played better after he was gone," said Kemp. "I think the team just jelled. And people forget, I hurt my wrist sliding early in Spring Training and I was out four weeks and around the time I got healthy, he got promoted."
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Pitcher Ishii returns to Japan
01/20/2006
TOKYO -- Former New York Mets pitcher Kazuhisa Ishii is returning to Japan after four seasons in the Major Leagues.
Ishii, who was released by the Mets in December, agreed to a two-year contract on Friday with the Central League's Yakult Swallows, team officials said.
Ishii, 32, played for the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2002-2004, compiling a 36-25 record. He was 3-9 in 19 games for the Mets last season.
Before leaving for the majors, Ishii played for the Swallows and had a 78-46 record with a 3.38 ERA and 1,277 strikeouts in 244 games over 10 seasons in Japan.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Robinson Foundation honors inspiration
01/23/2006
NEW YORK -- As the Jackie Robinson Foundation's celebration of its inspiration's birthday progressed Monday evening, archival action footage of No. 42 in his old Brooklyn Dodgers uniform flickered on LCD screens ringing the ESPN Zone's reception room.
The baseball footage was almost an incongruity for the occasion.
Jackie Robinson played Major League Baseball for 10 years. His foundation, committed to educating young people both in the classroom and in real life, has been around for 33 years. His legacy would appear to have moved light years beyond anything bordered by foul lines.
Almost an incongruity, but not quite.
After all, MLB's Rookie of the Year Award still bears the name of the man who, when he took the field in 1947, crossed the gravest line of them all. Ten years later, he took a .311 lifetime average into retirement. Such societal and baseball feats will never fade.
"He will always have his baseball legacy, but he was also an amazing husband and loving father who worked for social change," said Sharon Robinson, his daughter. "So we know he is so proud of our scholars, and our growing list of alumni."
Jackie Robinson died more than 33 years ago. He would have been 87 on Jan. 31 -- a mention which brought gasps of realization from the foundation sponsors and benefactors invited to the fourth annual formal observance of his birthday.
This celebration, hosted by ESPN Zone for the third straight January, is one of the rare public bows by an organization that has championed African-American students for a third of a century.
"This is one of our few events where we don't have a fundraising agenda, but stop and think about the man," said Della Britton Baeza, president and CEO of the foundation. "It's an event that inspires us, kind of gives us the go-ahead for another year of perpetuating his legacy."
Founded by Rachel Robinson mere months after her husband's death, the national public non-profit foundation has funded more than 1,100 scholarships. For the current academic year, it is providing $1.8 million of support to 266 students in 33 states.
One of them, Chanel Cathey, underscored how Jackie Robinson's impact has come to extend far beyond a field. When she became involved in the foundation, she did some obligatory Robinson research -- but not into batting averages or stolen bases or such, but into his business savvy and entrepreneurship.
"Learning more about his various involvements was very inspiring," said Cathey, a Fordham sophomore majoring in communications. "It's something I'd like to mold my life after."
If there is a seismic shift in Robinson's legacy, it is very appropriate, nodded Ernie Banks. The Hall of Famer, now active in the foundation as a member of its Los Angeles Advisory Committee, remembers his contemporary and friend not for his baseball skills but for his dimensions.
"Baseball was just a pastime for him. He had greater things to do in life," Banks said. "He was a special person not controlled by people or things he saw. ... He had his own mission in life.
"Jackie Robinson started housing projects in Manhattan, he was on the board of a bank, he was an executive with Chock Full O' Nuts Coffee, he worked with Nelson Rockefeller. And he inspired people to move on and contribute the same way. All he thought about was making this a better world. Not playing ball ... although he did that great."
In his memory, his foundation still does great.
"He lives in those of us who work hard to fulfill his mission of equality and opportunity," said Allison Davis, vice president of the foundation. "For all of us, he is very much alive."
The first man whose uniform number was universally retired by MLB, whose clubs commemorate his historic debut every April 15, Robinson was keenly aware of the complex requisites of a successful life. For him, that meant options far removed from a base path. For today's JRF scholars, that means education not confined between the covers of a textbook.
"Our comprehensive mentoring programs is what distinguishes us from other scholarship programs in the country," Baeza said. "We offer career development and internship placement."
Corporations and individuals support the foundation by responding to its mission. Major League ballplayers and teams who have funded full scholarships include Derek Jeter, Mo Vaughn, Royce Clayton and both New York clubs.
While there is no offseason for fundraising, the JRF's keynote affair will be its annual awards banquet, March 6 at the Waldorf Astoria hotel, once again hosted by Bill Cosby.
"Jackie Robinson's whole life was making this a better world," Banks said, "and to help people do just that. A philanthropist creates and gives. That's what Jackie did. That's what he really was."
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Mailbag: What will Baez's role be?
01/23/2006
I read that Danys Baez will be a free agent after this season. Doesn't he have one more year of team controlled arbitration eligibility left?--Andrew S., Los Angeles
At the end of the 2006 season, Baez will have five years and 102 days of Major League service. Under ordinary circumstances, he would not qualify for free agency. However, after being released by Cleveland following the 2003 season, without even enough service time to qualify for arbitration he signed an unusual free agent contract with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays that guaranteed him $6 million for two years with a club option for 2006 at $4 million. The contract also allowed Baez to declare free agency after the 2006 season if the Devil Rays picked up the option, which they did. So, unless the Dodgers agree to an extension, Baez will be a free agent after the season.
Does the trade for Baez spell the end of Eric Gagne as a Dodger after this season?--Abel M., Riverside, Calif.
Gagne's Dodgers future will depend on his health and his financial demands. Baez was acquired to be Gagne's primary setup man this year and, if Gagne is hurt or unable to close, to save games. Baez can opt for free agency at the end of the season as well. Gagne will receive $10 million this year and Baez $4 million. If management gets its wish from a financial standpoint, it would probably prefer to turn over the closing job in 2007 to a Jonathan Broxton or Yhency Brazoban and save millions. If Gagne does rebound physically, however, his status as one of the most popular players in recent Dodgers history will undoubtedly become a key issue in the club's decision. But first, he must show he is healthy.
How do the Dodgers Minor League teams and prospects compare to other top programs?--Sean A., Chico, Calif.
Each April, Baseball America ranks each organization's Minor League talent. Entering the 2005 season, the publication rated the Dodgers No. 2 in baseball, behind only the Angels and followed by the Milwaukee Brewers. The St. Louis Cardinals were rated 30th. Among the publication's comments: "While other teams have focused more on collegians, [Dodgers scouting director Logan] White has succeeded taking preps such as right-hander Chad Billingsley and first baseman James Loney and juco players such as third baseman Andy LaRoche and catcher Russell Martin ... they put seven players and signed eight on our Top 100 Prospects List, more than any organization."
Are the Dodgers still looking for a left-handed reliever or did they answer that need?--Tyrone P., Yuma, Ariz.
A little of both. They made no major acquisition. Kelly Wunsch, who held the job until undergoing ankle and hip surgery during the season, was invited back as a non-roster player and is probably the favorite if he's healthy. Hong-Chih Kuo, the 24-year-old with the two Tommy John operations who struck out 10 in 5 1/3 innings during his September promotion from Double-A, is back and probably has the highest ceiling. In the Jae Seo trade with the Mets, the Dodgers also acquired Tim Hamulack, a journeyman Minor Leaguer who was whacked in a brief September trial. Eric Stults, another Tommy John surgery recipient, is the only other left-hander invited to big-league camp, but he's been a starter.
In regards to Cesar Izturis, what really is Tommy John surgery?--Luke M., Pine Grove, Pa.
It was invented by Dodgers medical director Dr. Frank Jobe, first performed on pitcher Tommy John in 1974 and is required when the ulnarcollateral ligament that stabilizes the elbow tears and cannot be repaired. Urged to experiment by John, Jobe harvested an extraneous tendon (from John's calf, now sometimes taken from the opposite forearm) and reconstructed the ligament by drilling holes into both sides of the elbow and weaving the transplanted tendon through the holes to form a new ligament. John returned to win more than 164 games and the operation, named after the left-hander, now is commonplace. Pitchers are the most common patients. Izturis is an infielder and his injury is somewhat different in that it is a side effect of an arthritic condition on the opposite side of the elbow. Compensating for the pain from the arthritis, Izturis put undue strain on the ligament and it stretched out of shape. Because of the arthritis component, and because arthritis is generally permanent, it is not clear to what degree Izturis will recover.
Where does Grady Little stand on running-game strategy?--John J., Steamboat Springs, Colo.
Although Little managed in the American League, he also trained managing in the Atlanta Braves farm system. Here's what he said in a recent dodgers.com chat when asked about the running game: "I manage a ballclub according to the talent on the field and we try to use good common sense with our judgments on when to do certain things. A lot of times, a stolen base is as effective as a hit and run, so sometimes we'll do that. I do like to hit and run if the personnel are the right people in order. I like action."
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Dodgers invite pair of vets to camp
01/24/2006
LOS ANGELES -- Catcher Pat Borders and left-handed reliever Joe Beimel are the latest non-roster players signed by the Dodgers and invited to Major League training camp.
Borders will be 43 in May and he made his Major League debut in 1988, the last year the Dodgers won the World Series. Speaking of which, Borders was the World Series MVP in 1992 with his original club, the Toronto Blue Jays. He also appeared in the 1993 World Series with Toronto and has five postseason appearances.
Borders has played in the Major Leagues during 17 different seasons, and the Dodgers will be his 12th organization. He started the 2005 season with Milwaukee's Triple-A affiliate in Nashville and was traded to Seattle on May 20. He appeared in 39 games with the Mariners, hitting .197 with one homer and seven RBIs, and was cut loose at the end of July.
Borders figures to back up top catching prospect Russell Martin at Triple-A Las Vegas, where another catcher and World Series tri-MVP, Steve Yeager, is the new hitting coach.
Beimel, 29 in April, appeared in seven games for Tampa Bay last year with a 3.27 ERA, but spent his first six professional seasons with Pittsburgh, where current Dodgers vice president of scouting and player development Roy Smith was assistant general manager.
Beimel played most of the last two seasons at Triple-A.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Dodgers announce Minor League staff
01/24/2006
LOS ANGELES -- Six former Dodgers Major Leaguers will serve this year on the organization's Minor League staff, which was announced Tuesday by Roy Smith, vice president of scouting and player development.
The six are Jerry Royster, manager at Triple-A Las Vegas; Steve Yeager, promoted from hitting coach at Double-A Jacksonville to Las Vegas; Ken Howell, promoted from pitching coach at Jacksonville to Las Vegas; Bob Welch, pitching coach at Rookie League Ogden, Garey Ingram, hitting coach at Class A Columbus; and Dave Anderson, the organization's Minor League infield coordinator.
The Las Vegas positions opened when pitching coach Roger McDowell became Atlanta's Major League pitching coach and Mariano Duncan was promoted to the Dodgers' Major League coaching staff.
Jon Debus, who served as the Major League bullpen coach in 2005, returns to his previous role of Minor League catching coordinator.
The new Minor League pitching coordinator is Marty Reed, a coach in the organization the last seven years. Reed replaces Rick Honeycutt, who was promoted to Major League pitching coach.
Five former Major Leaguers have joined the organization: Bill Robinson, the organization's new hitting coordinator; Mike Easler, hitting coach at Jacksonville; Danny Darwin, pitching coach at Jacksonville; Lance Parrish, manager at Ogden; and Richie Lewis, pitching coach at Columbus.
The hitting coordinator job opened when George Hendrick was added to Tampa Bay's Major League coaching staff.
John Shoemaker and Travis Barbary return as managers at Jacksonville and Columbus, respectively. With Scott Little, who managed Class A Vero Beach last year, leaving to become field coordinator for Washington, Luis Salazar was promoted from the Gulf Coast League to manage Vero Beach, and Juan Bustabad moves from Ogden to manage the Gulf Coast League affiliate.
"Our Minor League coaches and instructors have a wide variety of experience that will continue to help our young prospects work their way to the Major Leagues," said Smith. "We're excited to bring in some very talented coaches to complement our valuable returning staff from last season."
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Around the Horn: Corner infielders
01/25/2006
LOS ANGELES -- Fans of James Loney and Andy LaRoche, their time will come.
But now's not the time.
New general manager Ned Colletti had seen enough of the 2005 Dodgers to know that the corner infield positions needed help. He hadn't seen enough of the talented Dodgers farm system to know if prized prospects Loney or LaRoche, neither having seen even a Triple-A pitch, were ready.
So Colletti went shopping for batting champs and landed a pair. First, he signed Bill Mueller to a two-year contract to play third base. Then he got creative and landed Nomar Garciaparra for one year to play first base. Both played for new manager Grady Little in Boston.
Colletti figures he knows what he'll get from Mueller, having seen him play five seasons when they were together in San Francisco.
"Every successful team has true baseball players with the makeup, drive and desire of Bill Mueller," Colletti said. "His ability to hit from both sides of the plate will give Grady additional maneuverability."
Third base was a revolving door for the Dodgers last year. After getting 48 home runs and 121 RBIs from third baseman Adrian Beltre the year before, the Dodgers opened the 2005 season with Jose Valentin at third base, but he blew out his knee. When the dust had settled, the Dodgers used seven different third basemen, totaling 61 RBIs.
The switch-hitting Mueller, 34, has a .292 lifetime average in 10 seasons. In 2003 he won the American League batting title and Silver Slugger Award with a career-high .326, 19 home runs and 85 RBIs. He hit .295 with 10 homers and 62 RBIs for Boston last year.
With Garciaparra, the decision wasn't driven by the defensive position, but by the former All-Star's offensive potential. Colletti needed a bat for the fifth spot in the order to protect cleanup hitter Jeff Kent. Preferring not to deal away prospects, Colletti decided Garciaparra provided the most value as a proven hitter.
"He adds a legitimate threat to the heart of our lineup and is a true competitor," said Colletti. "He's extremely athletic, versatile and mentally tough, and he is a tremendous addition to the team."
He also is a physical risk. The 32-year-old missed about a half of each of the last two seasons, first with a wrist injury, last year with a torn groin muscle. He has a .320 lifetime batting average, five All-Star appearances and was the AL Rookie of the Year in 1997.
Garciaparra has the greatest challenge. He not only is playing a new position, but predecessors Hee-Seop Choi and Olmedo Saenz actually finished the season with respectable platoon numbers at first base (a combined 31 homers and 104 RBIs).
Choi, however, had another erratic season, looking like Babe Ruth for a week, but also disappearing offensively for stretches that seemed endless. He is expected to back up Garciaparra and provide a left-handed threat off the bench. Oscar Robles and Willy Aybar have experience at third base, as does Saenz, although his strength is his bat off the bench, not his glove in the field.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Honeycutt ready to guide Dodgers staff
01/27/2006
LOS ANGELES -- In the credential department, new Dodgers pitching coach Rick Honeycutt lacks very little.
"There isn't a pitcher on this staff who is in a position that I haven't been in," said Honeycutt. "I was a starter and a reliever. I had good years and bad. I can feel their pain."
That's figuratively and literally, because Honeycutt also had to battle back from arm injuries during a remarkable 21-season playing career.
Honeycutt, who retired from active duty in 1997 and spent the last four years as the Dodgers' Minor League pitching coordinator, was recently promoted to pitching coach for new manager Grady Little.
In addition to his playing experience, Honeycutt has familiarity with top pitching prospects in the Dodgers farm system like Chad Billingsley, Jonathan Broxton, Justin Orenduff and Scott Elbert. He would seem to be the perfect fit for a franchise hoping to transition from expensive veteran pitchers to homegrown youngsters.
"We've added some depth with Brett Tomko and Jae Seo to our returning three of Derek Lowe, Brad Penny and Odalis Perez," Honeycutt said of the starting rotation. "And we've got a lot of young arms on the way. We have a good combination, so hopefully we can stay good for a long time."
That's the way the Dodgers did it a long time ago, as Honeycutt can recall, because he participated. He was acquired by the Dodgers during the 1983 stretch drive in a trade with the Texas Rangers, at the time leaving the American League with the ERA title.
He pitched four more years with the Dodgers, appearing in the postseason in 1983 and '85, until being traded to the A's for rookie Tim Belcher at the end of the 1987 season. A starter for 10 years, he suddenly was told it was time for a job change. To Tony La Russa's bullpen he went, setting up for another starter-turned-reliever, future Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley.
Honeycutt thus embarked on his second career as a reliever, which lasted another decade. With the A's, Honeycutt went to two World Series, winning in 1989. He was the oldest active player in the Major Leagues when he retired at age 43.
Honeycutt, now 51, said he hopes to handle the Dodgers bullpen the way the A's did.
"Each guy has to know his responsibility and role," he said. "In Oakland, everybody's job was to get the ball to Eck, just like we've got to get the ball to [Eric] Gagne."
Honeycutt said that, from everything he's been told, Gagne is expected to be fully healed from last year's elbow surgery by the start of Spring Training.
"I have no reason not to believe that he'll be healthy and able to do what he's done in the past," Honeycutt said of the Dodgers closer, who can be a free agent after the 2006 season.
Just in case, however, general manager Ned Colletti reinforced the staff by acquiring proven closer Danys Baez. If Gagne is healthy, Baez becomes a $4 million setup man and everyone moves down a chair in the bullpen pecking order, with Yhency Brazoban pitching the seventh inning, Lance Carter taking over Giovanni Carrara's middle role and Broxton being groomed to step in if and when both Gagne and Baez are gone.
The Dodgers finished 12th in league ERA last year at 4.38, the third-worst mark in Los Angeles history. Lowe gave up a career high in home runs. Perez made only 19 starts and had a career-worst ERA of 4.56. Tomko lost a career-high 15 games. Gagne didn't pitch after June. Brazoban lost 10 games and the closer's job. There's no clear left-hander in the bullpen.
"The game hasn't changed. They still have to throw the ball over the plate and get guys out," Honeycutt said. "My job is to get each of them to pitch to his potential. I'm on their side. I'm bringing my knowledge to them and I'll do whatever I can to help them succeed. The Dodgers have always prided themselves on pitching. I hope we can put together a staff that puts us back on top again."
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Dodgers WIN gives women an edge
02/06/2006
LOS ANGELES -- It's early February, and more than 100 women ages 21 through 55 arrived at the Dodger Stadium Dugout Club for the Dodgers' first Women's Initiative and Network (WIN) event of 2006.
Launched in May of 2005, Dodgers WIN offers women special access to the game experience through events and ongoing programs, including clinics, seminars, and forums involving Dodgers players, coaches and staff. WIN takes an active role in promoting community involvement and educational programs, and gives women invaluable professional and social networking opportunities.
"The turnout here is beyond our expectations," said Dodgers president and vice chairman Jamie McCourt, who created WIN. "The women here have been so supportive of what we are trying to accomplish in trying to bring more and more women into the Dodger family is so rewarding."
McCourt, who attends every WIN-related event, especially enjoys the networking events like this one where women get together and find mutual interests through baseball and to kick off what will be happening this season.
"Tonight is really to introduce them to all the opportunities programmatically that we've got going," said McCourt, who is the highest-ranking female executive in Major League Baseball. "Whether it's clinics, whether it's breakfasts, whether it's opportunities in the Dodger program, networking with one another or sports in general -- understanding the rules, understanding what their children can do at the stadium. There are so many things we want to talk about."
One woman who was attending her first WIN event was Debi Little, the wife of new Dodgers manager Grady Little.
"This is amazing," said Little, who spent the day house-hunting with her husband. "In the past few years, I've seen more and more women going to the ballpark, and here is a great opportunity for women to really understand what is happening on the field and behind the scenes. And not only that -- to network with each other -- they may have some commonalities outside of baseball as well, so it's a wonderful opportunity for women."
Little saw tonight's event as a great way to educate herself not only about WIN, but also what the Dodger organization is about.
"Living on the East Coast all my life, I grew up really more a Yankees fan, and so I know the East Coast teams," said Little. "But, believe it or not, I watched when Steve Garvey and Ron Cey, Davey Lopes and those guys played. I admired the Dodgers from afar -- even though it wasn't the team I'd pull for to win the World Series and they did (in 1981). But I really watched the Dodgers at that time and remembered those guys."
So imagine Mrs. Little's thrill that the two guest speakers at the event were Garvey and Cey, who are both big supporters of WIN.
"I think this is a great idea," said Cey, the Dodgers' third baseman from 1973-82. "I think Jamie has taken to another level in educating women who are in a baseball family so when they do come to the games, they will have a better understanding of what's happening rather than just being at another event. Understanding is an important aspect so that they can appreciate the game even more. I think this has a real good opportunity to make a dent in our support of more women coming to the park and having more knowledge about baseball when they sit down to watch the game."
For Garvey, who is married and has five daughters, women have always been important in his life -- especially when he was offered his first professional contract in 1968.
"I always love talking about my mom closing the Dodgers deal," said Garvey, who is still on the Hall of Fame ballot after an All-Star and MVP career with both the Dodgers and Padres from 1969-87. "When I was drafted out of Michigan State, I was offered $25,000 and all of a sudden, mom took over and it was up to $40,000, a new car and my education was paid for.
"The influence of women in business is so dramatic nowadays, and Jamie's initiative is, I think, well thought-out, building momentum and very much needed as a woman who is a leader in the business world."
Increased interest in the initiative has attracted new sponsors to join WIN in supporting its vision, including Smashbox Cosmetics, the presenting sponsor of WIN Fan Appreciation Day, which is scheduled for July 29. Trader Joe's will be the presenting sponsor of Game 3 of the Dodgers WIN mini-plan on June 1, when the Dodgers take on the Phillies. In addition to the new sponsors, Macy's, Staples and JJ Creations Inc. are continuing their support of WIN and select WIN events. McCourt is thrilled with the response she has gotten from people who attended past WIN events.
"My favorite things are when women write me and say, 'My husband wanted to be down on the field with me, and he was so jealous that I got to be with Jeff Kent or Tommy Lasorda,'" said McCourt with a smile. "I've also received really poignant letters from women who have said, 'In all my life, this was the best day I have ever had -- my son came with me and he was so proud of me that I was learning about baseball.' It doesn't get much better than that."
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Dodgers infield recalls glory days
02/06/2006
LOS ANGELES -- The infield that played together at Dodger Stadium for a record 8 1/2 years was back together again on Monday, sans Davey Lopes, the second baseman, who cancelled at the last minute.
They last walked off the field as a unit in their Dodgers uniform nearly 25 years ago. The Rat went first, to Oakland, leaving Ron Cey, Bill Russell and Steve Garvey to break in Steve Sax for a year. The Garv then jumped to the Padres, the Penguin to the Cubs and Ropes eventually into retirement.
"It's hard to believe that 25 years has gone by so quickly," Cey said before he and the bunch were honored with a special award by the Southern California Sports Broadcasters during their annual luncheon at the posh Lakeside Golf Club. "But it has. Where did it all go?"
The last time they were in the starting lineup together was Oct. 18, 1981, at Yankee Stadium -- in the sixth game of the World Series. Manager Tommy Lasorda, almost on instinct, penciled them in at the top of the order -- Lopes, Russell, Garvey and Cey.
"Unusual," Cey said. "It didn't happen very often. But I don't think he did it on purpose. Just a fluke."
Ironically, when the game ended and that group had its only World Series championship, Cey wasn't on the field. He had to pull himself out in the sixth inning, feeling the after-effects of the beaning he took courtesy of a Goose Gossage fastball in Game 5. With two out and nobody on in the ninth inning and a 9-2 victory secure, Lopes committed an error on the last ball hit to him as a Dodger. Bob Watson then flied out to Kenny Landreaux in center, ending it.
"It was a great night for all of us," said Cey, who shared the MVP Award of that series with Pedro Guerrero and Steve Yeager. "We had come close so many other times. For us to put the final earmark on our career together, was, I believe, our ultimate achievement, and certainly mine."
As only the Dodgers can, they will celebrate the 25th anniversary of that World Series victory all season, culminating with a grand reunion of the team on Sept. 16. Last year, it was the 50th anniversary of the those 1955 Boys of Brooklyn, who finally vanquished the hated Yankees after losing to them in 1941, 1947, 1949, 1952 and 1953.
This year, it will be the Lads of Los Angeles, who were finally able to overcome those Damn Yankees after World Series losses in 1977 and 1978. Add a five-game trouncing by the Oakland A's in the 1974 Fall Classic and the road for the core of that team, "The Infield," was finally complete.
"As a whole, I always thought we were greater than our individual parts," Garvey said on Monday.
During their years together, they were responsible for four pennants, one title, 21 All-Star appearances, five Gold Gloves, a National League MVP, an NL Championship Series MVP and that share of the 1981 World Series MVP.
Their time together began on June 23, 1973, during the final years when the reserve clause bound players perpetually to each Major League team and free agency wasn't even a dream. It was just before the second game of a doubleheader against the Big Red Machine in Chavez Ravine, and the late Walter Alston meandered over to Garvey in the clubhouse and asked him if he'd ever played first base.
"Sure," Garvey, the heretofore third baseman with an erratic arm, responded to the legendary skipper.
Garvey never missed another game there -- regular or postseason -- until after his Dodgers tenure ended in 1982. His infieldmates didn't play all the games, but they were around for most of them.
"If we had been playing together today, we would've been part owners of the team," said Russell, who later went on to manage the Dodgers.
Those were the Dodgers of Walter O'Malley and later his son Peter. The O'Malley family wrested the franchise from Branch Rickey in 1950, and held on against the rising tide of baseball's swelling economics for more than 45 years. Their managers for most of that time were Alston and Lasorda. Their general managers were Buzzy Bavasi, Al Campanis and Fred Claire, who introduced the boys on Monday.
"You can't think about any one of the names without thinking about all four names," Claire said about the quartet.
All that consistency has given way to the current state of affairs at Dodger Stadium where the ownership, general manager and managers seem to change now with the swiftness of a Sandy Koufax fastball.
Garvey and Cey work in marketing for the Dodgers under owners Jamie and Frank McCourt, who see great value in tying the present to the past. Then again, the pair is a reminder of a much better time. The Dodgers captured the World Series title again in 1988. But since then, they've won just one postseason game.
"What people want is a reminder of what it was like," Cey said. "The more you can see past successes of the team, it gives the fans hope. When you're in the moment, you don't reflect. But can you imagine what it would be like for the Dodgers to go to the World Series in this era four times in eight years? This city would be turned upside down."
Twenty-five years ago these guys were there. They turned the city upside down. The sum of their composite parts.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Mailbag: Dodgers picking up speed
With the signing of Rafael Furcal and Kenny Lofton, can fans expect to see a lot of stolen bases this year with new manager Grady Little running the show?-- Jeff F., Bear Valley Springs, Calif.
Little, trained in the National League style during his years with Atlanta, has said he will utilize the talent he's been given, so let's see what he's been given. Furcal and Lofton's games are speed, although Furcal must show he's recovered from knee surgery. Things slow down abruptly after such surgeries. The next six players in the batting order -- J.D. Drew, Jeff Kent, Nomar Garciaparra, Bill Mueller, Jose Cruz Jr. and Dioner Navarro -- combined for seven stolen bases last year.
What is the status of Greg Miller?-- Ryan G., Sherman Oaks, Calif.
Once considered the best left-handed pitching prospect in the system, Miller has had two years of shoulder problems. As of now he's healthy, but he's two years behind in innings pitched and he has a tendency to throw from over the top, which puts strain on his delicate shoulder. When his arm angle is about three-quarters, he's effective and healthy. Although he was a starter before the injury, the thinking is that he might wind up a reliever. Nonetheless, he'll probably be a starter this year just to pick up innings.
How did the Dodgers acquire pitcher Jose Diaz, and what role does he have in the organization?-- Greg P., Ventura, Calif.
Diaz, a right-handed pitcher from the Dominican Republic who turns 22 later this month, was signed as a 17-year-old free agent. He was protected on the Major League roster, despite undergoing Tommy John elbow reconstruction early last year, because he's been clocked at 100 mph after the surgery. But he pitched only 17 2/3 innings last year, a total of only 173 innings in five professional seasons and has yet to advance past Class A. So, he's got talent, but also a long way to go.
The key relief spots appear to be set. Who will fill the remaining bench and bullpen slots?-- Jan S., Cypress, Calif.
First, follow the money. Outfielder Rickey Ledee, infielder Olmedo Saenz and catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. have guaranteed contracts. Assuming Jayson Werth will be disabled, Jason Repko has a good chance as an extra outfielder. The infield can go a number of ways, with Hee-Seop Choi, Oscar Robles, Willy Aybar, Ramon Martinez and others as options. After Eric Gagne, Danys Baez and Yhency Brazoban, it's something of a pitching staff scramble. Jonathan Broxton, Franquelis Osoria, Lance Carter and Kelly Wunsch might be the leading candidates, but D.J. Houlton could wind up in long relief if he doesn't win a starting spot and Hong-Chih Kuo looked overpowering at times last September.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Fan Guide: Los Angeles Dodgers
01/30/2006
It might take all spring for Dodgers fans to get to know the new Dodgers. It might take all spring for the new Dodgers to get to know the new Dodgers.
Since the end of last season, new general manager Ned Colletti has acquired Rafael Furcal, Nomar Garciaparra, Bill Mueller, Kenny Lofton, Sandy Alomar Jr., Brett Tomko, Jae Seo and Danys Baez -- all of whom are expected to play significant roles in returning the club to contention.
Colletti also hired Grady Little to take over for Jim Tracy, whose 2005 Dodger club finished 71-91, the second-worst finish since the franchise moved from Brooklyn to Los Angeles for the 1958 season.
As Dodgers fans prepare for a journey to Vero Beach, where the Dodgers have trained since 1948, here are some questions and answers that should help:
When do the Dodgers arrive at camp?The Dodgers' pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training on Feb. 15, with their first workout Feb. 16. Position players arrive Feb. 20, with the first full-squad workout Feb. 21.
When do games start?The Dodgers open the Grapefruit League season Thursday, Mar. 2, hosting the Atlanta Braves at Holman Stadium. The Dodgers will play 33 exhibition games, including split-squad games Mar. 6. Another day of split-squad games will be Mar. 30, when one squad will wrap up play in Florida against Houston in Kissimmee and another squad will participate in the Big League Weekend in Las Vegas against Seattle. The exhibition season concludes with the traditional three-game Freeway Series against the Angels, opening March 30 at Dodger Stadium, followed by games March 31 and April 1 in Anaheim.
How do I get tickets?Tickets for all Dodgers Spring Training games at Holman Stadium are on dodgers.com.
Holman Stadium holds 6,500 fans, with additional room on the berm beyond the outfield fence -- always a popular spot for families. Concessions and novelties can be purchased on the concourse behind home plate and behind both bases. Ticket prices and other information can be found at the Dodgers Spring Training ticket page.
Where is Vero Beach, and how do I get there?By air, Vero Beach is closest to airports in Melbourne, West Palm Beach and Orlando. It is 85 miles southeast of Orlando and 65 miles north of West Palm Beach.
To get to Dodgertown from I95, take the Vero Beach exit, go east on Route 60 to 43rd Avenue, left on 43rd Avenue one-half mile to 26th Street, turn right on 26th Street, and Dodgertown is on the right.
How can I watch the team work out?There is no admission to see the Dodgers work out on their fields at Dodgertown. The Major League team uses the two full fields and Holman Stadium; the Minor Leaguers will report in early March to the fields further east.
Before the start of the Grapefruit League schedule, the Major League team hits the field around 9 a.m. ET, and some hitters stay out there well into the afternoon. Once the games begin, there's only a morning session prior to the game.
Where can I get some autographs?The best time to get autographs is before the start of games, as the players are walking from the clubhouse to the fields and back. Once games begin, players' availability is significantly reduced. Some players stop to sign near the covered batting cages and clubhouse beyond the right-field foul pole at Holman Stadium.
What else is there to do in Vero Beach?Vero Beach is located in Indian River County. The American publication Rating Guide to Cities named Vero Beach the best small city in Florida, and Vero Beach is one of only four Florida towns included in "The 100 Best Art Towns in America." In addition to its beaches and waters for swimming, scuba diving, boating, fishing and other water sports, Indian River County's parks offer countless opportunities for recreation and enjoying the outdoors. Four public golf courses allow for all levels of play and tennis facilities are widely available. In addition to Dodgertown, the area has museums, theaters, restaurants, night spots and shopping areas.
When do the Dodgers open the regular season?On April 3, the Dodgers will host the Atlanta Braves at 1:10 p.m. PT at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Dodgers add non-roster signees
01/31/2006
LOS ANGELES -- The Dodgers added two more non-roster signees invited to Major League camp, both with ties to general manager Ned Colletti and the San Francisco Giants.
Infielder Ramon Martinez and right-handed pitcher Kurt Ainsworth were added to the list, bringing the total of invited non-roster players to 15. The Dodgers invited 18 non-roster players to last spring's camp. Of those, nine appeared in the Major Leagues at some point in the season.
Martinez (no relation to the former Dodgers pitcher) is 33. He played four seasons with the Giants, two with the Cubs, started last season in Detroit and went to Philadelphia in the Placido Polanco trade last June.
He batted .277 in 52 games in 2005 while playing all four infield positions. His presence would seem to challenge the roster status of Oscar Robles, one of the most pleasant surprises of the 2005 season. Martinez has three postseason appearances on his resume.
Ainsworth, 27, is a former first-round pick of the Giants who was dealt to Baltimore in 2003, underwent elbow surgery in 2004 and shoulder surgery in 2005 and missed the entire season.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Newcombe, Wills honored for efforts
02/03/2006
DOWNEY, Ca -- A bridge can have different meaning to each individual. For some it's something you cross to physically get from one place to another. For Don Newcombe and Maury Wills, two former baseball greats who fell into the deep pit of alcohol and drug abuse and found their way out to lead not just productive; but exemplary lives -- their bridge was an emotional one to cross -- and the pair was rewarded for their efforts by having two bridges at the Los Amigos Country Club dedicated in their honor.
"I have families who have trouble with their children and after finding out how involved Maury and Don have been in programs helping families, I thought it would be wonderful to take these brand new bridges and dedicate it to the people who have had trouble with drugs and alcohol," said Los Amigos President Don Duffin. "I feel it is crossing over from a bad life to a good life."
So fittingly the dedication of each plaque has the same inscription:
"To honor his contributions not only to baseball, but to the thousands he has helped cross over from darkness to sobriety."
Both Newcombe and Wills play golf regularly at Los Amigos and are deeply moved by the country club's gesture.
"I'm glad to be anywhere when I think about my life back then," said Newcombe, who placed his hands on his young son's head 39 years ago and swore he would never have another drink after alcoholism derailed a brilliant pitching career with the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers. "What I have done after my baseball career and being able to help people with their lives and getting their lives back on track and they become human beings again -- means more to me than all the things I did in baseball."
"Just being here with Don Newcombe makes me feel great," said Wills, the 1962 National League Most Valuable Player for the Dodgers, whose life slid into a deep hole of drug and alcohol abuse in the early 1980's and who will be clean and sober 17 years this August. "I'm standing here with the man who saved my life. He was a channel for God's love for me because he chased me all over Los Angeles trying to help me and I just couldn't understand that -- but he persevered -- he wouldn't give in and my life is wonderful today because of Don Newcombe."
Newcombe, who has been the Dodgers' director of community affairs for over thirty years and is still the only player in baseball history to have won the Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player and Cy Young Awards, is very proud of what Wills has done to help others.
"Maury is doing so well now -- I know he cares more about what he is doing now than a lot of the things he did in baseball," said Newcombe. "He has six people now that he takes care of as their sponsor -- six people. Imagine what that means now to people who have alcoholism when they hear this."
It's also fitting that the two would receive this honor in the month of February, which is also Black History Month. Newcombe, who served as a trail blazer along with fellow Dodger greats Jackie Robinson and Roy Campanella as the first group of black stars in Major League Baseball, looks back with pride in collective contributions he and his friends made to the game.
"Sixty years ago this month Jackie Robinson, Roy Campanella and Don Newcombe made history in this country," said Newcombe, referring to the fact that he and his future Dodger teammates started playing in the Minor Leagues. "Robinson in Montreal and Campanella and Newcombe in Nashua, one of the Dodgers' lower Minor League affiliates. We made changes that went on for so long that black men couldn't play Major League Baseball in the so-called All-American sports pastime. Now all that has changed after 60 years. I'm the only one left from that team who is still here to talk about it, and to remind people that 60 years ago, it was not like this and what we had to go through to get what it is like today."
"I will always have a great appreciation for Don Newcombe, for Jackie Robinson, Roy Campanella, Joe Black, Dan Bankhead and Sam Jethroe," said Wills, who serves as a bunting and baserunning coach for the Dodgers. "I remember all those players -- I looked up to them. When I came along, even though they set the tone and made it possible for me to get into organized baseball -- I was still confronted with a lot of the things that they went through -- but it was softened much more for me by them."
So for these two men the bridges that have been dedicated to them are well deserved and an honor they don't take lightly.
"We paid our tolls to cross that bridge," said Newcombe. "And we will keep on having others pay their toll because it's a great world on the other side of that bridge if they give it a chance."
Source:
http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Around the Horn: Middle infielders
02/01/2006
LOS ANGELES -- A year ago, Jeff Kent had never worn the Dodger uniform.
One year later, he's played more games as a Dodger than any of the other three infielders slated to start the 2006 season.
Nothing demonstrates general manager Ned Colletti's radical remodeling of the roster better than what he's done to the infield, but can you blame him?
He had the good sense to leave Kent alone, but he felt forced to find his second baseman a new double-play partner. Shortstop Cesar Izturis blew out his elbow late last year, underwent Tommy John surgery and nobody knows for sure when he'll return or how strong his throwing arm will be.
When Colletti replaced Paul DePodesta, the first move he made was to sign switch-hitter Rafael Furcal for three years to replace Izturis, not only at shortstop, but batting leadoff. Furcal, 28, has a .284 career batting average and has scored 100 runs in each of the last three seasons.
"Rafael has proven to be one of the game's top leadoff hitters and a tremendous defensive presence on the infield," said Colletti. "We expect him to be a major force in our lineup for the next three years and hopefully beyond."
So, Colletti resisted the temptation to rush 21-year-old Joel Guzman, was allowed by ownership to buy time for more seasoning of the top prospect while filling the hole with a veteran better equipped to help the team win immediately.
Izturis fans are fretting over where he'll play when he's healthy. The Dodgers are hopeful they will need to make that decision. In the interim, Colletti felt he needed a top replacement immediately.
Izturis underwent Tommy John surgery, which normally takes 9-12 months of recovery. But Izturis' injury is unique because his ligament was stretched on the inside of the elbow by compensating for pain caused by a degenerative arthritic condition on the outside of the elbow. Even if the ligament heals, the arthritis only figures to worsen.
Whether Izturis' elbow will rebound strong enough to make the throw from the hole between shortstop and third base is an unknown. He could wind up at second base, especially with Kent in the final year of his contract. It won't be shortstop, because the Dodgers are paying Furcal $13 million a year to handle that.
If Kent has another offensive season like 2005, the Dodgers will be in no hurry to let him leave. He led the offense in home runs, RBIs, at-bats, hits and slugging percentage. And he never went on the disabled list, which is something most of his teammates couldn't say.
Kent will be 38 in March, but he held up well during a grueling season in which he had very little help in the lineup. He drove in 100 runs for the eighth time, even though his club finished 14th in the league in scoring. Kent somehow scored 100 runs, even though the next-closest RBI total on the team was 63 by part-time player Olmedo Saenz.
Assuming the starters stay healthy, the bench should be deep. Oscar Robles can back up at shortstop (as well as third base) and Nomar Garciaparra hasn't thrown away his shortstop glove. Willy Aybar seems a natural at second base.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Sarah's Take: Campy an inspiration
02/04/2006
Since Spring Training is almost upon us, most of us are taking a deep breath before we start the marathon also known as the regular season. Most of the deals have been completed, so there is not much new news to ponder. Writers are guessing which teams will do well and which won't.
I already have expressed my opinion about the 2006 Dodgers. I don't want to bore my readers or look foolish, so I won't write about the Dodgers until they hit the field in Vero Beach. Everyone knows baseball games aren't won or lost on paper. If they were, nobody would play the games.
I am taking the opportunity with almost nothing to write about to express my gratitude to the late Roy and Roxie Campanella for giving me the courage to follow my dreams.
Campanella, or "Campy" as his friends called him, had a part in integrating Major League Baseball. The native of Philadelphia never had it easy in life, but he was always cheerful and easygoing. He had an African-American mother and an Italian-American father.
At 16, Campy started playing professional baseball in the Negro Leagues. While there, he developed a reputation for an outstanding ability to work with pitchers. Campy was a star in the Negro Leagues, playing in many All-Star games.
In 1946, the Dodgers signed Campanella. For two years, he played in the Minor Leagues, helping to integrate them. In April of 1948, he became the sixth African-American player in the Majors in the 20th century. Campanella soon became a star for the Dodgers and a popular figure in Brooklyn. In 1951, 1953, and 1955, Campanella was named the Most Valuable Player of the National League, and he caught in five World Series. In 1953, he set a Major League record for a catcher with 41 home runs. This remarkable record stood alone until 1996, when Todd Hundley of the New York Mets tied it. In 1969, Campanella was the second African-American player to be elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Campanella's playing career ended tragically and prematurely on an icy January night in 1958, just before the Dodgers moved to Los Angeles. Though his playing career was coming to a close because he had painful bone spurs in his heel, he had a few more years left to dazzle the people of Los Angeles, where baseball was still unknown. Coming home from a store, Campanella's car skidded on the ice and ran into a light pole. Somehow, he survived the accident, but he broke his fifth cervical vertebra and severed his spinal cord and was paralyzed from the shoulders down. For the next 35 years, he was wheelchair bound and endured endless hours of physical therapy. He lived longer than anybody thought he would after the accident.
Although Campanella was a great baseball player, he was a better person. He maintained a sunny attitude after a personal tragedy. Most people would not have criticized Campy if he stopped working when he quit playing, but he did not. He did not let his physical difficulties stand in his way. During the 1970s and 1980s, Campanella was the most visible Brooklyn Dodger. By doing this, Campanella gave millions hope and made us re-evaluate our lives.
Campanella had almost the biggest influence on my life outside of my family. I never had the opportunity to meet him, but I saw him on television and heard about him from the Dodgers announcers. While growing up, I didn't see many wheelchair-bound adults and certainly not many who could not use their hands. Campanella couldn't do much more than I could, except talk.
While in school, I learned that most of the teachers put their emphasis on the child's physical abilities rather than his ability to learn. I couldn't do much physically, so they didn't want to waste their time teaching me much. This could have discouraged me, but seeing Campanella doing something worthwhile helped me to keep trying.
As a high school senior, I was told that I was unemployable. For a few days I was discouraged, in spite of my mother telling me to not listen to that. Then, I thought of Campanella. He had a job teaching catchers and doing public relations for the Dodgers. I thought if he could do that, I could find a job that I could do.
For many years, Campanella taught the Dodger catchers. Before 1998, the Dodgers had the best catchers in baseball in my opinion. He helped to teach Mike Scioscia to be the best plate blocker in the game. Every Dodger catcher knew how to work with pitchers. To me, Campanella's influence helped the Dodgers to develop a great pitching tradition.
Campanella worked in community affairs for the Dodgers until his death in June 1993. He offered hope to many paralyzed people. With the help of Don Newcombe, a former teammate, and his wife, Roxie, he attended every old timers game and Hall of Fame induction until his death. Anyone who has traveled with a wheelchair can appreciate the effort that Campanellas put forth to go to these functions.
After Campanella died, Roxie kept going to Dodgers games. She worked tirelessly to help improve the care of paralyzed people. Roy and Roxie established the Roy and Roxie Campanella Physical Therapy Scholarship Foundation that helps to fund education for physical therapists in 1991, and after Roy's death, Roxie continued to work for this cause. Most people who didn't know the Campanellas saw Roxie as the lady who pushed Roy's wheelchair, but Roy and his friends knew that he couldn't have accomplished what he did without the dedication of his wife. Roxie passed away in March 2004. The Dodgers, baseball and disabled communities still miss "the spunky lady who pushed Roy."
Campanella broke down many barriers for both African-Americans and the disabled. He should be remembered as a civil rights activist. Unlike many civil rights leaders, he tried kindness to break down barriers. While doing research for this article, I found out the United States Postal Service announced it will honor Campanella on a stamp in 2006. I am glad because Campanella should never be forgotten.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Garciaparra bows out of WBC
02/03/2006
LOS ANGELES -- Nomar Garciaparra, adjusting to a new position on a new team after two injury-plagued seasons, withdrew on Friday from participation on the Mexican National Team in the World Baseball Classic.
"After much reflection, I have come to the difficult decision to withdraw from the Mexican National Team in the upcoming World Baseball Classic," said Garciaparra, 32.
"While I am honored to have been asked to participate, at this point, I believe it is really important for me to concentrate on the year ahead. Given all that I have been through with my health the past couple of years, and now with changing both teams and positions, I feel this is the time for me to focus on doing my best for the Dodgers, my new teammates and the wonderful fans in Los Angeles.
"I wish the Mexican National Team great success in the WBC and I want them to know that I will be supporting them enthusiastically."
A Dodgers spokesman said that Garciaparra, who already has begun working out at first base, is completely healthy. He missed large parts of the past two seasons with injuries to his wrist and groin muscle.
Garciaparra, a five-time All-Star and two-time batting champ, was signed by the Dodgers to a one-year contract Dec. 19. His signing was primarily to use his bat as protection for cleanup hitter Jeff Kent in the batting order. Garciaparra, a natural shortstop, agreed to move to first base, where he replaces the platoon of Hee-Seop Choi and Olmedo Saenz.
A native of Whittier, Calif., Garciaparra was eligible to compete for Mexico in the World Baseball Classic because his parents are natives of Mexico.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
No stopping Guzman, but not at short
02/03/2006
LOS ANGELES -- Dodgers fans with more than a casual interest in the organization's bluest of blue-chip prospects have been wondering ever since he signed where talented Dominican Joel Guzman will wind up on the diamond.
Terry Collins, the team's farm director, said Guzman has been wondering, too. And, said Collins, we'll all find out this spring.
"It's a question that won't be decided until our new Major League staff gets a good look at him," said Collins, referring to new manager Grady Little and his coaching staff, who will see Guzman for the first time at their first Dodgers training camp.
"I've recommended that he starts out at shortstop again, because it's an athletic position and his skills can be transferred anywhere. Then the staff can look at our needs and by the end of Spring Training, we should know."
Guzman has been a shortstop since signing for a franchise record $2.25 million bonus as a 16-year-old. But now 6-foot-6, his body has outgrown the position. Combined with the signing of Rafael Furcal to a three-year contract and the hopeful return to health of Cesar Izturis, there are plenty of reasons to believe Guzman will wind up anywhere except for shortstop.
Collins, in fact, told Guzman as much when they met in the Dominican Republic last week.
"In winter ball, he played mostly third base and first base, very little shortstop, and that should help him," said Collins. "There are a lot of people who think he'll wind up in the outfield. We had a little discussion and he's ready to make a change. He's aware it's going to happen, we just don't know where and when.
"His bat will dictate his career and the sky's the limit offensively. He's smart, he's fluent in English, even the older players like to be around him. He can be a leader. I've seen tremendous growth in him. When he gets it all figured out, he can be something."
But for all the promise, Guzman showed when promoted to Double-A last year why the Dodgers are not rushing him, or any of their top prospects. He spent the entire 2005 season at Jacksonville and hit .287 with 16 home runs and 75 RBIs, solid numbers but nothing to indicate he's ready for the Major Leagues at age 21.
Here's the scouting report on Guzman, according to Baseball America:
"Guzman's hitting ability and power are well above average. He keeps his hands inside the ball well and uncorks tape-measure blasts when he makes contact. He's a dangerous low-ball hitter. A good athlete, he has a plus arm and average speed.
"Guzman's pitch recognition and plate discipline still need improvement, and like most big players, he has a hole on the inner half. He lacks first-step quickness and his defensive actions are too long, which eventually will prompt a move from shortstop. He saw time at third base in 2005, but right field is his likely destination."
"We put a ton of pressure on him last year and his response was just OK," said Collins. "It wasn't what he wanted to do. But he was 20 years old in a good league and he became the focal point on the team. He got booed for the first time and he didn't like it. But the expectations were so high."
Guzman is expected to start the 2006 season at Triple-A Las Vegas, but also expected there are first baseman James Loney and third baseman Andy LaRoche.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Mailbag: Dodgers picking up speed
02/06/2006
With the signing of Rafael Furcal and Kenny Lofton, can fans expect to see a lot of stolen bases this year with new manager Grady Little running the show?-- Jeff F., Bear Valley Springs, Calif.
Little, trained in the National League style during his years with Atlanta, has said he will utilize the talent he's been given, so let's see what he's been given. Furcal and Lofton's games are speed, although Furcal must show he's recovered from knee surgery. Things slow down abruptly after such surgeries. The next six players in the batting order -- J.D. Drew, Jeff Kent, Nomar Garciaparra, Bill Mueller, Jose Cruz Jr. and Dioner Navarro -- combined for seven stolen bases last year.
What is the status of Greg Miller?-- Ryan G., Sherman Oaks, Calif.
Once considered the best left-handed pitching prospect in the system, Miller has had two years of shoulder problems. As of now he's healthy, but he's two years behind in innings pitched and he has a tendency to throw from over the top, which puts strain on his delicate shoulder. When his arm angle is about three-quarters, he's effective and healthy. Although he was a starter before the injury, the thinking is that he might wind up a reliever. Nonetheless, he'll probably be a starter this year just to pick up innings.
How did the Dodgers acquire pitcher Jose Diaz, and what role does he have in the organization?-- Greg P., Ventura, Calif.
Diaz, a right-handed pitcher from the Dominican Republic who turns 22 later this month, was signed as a 17-year-old free agent. He was protected on the Major League roster, despite undergoing Tommy John elbow reconstruction early last year, because he's been clocked at 100 mph after the surgery. But he pitched only 17 2/3 innings last year, a total of only 173 innings in five professional seasons and has yet to advance past Class A. So, he's got talent, but also a long way to go.
The key relief spots appear to be set. Who will fill the remaining bench and bullpen slots?-- Jan S., Cypress, Calif.
First, follow the money. Outfielder Rickey Ledee, infielder Olmedo Saenz and catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. have guaranteed contracts. Assuming Jayson Werth will be disabled, Jason Repko has a good chance as an extra outfielder. The infield can go a number of ways, with Hee-Seop Choi, Oscar Robles, Willy Aybar, Ramon Martinez and others as options. After Eric Gagne, Danys Baez and Yhency Brazoban, it's something of a pitching staff scramble. Jonathan Broxton, Franquelis Osoria, Lance Carter and Kelly Wunsch might be the leading candidates, but D.J. Houlton could wind up in long relief if he doesn't win a starting spot and Hong-Chih Kuo looked overpowering at times last September.
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Dodgers WIN gives women an edge
02/06/2006
LOS ANGELES -- It's early February, and more than 100 women ages 21 through 55 arrived at the Dodger Stadium Dugout Club for the Dodgers' first Women's Initiative and Network (WIN) event of 2006.
Launched in May of 2005, Dodgers WIN offers women special access to the game experience through events and ongoing programs, including clinics, seminars, and forums involving Dodgers players, coaches and staff. WIN takes an active role in promoting community involvement and educational programs, and gives women invaluable professional and social networking opportunities.
"The turnout here is beyond our expectations," said Dodgers president and vice chairman Jamie McCourt, who created WIN. "The women here have been so supportive of what we are trying to accomplish in trying to bring more and more women into the Dodger family is so rewarding."
McCourt, who attends every WIN-related event, especially enjoys the networking events like this one where women get together and find mutual interests through baseball and to kick off what will be happening this season.
"Tonight is really to introduce them to all the opportunities programmatically that we've got going," said McCourt, who is the highest-ranking female executive in Major League Baseball. "Whether it's clinics, whether it's breakfasts, whether it's opportunities in the Dodger program, networking with one another or sports in general -- understanding the rules, understanding what their children can do at the stadium. There are so many things we want to talk about."
One woman who was attending her first WIN event was Debi Little, the wife of new Dodgers manager Grady Little.
"This is amazing," said Little, who spent the day house-hunting with her husband. "In the past few years, I've seen more and more women going to the ballpark, and here is a great opportunity for women to really understand what is happening on the field and behind the scenes. And not only that -- to network with each other -- they may have some commonalities outside of baseball as well, so it's a wonderful opportunity for women."
Little saw tonight's event as a great way to educate herself not only about WIN, but also what the Dodger organization is about.
"Living on the East Coast all my life, I grew up really more a Yankees fan, and so I know the East Coast teams," said Little. "But, believe it or not, I watched when Steve Garvey and Ron Cey, Davey Lopes and those guys played. I admired the Dodgers from afar -- even though it wasn't the team I'd pull for to win the World Series and they did (in 1981). But I really watched the Dodgers at that time and remembered those guys."
So imagine Mrs. Little's thrill that the two guest speakers at the event were Garvey and Cey, who are both big supporters of WIN.
"I think this is a great idea," said Cey, the Dodgers' third baseman from 1973-82. "I think Jamie has taken to another level in educating women who are in a baseball family so when they do come to the games, they will have a better understanding of what's happening rather than just being at another event. Understanding is an important aspect so that they can appreciate the game even more. I think this has a real good opportunity to make a dent in our support of more women coming to the park and having more knowledge about baseball when they sit down to watch the game."
For Garvey, who is married and has five daughters, women have always been important in his life -- especially when he was offered his first professional contract in 1968.
"I always love talking about my mom closing the Dodgers deal," said Garvey, who is still on the Hall of Fame ballot after an All-Star and MVP career with both the Dodgers and Padres from 1969-87. "When I was drafted out of Michigan State, I was offered $25,000 and all of a sudden, mom took over and it was up to $40,000, a new car and my education was paid for.
"The influence of women in business is so dramatic nowadays, and Jamie's initiative is, I think, well thought-out, building momentum and very much needed as a woman who is a leader in the business world."
Increased interest in the initiative has attracted new sponsors to join WIN in supporting its vision, including Smashbox Cosmetics, the presenting sponsor of WIN Fan Appreciation Day, which is scheduled for July 29. Trader Joe's will be the presenting sponsor of Game 3 of the Dodgers WIN mini-plan on June 1, when the Dodgers take on the Phillies. In addition to the new sponsors, Macy's, Staples and JJ Creations Inc. are continuing their support of WIN and select WIN events. McCourt is thrilled with the response she has gotten from people who attended past WIN events.
"My favorite things are when women write me and say, 'My husband wanted to be down on the field with me, and he was so jealous that I got to be with Jeff Kent or Tommy Lasorda,'" said McCourt with a smile. "I've also received really poignant letters from women who have said, 'In all my life, this was the best day I have ever had -- my son came with me and he was so proud of me that I was learning about baseball.' It doesn't get much better than that."
Source: http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/
Dodgers infield recalls glory days
02/06/2006
LOS ANGELES -- The infield that played together at Dodger Stadium for a record 8 1/2 years was back together again on Monday, sans Davey Lopes, the second baseman, who cancelled at the last minute.
They last walked off the field as a unit in their Dodgers uniform nearly 25 years ago. The Rat went first, to Oakland, leaving Ron Cey, Bill Russell and Steve Garvey to break in Steve Sax for a year. The Garv then jumped to the Padres, the Penguin to the Cubs and Ropes eventually into retirement.
"It's hard to believe that 25 years has gone by so quickly," Cey said before he and the bunch were honored with a special award by the Southern California Sports Broadcasters during their annual luncheon at the posh Lakeside Golf Club. "But it has. Where did it all go?"
The last time they were in the starting lineup together was Oct. 18, 1981, at Yankee Stadium -- in the sixth game of the World Series. Manager Tommy Lasorda, almost on instinct, penciled them in at the top of the order -- Lopes, Russell, Garvey and Cey.
"Unusual," Cey said. "It didn't happen very often. But I don't think he did it on purpose. Just a fluke."
Ironically, when the game ended and that group had its only World Series championship, Cey wasn't on the field. He had to pull himself out in the sixth inning, feeling the after-effects of the beaning he took courtesy of a Goose Gossage fastball in Game 5. With two out and nobody on in the ninth inning and a 9-2 victory secure, Lopes committed an error on the last ball hit to him as a Dodger. Bob Watson then flied out to Kenny Landreaux in center, ending it.
"It was a great night for all of us," said Cey, who shared the MVP Award of that series with Pedro Guerrero and Steve Yeager. "We had come close so many other times. For us to put the final earmark on our career together, was, I believe, our ultimate achievement, and certainly mine."
As only the Dodgers can, they will celebrate the 25th anniversary of that World Series victory all season, culminating with a grand reunion of the team on Sept. 16. Last year, it was the 50th anniversary of the those 1955 Boys of Brooklyn, who finally vanquished the hated Yankees after losing to them in 1941, 1947, 1949, 1952 and 1953.
This year, it will be the Lads of Los Angeles, who were finally able to overcome those Damn Yankees after World Series losses in 1977 and 1978. Add a five-game trouncing by the Oakland A's in the 1974 Fall Classic and the road for the core of that team, "The Infield," was finally complete.
"As a whole, I always thought we were greater than our individual parts," Garvey said on Monday.
During their years together, they were responsible for four pennants, one title, 21 All-Star appearances, five Gold Gloves, a National League MVP, an NL Championship Series MVP and that share of the 1981 World Series MVP.
Their time together began on June 23, 1973, during the final years when the reserve clause bound players perpetually to each Major League team and free agency wasn't even a dream. It was just before the second game of a doubleheader against the Big Red Machine in Chavez Ravine, and the late Walter Alston meandered over to Garvey in the clubhouse and asked him if he'd ever played first base.
"Sure," Garvey, the heretofore third baseman with an erratic arm, responded to the legendary skipper.
Garvey never missed another game there -- regular or postseason -- until after his Dodgers tenure ended in 1982. His infieldmates didn't play all the games, but they were around for most of them.
"If we had been playing together today, we would've been part owners of the team," said Russell, who later went on to manage the Dodgers.
Those were the Dodgers of Walter O'Malley and later his son Peter. The O'Malley family wrested the franchise from Branch Rickey in 1950, and held on against the rising tide of baseball's swelling economics for more than 45 years. Their managers for most of that time were Alston and Lasorda. Their general managers were Buzzy Bavasi, Al Campanis and Fred Claire, who introduced the boys on Monday.
"You can't think about any one of the names without thinking about all four names," Claire said about the quartet.
All that consistency has given way to the current state of affairs at Dodger Stadium where the ownership, general manager and managers seem to change now with the swiftness of a Sandy Koufax fastball.
Garvey and Cey work in marketing for the Dodgers under owners Jamie and Frank McCourt, who see great value in tying the present to the past. Then again, the pair is a reminder of a much better time. The Dodgers captured the World Series title again in 1988. But since then, they've won just one postseason game.
"What people want is a reminder of what it was like," Cey said. "The more you can see past successes of the team, it gives the fans hope. When you're in the moment, you don't reflect. But can you imagine what it would be like for the Dodgers to go to the World Series in this era four times in eight years? This city would be turned upside down."
Twenty-five years ago these guys were there. They turned the city upside down. The sum of their composite parts.
Source:
http://losang