text:
Thank you!
I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of you on behalf of the organization for the time, effort and money that you all put into following the Dodgers. Last night was tough…not much more can be said than you've all already said and the media has offered. The Phillies were clearly the better team this week and they outplayed us. But as always, I try to look on the bright side.
This year, many of you started the year with visits to Camelback Ranch and got to experience Spring Training for the first time. We all got to watch many of our favorite players mature before our very own eyes and have breakthrough seasons. The long-awaited ITD tour brought many of you face to face for the first time and of course, brought Joe Pierre out to Los Angeles for a very memorable weekend. The fact that this site can do that is an amazing thing and one of the primary reasons the blog was started in the first place.
The Dodgers finished with the best record in the NL for the first time in more than a quarter century and swept the NLDS for the second straight season, both of which are pretty impressive feats. And Dodger Stadium rocked during the playoffs like I've never seen before…literally. From the press box, we could feel the stadium shaking with your cheering, towel waving, and excitement.
The 2009 highlights are simply too many to try to list…
Inside the Dodgers continues to be a great place for fans to gather and share their thoughts. Despite techinical issues that we obviously hope will be worked out, you guys have all made this a place where all opinions are welcome and your feedback is truly appreciated. I'm not sure how many teams have this sort of back and forth forum with their fans but I'm very proud that we do and your thoughts are taken into account by the highest levels of the team, so keep sharing them.
In the meantime, don't stop coming to this blog just because the season is over. We'll continue to try and post relevant updates all the time (though proabably not daily). And remember, Spring Training is just around the corner…
423 Comments
Not that many bright spots for us in the NLCS, but my mind keeps going back to the failure to pitch to Stairs. O well. I would not go away from Brox, though.
Figure out what happened to Martin.
I'd try to keep Hudson.
I'd try to keep Wolf as a 4 or 5.
Obviously keep the Kid.
Might start to run out of patience with Billz.
Manny's an enigma. I do not think we can afford to have him an entire season playing at post-suspension level. He needs to come out of the chute contributing.
And above all we NEED A NUMBER ONE. This one's for you, Ned.
Great Post Josh! Well said. This was indeed a great year for the ITD blog. I love how we are all connected. Thank you for staying with us and for letting us be a part of the organization. Enjoy the off season and we will see each other come spring!
Go DODGERS!!!
Thank-you, Josh, for all you do for us.
Thank-you, Dodgers, for making this an incredible year!
Thank-you, my ITD Family, for making this one of the most enjoyable seasons ever!
I got new threaded:
Hi everyone,
Not much to say after last night. I think we are all feeling the same way. I am proud of what they have done, but feel that this year was incomplete. As far as next year, would we go after Matt Holliday if Manny didn't pick up his option? I can see a rotation of Kersh, Billz (if he can get his head together), Padilla/Wolf, Hiro and someone like Halladay or Lackey (not necessarily in that order). I think with one lights out pitcher and maybe one more bat, we are in business. That bat can either be Manny returning to his old self, or someone from outside.
Josh and our ITD Family! It has been a great season, and I'm proud to have been a part of this crew! Thank you all!
According to SI, Frank has fired Jamie as CEO…..this may be a fun off-season, afterall!
Thank you, indeed, to our team and to all the ITD members that I regard as friends. It was a truly enjoyable season, although much better in the first half than the second. We can follow the games from a distance, as in my own case, on MLB.com, but it would be such a lonely endeavor if it were not for the interreaction with so many of you daily here on ITD. I appreciate every one of you, both those with whom I agree practically all the time and those with whom I don't. I hope I have not offended any of you, as I only intend to offend certain (well, perhaps most) people in our management structure. Have a great off-season, all of you, and I hope we'll still have a lot to talk about before next Spring Training.
"your thoughts are taken into account by the highest levels of the team.."
Josh, I'll accept that at face value. So please pass this along. Tell Frankie and Annette to sell the four houses. One or the other (I couldn't care less) gets all the proceeds from the houses as well as ALL proceeds from food, concessions, dreadlocks, and parking for the next 20 years; the other gets the Dodgers. Wait, still not a fair trade. OK, whoever gets the Dodgers has to pay ALL legal fees for both parties. Am I a mean-spirited, vulgar, grotesque SOB? Probably, but I have a hard time believing the break-up won't affect our storied franchise, whether financially or functionally. As a paying Dodger fan, I am FURIOUS with the crappy ownership models that have followed the O'Malleys, from Stuppert Ruppert to the "Power Couple of the Year."
Josh – Thank you so much for letting us make this a place where we truly have fun, whether it's talking about the Dodgers, baseball in general, current events, for some of us, even our families, and then we can't forget just the fun stuff…………songs, movies, stats, etc., etc, etc. We do have the best blog around, and it's because of the connections we have made with each other, whether through ITD or now in real life due to the ITD tour and other events surrounding the Dodgers. I mean really, what other blog can say they have two teenagers from two different Dodger fans, who happen to be bloggers, in two different cities (350 miles apart) that are still dating after 8 months? All I have to say about that is Thank God for unlimited texting. I think of this past year and all that has happened because of the connections I have made here, and I am sure this year ahead isn't going to be any different. It's only going to get better.
As for the Dodgers…………………………so very proud of them. I know it's going to be hard for them for a while, but they did a pretty damn good job this season, given all the obstacles they had to overcome to stay on top in the division, through Manny's suspension and injuries to key players during the season. However, I think Manny's suspension was the best thing for some. It proved that they didn't need him to win. It proved that Andre and Matt can step up and play everyday and be the Dynamic Duo we knew they would be. It also showed a different side to Juan Pierre. I was one of the hardest on him, and he really came out and did what was best for the team, and in the end, I really wanted to see him out there instead of Manny. I have a new respect for him that I didn't have at the beginning of the season.
As for the ITD Tour itself, we need to see what we can do to get not only Joe Pierre out here again, but some of our other cherished out of staters as well……………………..jhall, messagebear, truebluewill, boblee, ramslover, vl4cc, etc., etc.
Once again…………..thank you Josh for all that you do and did for this fabulous ITD Blog. None of these connections would have been made without you. A coincidence? I think not 🙂
I wonder if they had a security person stand watch while Jamie was cleaning out her office stuff. Jamie, "It's not over until it's over", and with the right attorneys that can be a very long time. I keep telling you "Cash is King" – make Frank sell everything and split it right down the middle; no sharing ownership. Take him to the cleaners – it's bound to make you feel better, and you could use a couple more mansions.
Can you imagine if the same team had CC Sabathia and Cliff Lee? What???…oh never mind…………………….
Josh, as the front man you sometimes take a lot of crap from us, but I for one thank you for providing this avenue. It's been a godsend for so many of us to discuss (and sometimes dis-and-cuss) our favorite team. More thanks to you for the Tour and I hope you can arrange for it to happen again. This time, we'll have us a nice picnic at Elysian Park after the tour and before the game.
To the Phillies, I need to tip my cap. You beat us fair and square. You got the big hit(s) we could never manage. You got into our 'pen, which was our only advantage and killed it.
Start up the hot stove league.
Let's start with the elephant in the living room. Everyone, me included, assumes that Ramirez will take that $20 million for 2010. Who in their right mind would top that, right? Well, hold on. Do you know how that contract is laid out? It's not simply $20 for one year. If he does not opt out, he receives $5M in 2010 and $15M in 3 installments of $3,333,333 each on June 30, 2011 and 2012, and $8,333,333 on June 30, 2013. What's the difference? Well, that kind of makes it a $20 mil/4 year deal. Sure, he'll get $15 million for NOT playing, but if someone were to offer him a $25/5 year deal, that would be better. Right? OK, I know I'm dreaming. No one's going to offer that. And unless Boras (God, there's that name again) knows for a fact that someone will make that offer (he has to notify the Dodgers by 5 days after the end of the Series or November 10th, whichever comes later whether or not he's accepting the extension), we'll have #99 in left for another season.
So we'll be paying our starting LF $20 mil for 2010. Of course he was disappointing. What did he do after he came back? Hardly worth $20 mil, right? Of course, he could surprise. Personally, I think he never really recovered from being HBP what, two weeks into his comeback? Breaking down his numbers:
Before the suspension (then adjusting for a 162-game season)
4/6 thru 5/6 – 6HR, 20RBI, 17SO (36/120/102 for 162 games), .348, .492, .641, .1.133
Not bad. Not exactly what we saw at the end of '08, but who in their right mind was expecting THAT? I'll take .348/36/120 from my starting left fielder.
After suspension thru getting hit in the wrist
7/3 thru 7/21 – 4HR, 13RBI, 10SO (44/141/108), .333, .429, .688, .1.116
Whoa, not bad either. Yes, a small sample. But he was coming back. Then, he got plunked:
After getting hit thru the end of the regular season
7/22 thru 10/3 – 9HR, 30RBI, 54 SO 24/79/142), .255, .380, .448, .829
A significant difference. And these numbers INCLUDE the slam that came the next day. Remove it:
7/23 thru 10/3 – 8HR, 26RBI, 54SO (22/70/144)
From 44/141 to 22/70. Half the HRs and RBIs. And the strikeout rate rises by 30%.
Don't forget, he didn't take a single game off immediately after getting hit. He was hit on the 21st, hit the PH slam on the 22nd, played the next two games, took a day off and then played every game until the first week of September.
I say he's been playing hurt, not suffering from steroid withdrawal. And don't think that Boras isn't running these numbers either. And if he isn't, I expect a cut, Scott.
So, I think there's a decent chance we might get good hitter back in left next season, if Boras doesn't sell him on someone else. If not, perhaps Holliday. But who is HIS agent? Boras. Hello, Texeira money. Can you say 8 years/$180 mil?
Starting pitching? Trade for Halladay? I'd love him. He's made it known that he's going to hit the FA market in 2011. Who is his agent? Yep. Can you say 7 years/ $161 mil? Neither can McCourt. So we'd be trading for a year's rental.
Gad, look at the time. I gotta get home. I'll be back later with some more talk.
I love the Dodgers.
trublu – You know it is going to be fun. When you have enchanted, messagebear, jhall and dodgereric, it's not going to be dull, especially with this Frank and Jamie stuff.
I see messagebear is already having his say.
Nope, not going to be dull at all.
LOL, Nellyjune! I can't wait to get the party started!
That's a very good analysis, eric, but do you have any idea who Frank or Jamie have been sleeping with on the side. I heard kahli mentioning "infidelity" in the previous thread, and I'd really like to get to the nitty gritty, or is it hanky panky.
I got new threaded too!! And with such an important post, I just had to repost here…
Frankie deserts Jamie in favor of the Green Girdle. Scurrilous Dodger gang jeader Ned Colletti finds time to sing the blues, Joe Torre quips a lot, Randy Wolf walks a lot, JP whines a lot, and columnist Bill Plaschke kisses up to everyone…
He sits in the third row, she sits in the first. Its Frankie and Annette, I mean Jamie as you've never seen them before in BLEACHER BLANKET BIMBO.
Rated S for screwed. No one will be admitted (to the hot stove) without a barf bag once the league has started.
�NedCo Telepictures 2009
What I want to know Tru, is once the divorce settlement becomes final, who gets custody of me, Bear and jhall on ITD. THAT'S gonna take some fancy negociating.
HEY JOSH, speaking of Spring Training. I was at Camelback last year and spent the week there. I found out the Dodgers had a charity poker event while I was there, for autism. I was bummed I hadn't heard about it until after it happened, since I love poker, I love the Dodgers, I love being charitable, and autism is a hot topic for me since my son has been diagnosed with autism. Let us know in advance when stuff like this might be happening and how we can become involved. I plan on being there again in March, so keep me updated.
LOL, Enchanted!
According to Ungar: Jamie gets Andre; Kersh; Furcal and Loney….Frank gets Manny; Matt; Billz and Martin.
enchanted, I think they may just give you guys up for adoption. Maybe Madonna is looking for a few more? 🙂
messagebear, being the low-rent ambulance chaser that I am, I must say, in all honesty and fairness, that I have never once heard the word "infidelity" thrown out there from any quarter…other than me. That said, what usually breaks up a marriage? Drug addition? You go to the Betty Ford clinic, kiss and make up. Alcohol addition? America is alcohol addicted. Physical abuse? Maybe Jamie DOES hit Frank, but she's not very big. Go to anger management, kiss and make up. Emotional abuse? And break up a marriage with four sons and a baseball team? Hardly seems likely. Marriage IS emotional abuse! Business/money differences? Divorce compounds that ten-fold. So what's left? Rich, attractive, powerful people move to La-La land where the pretty people drink, flirt, and fornicate. You decide what breaks up a marriage. I've only been married once so I'll need seasoned veterans to assist me here!
I'm actually amazed that we're talking Frankie and Anette 24 hours after our heroes succumb in the NLCS. And we're supposed to believe none of this intrigue will alter the team one iota?????? I want to see the books and the ropes that tied Ned's hands!
If it comes to a custody issue, enchanted, I as a consenting adult over 70 want to have my say, and I pick Jamie – Yeah.
Hello gang!!! Just want to say "Thanks Josh, to you and the Dodgers for your hard work and providing us with this wonderful board/outlet!!! I know we are a handful at times!! LOL!!! Gonna be a fun filled and power packed off season around the old hot stove. Starting off with Frank firing his wife and keeping Ned!!! I wonder if the impending divorce will tie Ned's hands with spending. They might put a hold on much spending until the case is settled.
LOL Beav!!! I want to go with whoever gets the team!!! Looking forward to Dad/Chevelles insight on our farm system and whats coming up as well as what is out there via free agency. He's really on top of that stuff!!!
Wow, Angels just imploded!!!
I'm watching the game, Jhall and, I think it is great the Angels are imploding! I can't stand the team…..I like Mike, but, WE ARE THE ONLY TEAM IN L.A.!!!!!
Hi'Ya Trumom. LOL!!! I really detest the Yankees Trumom, I can't root for them under any circumstances. Maybe you could adopt Beav, Bear, Eric, and myself!!!
Consider yourselves adopted! LMAO!!!
Thanks Trumom, you're fearless!!! LOL!!!
Trublu, you and I seem to be on the same wavelength with our team affiliations, love the Dodgers, Lakers, USC, can't stand the Phillies or Yankees and I agree about the Angels, I love Soscia and don't care one way or another about the Angels, but it bugs me that they changed their name to LA Angels. Anaheim is not even in LA County. I read an article today that Andre said the Dodgers need a top line starting pitcher and I totally agree. He was very careful to say he was not disrespecting any of the current staff. He was just being honest. Kershaw is going to be great, Wolf will keep you in the game 9 times out of 10 and I think they should re-sign him. I really hope Bills gets it together, but they can't pin their hopes on it. Should be an interesting off season.
Josh, I also wanted to say thanks for all you do on this blog and to support the Dodgers and their fans in general.
I was telling Nellyjune today that the Angels and Phillies have no "hotties" on the team…..nobody you can get excited over, nobody I'd want to have a jersey for. lol……the Dodgers are loaded with "hot stuff" and I have a shirt for almost all of them!
Bluecrewgirl ~ we must meet…..we are definitely alike!
BonJour BleuFille'!! Nice post. LOL Trumom!!
Also, I may not like the Yankees, but, they seem to come prepared to play everyday and I respect that.
Cool, now the Yankees turn to implode!!!
I thought our pitching sucked…..this is pathetic!
Interesting point Trumom. That is actually what they say about the Scioscia Angels!!! The heck with LA, California, or Anaheim. They are the Scioscia Angels!! LOL!!!
The Angels never finish strong…..they are always in the playoffs and never win the ring!
Lol, trublu. I would love to meet you and Nelly and everyone else. Next season we must make sure we do. Cole Hamels is pretty cute in a Ken Doll kind of way, but doesn't compare to our guys ): Hey, jhall!
I take that back….they did win once….wasn't it against the Giants?
And, Bluecrewgirl, you are right about Hamels…not too bad.
Actually, the Angels have won the Series in this century!!! Wish we could say that!!!
LOL Trumom, and beating the G'nats makes it even better!!! Probably the only time I rooted for the AL!!!
That's true, Jhall. But, they are expected to win. Everybody, supposedly in the know, always picks them but, nobody ever picks the Dodgers.
Yep Trumom, but that is because we sucked hard for a long time. The Fox/DePodesta debacle!!!
We are only now getting back to what made the Dodgers a storied and model franchise!!!
Jhall, the Fox years were a dark period in Dodger history as far as ownership was concerned. At least I think the McCourts care about the Dodgers in their own way. I still miss the O'Malley dayss though.
I remember it well, Jhall! I still think that in the playoffs, it's the hot team at the moment who wins it all…not necessarily the best team. Everyone thought the Cards, with Pujols and Holliday along with their pitching was the best team in baseball.
Agreed Bleu!!!
Yep Trumom, no one gave us a snowballs chance in Hell' of beating the Cards this year, or the Cubs last year!!! We're on the right track!!! Something I couldn't say a few years ago.
It really does come down to starting pitching and defense to win championships!!!
In 88, we had a scrappy team that was focused (courtesy of Mr Gibson) and played good fundamental baseball and the best pitcher in baseball.
And we had the two Tims, Leary and Belcher and a great bullpen to compliment the Bulldog, jhall. That team wrote the book on pitching wins championships as far as I'm concerned. Leary also chipped in with a great bat for a pitcher that season.
Ahhhh the memories Bleu!! Thanks!!!
I am so pisssed off……it has taken 25 minutes to get one entry on here! I truly hope that be the start of the season these damn SUBMISSION ERRORS are a thing of the past!
I wanted to say, jhall, that we are on the right track……we just have to keep from getting derailed!
And, our hometown boy, Brian Fuentes got the save for the Angels. So, now the Yankees can win at home!
I've still got the 88 series and NL championship on VHS tape. I recorded every game. It was magical. I need to break those babies out!!! LOL!!!
Sorry Trumom!! They do need to address their server. We've outgrown it. Also, I hope the impending divorce doesn't derail our progress or side track it!!! I'm a bit concerned. Sounds like it could get ugly!!!
It was magical, jhall, from Orel's record breaking season to Gibby's homerun and so many awesome moments in between. I can't believe it was 21 years ago. Makes me feel really old, lol. I really want Andre, Matt, Loney, Martin, Bills, Brox and all the young guns to get to experience that kind of magic together. Hopefully, they will.
Amen Bleu!! Definately have the nucleus to get there. Gonna come down to what Ned and ownership does to put us over the top.
Jhall ~ didn't you hear, we here on ITD, are all chipping in to become the new owners! lol
Wow Tru, wouldn't that be sweet!! We really could make Dad/Eric the GM, and Enchanted the Manager!!!!
I think they did it last week. June had to find our list of the "job appointments" and yes, Enchanted is the GM and Dodgereric is Manager. We even gave Shad a position.
Don't you wonder, though, what would have happened if we would have spent the money on CC, Lee or Halliday? At the time, we wondered what or who we would have to give up but, it may not have been that much, in order to win a championship.
20 minutes waiting to get this post on here! Not having fun right now!
LOL!!! It all comes down to player development!!! If you've got bodies in the pipeline, you have many more options.
Red Sox and Yankees can get away with it and just buy what they need. The rest of us, not so much!!! However, it usually doesn't work out!!!
Fox people tried it!!! Huge bust!!!!!
Good Evening Late Night ITD!!!! Looks like we had some good conversation this evening. We saw the end of the Yankees/Angels game. Brian always seems to make it interesting at times. Sorry Dodgereric………..it looks like you are going to have to suffer with your Angels buddies at work for one more day. Hopefully by the end of the weekend, they will be in the same boat we are………………….done.
Sorry I missed you Jhall!!! It looks like we are in for a fun filled off season with all the McCourt drama, mixed in with Manny drama, arbitration with our young core, and the possible acquisitions, along with the up and comers perhaps in our farm system.
Bluecrewgirl – Thanks for the memories of 1988.
Good late evening ITD boys and girls!
Josh ? Thank YOU for everything you do for us!!! Thanks for the tour!!! Next year, we just have to make sure we have a picnic after the tour so we can actually talk to each other!!!
Okay, let me say my piece about the Dodgers starting 8. I want the Dodgers to give Blake DeWitt a legitimate chance of winning the starting 2B job. Don?t get me wrong, I like the O-Dawg, but DeWitt is young and has SO MUCH upside. I hate the ?trade-bait? talk that includes DeWitt. I like having Casey Blake here; I don?t think many of us (if any) see it, but I really think Casey has a calming influence on the team ? a PVL in the BEST sense of the acronym! He plays a good 3B. Nothing great, but he?s good nonetheless. I KNOW that Manny isn?t going anywhere. No one in his or her right mind would take a chance on Manny. So for me, Manny is here for 2010, whether I like it or not (and I don?t.) I hope Eric is right in that he tried to play hurt, and it didn?t work. I don?t know about Russ. I?d like to think that 2009 was a weird year for him and he?ll be back to his old form in 2010. But I?m not sure if I?m ready to take that leap of faith. And about our J Lo? I think he will be just fine. He did have a lot of RBIs this year. So he didn?t have that many HRs; I think his HR production will get better in 2010. Raffy, well, is Raffy. I like him, but to me, he?s like Russ. Not sure what to think of him right now. Our CF and RFers are fine, just the way they are!!!
Oh, and I know I?m kinda late, but I was reading the last thread, and saw the many pleasant posts that Phan put up. So here it is: Phan, thank you very much. Your team outplayed the Dodgers and deserved to win the NLCS. Good luck in the WS ? especially if you play the Yanks!
But this off-season will be VERY INTERESTING indeed with the Frankie/Jamie soap opera!
Hey CP!!!! How are you this fine late evening? I am finally getting around to reading all the articles about the Dodgers. I didn't have the stomach to read them last night.
You know it must have taken Andre some guts to say this, but he did………………………………what we have been saying all season. The Dodgers needed an Ace.
After losing the NLCS to the Phillies for a second straight season, outfielder Andre Either expressed the Dodgers need for an ace pitcher.
"I think they have a clear No. 1 guy," Ethier said, in reference to the National League champion Phillies. "That's the biggest thing. No disrespect for our pitchers, the way they've performed, but when you've got a Cliff Lee, a veteran guy who knows how to pitch and has pitched well and is carrying some hardware with him, you've got a great guy to lead off your staff." Los Angeles starters had a 5.30 ERA over eight starts during the postseason. The rotation could see a significant makeover, with Randy Wolf, Vicente Padilla and Jon Garland expected to hit the free agent market. Dodgers fans will no doubt clamor for Roy Halladay this winter. Oct. 22 – 9:18 am et
Source: MLB.com
My Nellygirl!!!
I?m doing fine. It?s been a while since I?ve been here (for any great length of time). I saw Josh?s thank you, and had to post! If you didn?t read it, go back to yesterday?s thread and take a gander at Phan?s posts. I was truly amazed, but it?s nice that he/she (again, I still don?t know which) gave the Dodgers a lot of credit. Which, as you know, is very contrary to what he/she usually posts.
Yeah, I not only read what Andre said, but I saw a clip of the interview on ESPN this morning (or was it MLBN?) I don?t know. But he did have the guts to say what he said. I know some people in the press, in the Dodger community, in the MLB community may not like what he said, but it needed to be said. I mean, Andre isn?t the first, nor will he be the last baseball player to make such a call about his team. All I hope for is that Andre doesn?t see any negative repercussions as a result of his comment.
CP – I did see Phan's comments, but not until after the fact. He got caught up in our time warp issues eventhough I was on ITD at the time. I am impressed and I wish the Phillies the best, like you said, especially if they have to play the Yankees. I was telling Dodgereric earlier today, I am not too thrilled about any of the teams in there right now, but at this point it's about the NL over the AL. It's will be a toss up if the Angels happen to get passed the Yankees, however slight that might be. I know the Angels winning is not going to be good for the Dodgers and their fans in So-Cal or certain individuals who have to work and live with Angels fans.
CP – I am sure even if you asked the pitching staff in all honesty, they would say the same thing. I am sure they know it had nothing to do with them. I took the comment as Ned and Frank should have done a better job in getting them a SP that was a proven ace. We as fans, knew they really didn't have an ace, so you know the position players thought it as well. I think Kuroda could have been if he had stayed healthy, but once he went down, it should have been a #1 priority to replace him with someone of his caliber or stronger. I think we could have gotten Lee or Halladay, but I think Ned's hands were tied to Franks cheap checkbook.
Nelly ? At first I was hoping the Angels would beat he Yankees; I can?t stand the Yankees. And I still love Mike Scioscia! I know Eric has some issues with Angel fans at work, but hey, when did it become a requirement that everyone at ITD has the exact same likes and dislikes!!! But yes, I do see your point about So-Cal Dodger fans having to hear all about it from Angel fans. And I live with one! Well, maybe I?ll go back to my ?whoever? attitude about the ALCS winner. On one hand, I?d like the Angels to win, but on the other hand, I don?t want to keep on hearing about it if they do come back and get into the WS.
Some things are a given for 2010. Ethier and Kemp, who had 100-plus RBI seasons, have established themselves as fixtures in the outfield — for at least as long as the club can afford them.
Nelly ? About the pitching, oh, don?t get me started. It REALLY disgusts me that after the 2008 season, and after Torre TOLD NED that he needs quality, starting pitchers, who did Ned get? All of his reclamation projects. And think of it ? who of Ned?s reclamation projects actually worked? I too think that Frank tied Ned?s hands. Yes I said earlier that I want Blake DeWitt as our starting 2B. But again could he be used as trade-bait? Yes, very possibly. I would HATE it, but it?s very possible. After last off-season, I don?t even want to venture a guess on who we should target trading for (i.e. Halladay, who of course would come at a very high cost) or signing a FA. The only FA pitcher that I know of that?s barely in his 30s and still has some good years in him left is John Lackey. I wouldn?t mind seeing him in the front of our rotation.
Well, a bunch of redirect loops! Yuck! I'll try this again!
Well Nelly, it is getting late, and I?ve gotta hit the hay! I?ll catch up with ya later?
Martin (I wanted Carlos Santana back)
Dewitt (give him the 2nd bases job now)
Furcal (sorry Furcal is Gordon time or DeJesus time)
Gallagher (is he's ready to take over lol) or maybe Pedro Baez damn I missed Josh Bell lol. Kick Blake to the curve and voided his contract.
Played the kids if they're ready lol. Kick anny cancer butt in the street.
Pierre (we still struck with him)
Gallagher is he's ready to take over) maybe Pedro Baez
I really hate the lack of stolen bases in the last 2 playoff series vs Philly. We really need to play more small ball and the first 3 have excellent speed.
Thanks Josh for everything! Thanks Dodger Team for a great season! Thanks ITD for all the great comments and interesting reading! I didn't post much this year but read everything. Maybe next year I'll speak up more. I am proud of the team because they played like a team. I am proud of our young guys and our veterans. As fans we sometimes expect a lot, we scream and yell in the comfort of our own home, we tell everyone how to do their jobs, but we do that because we care and we want the team to do well. This team, this year, feels like family. I can't explain it. I just feel it. I hope it feels like that next season as well. What ever happens with the McCourt's isn't any of my business. I just hope it doesn't affect the team. I can't say I am not worried about it. With the season over it's time to go back to the gym, get projects done around the house, catch up on the work I let slide while I was watching the game at home or at the stadium. The holidays will come and go and before you know it we will be ready for spring training. I have a grand baby on the way and she already has her Dodger booties, bib, blanket, etc. She will be at a game, we figure, at 3 months and probably 6 months. Got to break her into the joys of the game. And what a game it is!
Nevermind about Gallagher and he's only 20 years old and Baez is 21 and he also look likehe has Pedro Feliz like numbers and don't walk much and a pathetic obp and they might need more seasoning.
I didn't even know Wolf was a type A FA's even with all those no decision.
This is a better one. It sure alot of good options hetre.
Discussion: What's Next For The Dodgers?
By Mike Axisa [October 22, 2009 at 5:53pm CST]
The Phillies pounded the Dodgers' pitching staff last night en route to a World Series berth, so now the newly signed Ned Colletti will go to work trying to improve his club for next year.
Los Angeles has a few prominent players due to become free agents, including Orlando Hudson, Jim Thome, Randy Wolf, Mark Loretta and Ronnie Belliard. They also have $42MM in options to sort out between Manny Ramirez, Vicente Padilla, and Jon Garland, although Manny's is a player option while Garland's is mutual. Let's not forget that Russell Martin, Andre Ethier, George Sherrill, Jonathan Broxton, Chad Billingsley, Matt Kemp, and Hong-Chih Kuo are all eligible for arbitration. That could get expensive very quickly.
What do MLBTR's readers think the Dodgers need to do this offseason? Acquiring a front-line starting pitcher would seem like a top priority, so they may choose to make a play for Roy Halladay or attempt to sign John Lackey. They'll also need to figure out who's playing second. Just throwing some names out there – what about a package deal for Dan Uggla and Josh Johnson?
*****JOSH*******: why you making me cry…LOL Thanks Josh for giving us this little (huge) blog for Dodger (& Non-Dodger) fans to chat. Thanks for the tour. We have great memories from that day and my family really enjoyed. Thanks for the Russell Martin autograph baseball I won during the ITD tour – I am still a MARTINISTA & ETHIERAHOLIC. This 2009 season was a great one. Several records where broken and the season was just full of drama. Hey a book can be written with just season 2009 alone. Well the drama begins in 2008. But now the long wait for spring training starts. Please do keep posting and keeping us in the loop of things. Have a great off-season time!
(Ethieraholic & Martinista but most important a DODGER FAN)
CONGRATULATIONS KEMP for making the National League All-Star team!
Josh – Thanks for the ITD blog. It's a great outlet for celebration or frustration with fellow Dodger fans and apparently a lost Phillies fan too.
Thanks fellow ITDers for a fun season!
Now it's time to play Divorce Court and hope there's something left for us fans come Spring 2010…
"Show me a giant rooster chasing a member of Parliment, and I'll show you a chicken catch a Tory."
ALWAYS used to watch Soupy!
Vin should just buy the Dodgers….a true Dodger
Hey, what was with Phan trying to make nice on the last thread?
Maybe its just me, but someone who pees all over your shoes doesn't get thanked later when they pat you on the back and tell you how nice they are.
I wonder if Frank patted Jamie on the back after he fired her?
ENCHANTED: Maybe we have rubbed off on him and he likes it here. Then most of us did not go trashing on the Phillies after the Dodgers loss. I guess we are all being MATURE about the whole situation.
SCOTT: He probably had security walk her out! And patt her down to make sure she didn't take the stapler.
Who or what is Phan?
Probably just complimented her on her shoes Scott.
This is going to be an ugly divorce…..poor Dodgers
"Pobably just complimented her on her shoes Scott."
By enchantedsunset on October 23, 2009 11:38 AM
Was that after she kicked him in the nuts?
They are going to have to sell the team to split the assets down the middle.
Does Arte Moreno have a brother?
As a full-fledged equal owner of the Dodgers, I think Jamie should immediately file a rejection of the Colletti contract extension as unauthorized, followed by an injunction against her removal from Dodgers' management, followed by a motion to establish a trust for making all business decisions for the Dodger organization until all ownership issues are adjudged in a court of law.
In other words, get old Frank by the nuts and squeeze hard. Lock up all money accounts until the ownership is decided in the courts.
Bear – it'll be like the Fox years, only with a "U".
And once all facets are frozen in litigation, just let the ITD crowd make majority-rule decisions on roster personnel…coaches, included, of course. And based on post-season performance, please raise your hand if you would like to see a new pitching coach, say………..Orel?
The court could do much worse than select among ITD for interim personnel and business decisions. The most important thing however is to keep Bud Selig far away from any decisions concerning the franchise.
I'm raising my hand, Kahli. Orel for me!
Guess what? No pre-nup!
Orel – YES!!!
I like Orel for pitching coach. Honeycutt just sits around eating ding dongs all day from what I can tell from the tv…
Scioscia is the best manager – dammit Fox!!
I want to tell you that I'm excited. I'm very, very excited! I've had an epiphany! My life has changed, forever and EVER! And what's even better is, that yours has too.
I can solve everyone's problems. Here's my plan:
Today's payday. I find that, after I've paid my bills, I have $20 burning a hole in my pocket. I was thinking of going to the movies, but here's where my epiphany enters the picture.
I'll take that $20 to the Pechanga casino, right down the road. Roulette pays 35:1, right? I'll put it on 48, my lucky number. BANG! That turns into $700! Not too exciting, but wait: I let it ride! BANG! At 35:1, that turns into $24,500! Do it again and it's $857,500! I know, it seems like a lot of money, but it's not enough to pay for Matt Kemp's arbitration. But do it again and it's $30,012,500! Still, not bad but we're still not to 1/3 of the payroll. One more time, 48 hits and we're talkin' serious money. $1,050,437,500! Serious, but not enough. I need a 6th parlay. That'll get me $36,765,312,500. Bingo. Easier and quicker than the Lottery.
Toss that into a savings account @ 2% interest and we're really cooking.
Forbes says the Dodgers are worth $722 million. Chump change. I buy the Dodgers from the Battling Bickersons, give them cab fare to the airport and I've still got more than $36 BILLION left.
I hire our ITD staff at $1 million apiece. Aren't you glad I thought of this?
I build a state-of-the-art absolute-duplicate of Dodger Stadium (the OLD one, without the Hollywood Bowl box seats) in Temecula for about $1 billion, rename them The Los Angeles Dodgers of Southern California and accomplish several goals:
1) I get to see all the home games without driving 100 miles
2) I boost Temecula's economy
3) I piss off the Angels AND the Padres at the same time
4) Probably some more stuff I haven't thought of yet
Wait a sec, you say. There's no major airport around Temecula. I thought of that. There is a private airport about 7 miles up the road. I buy 5 Lear jets – they can't cost more than $1 mil or so – paint 'em Dodger Blue and Dodger White. The starting pitchers can ride in the one labeled #32, the starting 8 can ride in #22, the bullpen in #16, the bench in #11 and the manager (me) and my staff in #2. We have our private little air force. I'll have us fly in formation, like ducks. All of America will see us flying in that "V" and know EXACTLY who's up there. No more waiting at the airport for our guys, just like the old days.
But what about the other teams? They don't have private planes. Thought of that. Who cares? They can bus themselves in from San Diego or Ontario.
But what about the beautiful vistas around Dodger Stadium? Hey, we have that in spades here. Plus the air is cleaner.
But the players! Aren't they going to be angry about having to move to Temecula? No. You should see all the 5-acre parcels we have in the hills around here. Privacy galore. The beach in 30 minutes. The desert in 20. The mountains in an hour.
But what about you-all? I can't give ALL of you a million-dollar job. Tell you what. Send me $48 and I'll make you a minority stock holder. Now we ALL have a share in OUR team! We'll make the Yankees the 2nd highest payroll in baseball. We'll develop our own and pay them enough and treat them well enough that leaving will be the LAST thing they'll ever want to do. We'll still fill in the occasional gap with a free agent, but we'll stay home-grown for the most part. Winning the whole enchilada is the objective of every season, but no one gets fired unless he/she steals from me or is caught wearing gear from another team. Yeah, it's still America but let's not get carried away.
To replace Torre in 2011, raise your hand if you'd prefer Tim Wallach (AAA Manager of Year) to Donny Baseball.
Mattingly was a great Yankee…YANKEE, not DODGER…I would like to see someone who can appreciate what Dodger baseball once was.
You got it, scott! There's only one problem. I was really looking forward to going to the movies tonight. "Law Abiding Citizen" and some popcorn. They have flavoring now that you can sprinkle on the popcorn and it's really good………..
Geez, now I'm NOT in the Time Warp…… maybe I am now.
Nope, not yet.
Eric – beautiful plan – I'm in!
lol – I'll keep my $48 in a safe place until you make up your mind
Yeah, don't send money in yet Scott. I have a 17-year-old son that isn't used to seeing money lying around.
Hello Josh! – Please fix this stupid time warp since the season is over and you can't do anything else significant until Frank & Jamie finish their split. TIME STAMP 2:51 pm
Wow!!! What a plan Dodgereric!! I can put in my $48, but yeah, you're right. I will hang on to it until you decide. However, it's not because of Matt. Lucy might get a hold of it and decide on a new decorating idea for your house 🙂
Anybody other than Mattingly is my choice, if we're thinking that far ahead. I'm not sure that the McCourts will have settled anything by 2011. They probably won't agree even as to who will be the batboy by then.
I worry for ITD, the children of a looming divorce:
Children from divorced homes have more psychological problems. (martini, anyone?)
Children of divorce are four times more likely to report problems with peers and friends. (we all enjoy each other here in ITD land…but just wait…)
Children of divorce, particularly boys, tend to be more aggressive toward others. (see phan)
Children who have seen their parents divorce, one of every 10 will also live through three or more parental marriage breakups. (please don't sell the Dodgers to any more married couples)
Looks like we are going to have a very busy winter. And, we all thought it was going to be boring!
The idea of one buying out the other to extablish single ownership in the franchise would make sense under normal circumstances, and that's assuming that other partners can be lined up or additional loans established. I don't see that happening in this situation, because they'll be fighting for prestige in addition to all their other issues. The quickest and best solution would be if they have to sell the franchise, but I don't know of anybody who would be able and willing to pay that top dollar. Does anybody know anything about their four grownup sons? Wonder if any of them can wind up taking a part in this ownership issue.
Damn, time warp!
You're right Kahli – I'm gonna be bad now!!!
That is so fantastic, Nellyjune! And, I can just picture your reaction when you received the letter! I know how you react when Dre hits a homerun! lol
LOL, Enchanted!
Now I can write what I came on here to write. I came on here and saw Dodgereric's post, and then I had to finish up Parent/Teacher Conferences.
I came back from a field trip today, and I had a large envelope in my mail box at school, and low and behold, it was from Andre Ethier…………………..#16, right-fielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers himself. I think I scared everyone in the office because of my reaction. They thought something was wrong, but it was quite the opposite. It was a letter, hand written, thanking me for all the things my class had done during the beginning of his 2008 season for his birthday in April. We had sent him a life size birthday card (which he mentioned in the letter), a whole bunch of pictures of the classroom(which he is putting in his scrapbook), and a Flat Stanley, which if you were around then, know who he is. He apologized for it being so long to respond, and he mentioned all the mail he gets (I don't doubt that for a second LOL!!!), but he said no excuses. The best part about the letter is it is dated 10-12-09, so it was written during the playoffs, and it was on a sheet of blue lined paper most likely out of a Daytimer. There is two parts to the letter, and each part is written using a different pen, as if he started it, but then came back to add more to the letter. The letter is signed by him with his famous Andre Ethier signature which I know so well. He also signed a photo for my class and he signed Flat Stanley as well. So, needless to say, it certainly made my day. I wasn't expecting anything, nor have I ever. I just wanted him to know there are fans of his out there everywhere, and I am doing my best to start them off young.
So, Josh ~ If you get the chance to talk to Andre soon, please let him know that getting that letter, no matter how late, was just truly awesome. Also, not like I need any more reasons to appreciate all he does on and off the field, but this Ethieraholic just became even more proud that he is wearing a Dodger uniform.
Debbie Nelson/Mrs. Nelson
This is so much fun being in a time warp…..I can answer a post before it is posrted!
Hi everybody on ITD.
Thanks again Josh for the wonderful time I had at Dodger Stadium, meeting the players and on the tour and that wonderful time I had that day riding around Downtown Los Angeles and to get a chance to take in the game with owner Frank McCourt.
Meeting so many of the guys and gals that post on this great blog was really something special.
I'll never forget any of it as long as I live.
This is the first time I'm posting since the end of the game on Wednesday night.
I got home pretty late from Manhattan and than started noting the results of the game on my results sheets, that I keep.
I decided to go to bed early last night, since I was really bushed.
It was a great NLCS, except a little one sided.
To me the biggest disappointment was not going deeper into the series.
After thinking about it enough I think Billingley was the missing chad.
Bills in top form could've won at least one game.
That one win could've brought the team back to LA and no telling what could've happen in front of all you adoring fans.
Good afternoon ITD boys and girls!
I can?t stay long; just this post. But after reading Debbie?s (a.k.a. My Nellygirl?s) post about what she got in the mail today, I HAD to write this.
OMG Debbie, that is just beyond awesome! As a fellow Ethieraholic, I could just put myself in your shoes and just imagine what you were feeling while you were reading Andre?s letter!
I?ll catch up with y?all later?
Maybe Chad should've started game 3. He does owned Phillies in the regular season but suck against them in the playoff last year. Early in the season he did pitch 7th innings and given up 1 run, 3 hits, 4 walks and 9 k's.
Bills vs. PHI in the regular season. 4 4 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 25.0 21 9 9 1 15 23 3.24 1.44 .244
One of many BS/cheap win for Broxton when Bills pitching. In that game Broxton give up a 2 outs 2 runs double to Ruiz of all people.
Josh, let me add my thanks as well for hosting this forum. Please keep up the good work and let us know what is going on with the Dodgers. We know you can't really tell us much until after it happens but we are all interested in what goes on in your world during the off season. It might not be interesting to you but trust me, it will to us. Besides, it helps break up the threads.
As everyone else has said, the end of the season was quite disappointing. As I type this I just remembered had the Dodgers extended the series I would be watching them right now at Dodger Stadium. Now I have more "phantom" tickets to add to my collection. Sad to say I have quite a few tickets from playoff and Series games that were never played.
I see you all in good form and good spirits today and yesterday. Once again, you folks say some of the funniest things. And Nelly, congrats on your note from Andre. I know how exciting it is even for a grownup to receive such a thing. It made me feel good to read your post about it.
And thanks to all of you for a lot of fun this season. Hopefully we can all get together again at Dodger Stadium next season.
Bottom 9th: Philadelphia
– J. Broxton relieved C. Wade
– R. Howard struck out swinging
– J. Werth struck out swinging
– R. Ibanez singled to center
– G. Dobbs hit for P. Feliz
– R. Ibanez to second on fielder's indifference
– G. Dobbs walked
– C. Ruiz doubled to deep right, R. Ibanez and G. Dobbs scored
– E. Bruntlett hit for B. Lidge
– E. Bruntlett struck out swinging
I am not into stats like some of you but it is clear the Dodgers had problems all season long with giving up too many walks, HBP and wild pitches. Maybe these situations don't always cost the team a game but they do add to that all too popular pitch count stat. Those late inning walks from relief pitchers just drive me crazy.
Absolutely fantastic Nelly!!! That is too cool!!! Good for you!!! What a class act Andre is!!!
Debbie, Nellyjean Mrs Nelson,
Just want you to know that I read your post and I am very happy for you.
You Ethierholic. You.
Thanks alot for blowing that save Broxton we should've had a game tonight.
LOL Shad!!! Not piling on, but that really was the pivotal moment in the NLCS!!! We had them tied at 2-2 and make it a best 2 of 3 with us holding home field advantage. May not have made a difference in the final outcome, but I sure would like to have seen that scenario play out!!!
Our bullpen, except Kuo, stunk!!!
As far as next year, the only untouchables I have are: Ethier, Kemp, Loney, Kuo, and Kersh!!!! I'd entertain trades for all the rest. That is if Ned can get equal value for them. Something he hasn't exactly been stellar at to this point!!
I'm on the fence with Brox!! I'd have to get a hell'ova deal to trade him!!!!
Great point Trumom!! Brox and Billz need to get with Orel and Kirk Gibson. They are very young and need the right mind set. The bulldog mindset!!! Hey D4!! I'd have to get a ton for Billz and Martin. If we would have offered them to Cleveland, I believe we could have gotten Lee and Martinez!!!
Good evening, all. As the NLCS painfully pointed out, our starting pitching is pretty suspect, something all of us knew as far back as before this season started. Assuming that Torre's comments represents management's thinking on the subject, they've, more or less, discounted the possibility of getting an ace by trade or free agency, preferring instead to hope that either Kersh or Bills will step up. Kersh has a tremendous upside but he's still very young. Bills, too, has the goods but can he put it all together? We are going to need an ace-like pitcher to anchor our mostly unproven starting rotation. Lackey is a definite possibility and we could give our AL neighbors a black eye at the same time. Halliday would be a year long rental and we would have to give up too much to get him. If we go the route of this year, we will probably suffer the same fate as this year. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result
I'd keep the same players also, Jhall. I know everyone is blaming Brox for the blown save but, he was very reliable for the most part all season……I know, it's the post season that counts but, there aren't many closers out there who are better than Jonathan. In fact, except for a few starting pitchers, I think most of the pitching throughout baseball stunk!
Evening Jhall……I agree with the untouchables….I would add Brox he was a big part of the 95 wins……So where do you evaluate the rest of them…take for instance, Billingsley… what is fair trade value in your opinion, or Martin??
Hi'Ya Sky!!! Nice post and I agree totally!!! Lackey is very intriguing!!!
Lackey is only 31 and doesn't have a bad injury history. He will be pricey!!! He and Backe are probably the best available FA pitchers!!!
Hey, jhall. Lackey has the bulldog mentality that others were talking about. Anybody who saw last night's game witnessed evidence of that.
I'm really anxious to see Dad/Erics report on our farm system and what we have in the pipeline.
Exactly Sky!! He's a gamer!!! He really would be a good fit for the Dodgers!!! Price tag I fear, will be high.
Good Evening ITD readers and writers!!!!! Yes, I am still smiling from ear to ear. You know the best part of the letter is it's just so plain and simple………………plain blue-lined note paper, no Dodger Logo, just his handwriting and that's it.
lbirken – it's things like this which keep us young at heart. I felt just like a little kid, going around telling everyone who would listen.
oldbrooklynfan – thanks 🙂
CP – Yes, you would know how I feel seeing how you and I really think alike.
Jhall – He just keeps proving over and over again what a class act he is.
Hi'Ya Nelly!! I'm very happy for you. That letter was from one class act to another IMO!!! You go girl!!!!
Now talking Dodger baseball – I am all for going after Lackey. We need to get some of these amazing pitchers on our side for a change, and he is definitely one of them.
Lackey is head and shoulders above anybody else in this year's free agent pitchers. Which means either the Yankees or the Red Sox will offer him an obscene amount of money to sign.
You're probably right Sky. He is a difference maker!!! Boston will be especially motivated!!!
Thanks Jhall!!! You aren't too shabby yourself sir.
nelly–congrats on your Dre letter!! What a great gesture from a real class individual!!!
Merci Nelle'!!!
I see where Garland and the Dodgers have a mutual option for 10M!!! What do you think gang?
I'd take the option on Garland myself.
Was thinking back to '77 and '78 (granted it was the World Series, but they only had to win one 5-game series to get there each time…sound familiar?). Anyway, the team lay fallow in '79 and '80, to finally win it all in '81, with basically the same cast of characters…except three: a young ace, a young closer, and a young power hitter. All home grown. Is there a Fernando, a Howe, and a Guerrero hiding down there somewhere? I'll tell you what. All three had that intangible–the no-nonsense WILL to win.
He isn't an ace, but 10M doesn't buy an ace. 2010 starting rotation:
Wolf would not be a bad choice if we trade Billz or don't keep Garland. Just some early speculation gang!!
He isn't an ace, but 10M doesn't buy an ace. 2010 starting rotation:
Wolf would not be a bad choice if we trade Billz or don't keep Garland. Just some early speculation gang!!
That's an awful lot of money for a 3rd or 4th starter. About the same as Maddux wanted from us before he signed with the Padres. But, considering the market, he'll probably get it from somebody else if not us. He did pitch well down the stretch for us this year. We could do a lot worse.
I'd only trade Bills if we could get reasonably equal pitching value in return. In this market, that's not likely to happen. I'd keep Wolf if the price is reasonable.
I, too ,like your rotation, jhall. I also agree that it's too early to give up on Bills or Brox. So how much do you guys think it will take to sign Lackey. I'm guessing CC money or pretty close to it.
I thought Garland did well for us for the short amount of time he was with us.
I agree Sky!!! Too bad, but 10M doesn't go very far in the quality starting pitching game these days!!!!!
Not a bad rotation Jhall!!!
Well, its obvious where our team needs to improve the most. Starting pitching!!! I think Frank, Ned, and JoJo are on that page also.
I'd be happy with it Nelly!!! LOL!!!
WAY too early to give up on Broxton and Bills, two home-grown kid pitchers who could dominate for YEARS. Trade Honeycutt. Those two kids alone should cost him his job.
Really good starting pitching takes care of alot of bullpen issues as well!!!
That's a given Kahli!!! LOL!! Good point!!!
I'd be offering Carte Blanc to Orel, Maddux, or Steve Stone to coach our pitching staff!!!!!
Hell', go after Dave Duncan!!!
I am in agreement with Kersh and Brox. We have said all season how young Kersh is, but Brox is young as well. He is only 25.
I meant to say Billz and Broxton. I was thinking of Kerhaw's age and that Billz and Brox are not much older than he is.
?Dave Cameron at FanGraphs looks at the David Wright-Jose Cruz Jr. non-trade, and says that the Blue Jays messed up by not making the deal, but not because Wright developed into an All-Star. He says J.P. Ricciardi did wrong by not getting any return for Cruz Jr. before he left as a free agent in the offseason.
hahahahahaha the Blue Jays GM is dumb if this was truth.
Beltre back to LA?
PM ETAdrian Beltre | Mariners Top Email After a rebound season, the Seattle Mariners will have to start all over again, at least at third base.
Send Blake butt back to Cleveland and I would love to see what Beltre could had done again after his MVP season..
Thank god, we have Dad/Eric to sort all this out!! Goodnight and Excelsior True Believers!!!!!
As much as I didn't want to acknowledge this during the season, ( I was hoping Bills would regain form. ) It seems that when Bills had to face the higher caliber talent not only in the All Star game but the top of the St Louis order in the 6Th, shortly after the All Star game he just fell apart. This goes back to the post that Khali made earlier on Fernando, Howe, and Guerrero ( Which by the way khali was a brilliant observation. ) These guys had that determination to get through the tougher challenges that faced them. Where is Bills going to obtain this mindset, or is he??? Kershaw seems to have it even if he hasn't harnessed it yet.
Also what is going to be the situation in 2010 with Stults, Leach, Elbert, McDonald, and Wade all whom made appearances in 2009???
Something tell me McDonald should've been activated over Elbert.
Good Night Jhall!!! Take Care, and have a wonderful Saturday. I hope your Buckeyes can get it done tomorrow. God Bless and thanks again. You are the tops yourself 🙂
Good points Dodger4life. It will be interesting to see were they play a role in the upcoming talks and the 2010 season.
G'Night jhall.
There's only one man for the pitching coach job, and he could learn under Torre to become manager. Maybe Frank and Jamie will try to outdo each other and one will make the splashy move!!!!!! Orel Hershiser……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Does Monkey Whiskers come back??? How about Castro???
Hudson cleaned out his locker early so I am assuming he is on his way somewhere else ( that is just an assumption. )
Good night, all!!!! Hope Game 6 doesn't get rained out in the Bronx. Anybody but the Yankees!!!!
Kahli – That would be wonderful if we got Hershiser.
Dodger4life – very good question about Mientkiewicz, especially. Eventhough he didn't get much playing time, he seemed to have a very positive impact in the clubhouse. He was my favorite non-starter just because of the attitude he brought to the game.
Khali I love the Bulldog. I wonder what his thoughts are on this subject. It seems Duncan may be available and he certainly has the resume and skills.
Good Night Seesky!!!!
Khali I love the Bulldog. I wonder what his thoughts are on this subject. It seems Duncan may be available and he certainly has the resume and skills.
I like Monkey Whiskers myself ( even if I still have problems with the spelling of his name…..sorry Doug. ) he seems to have that get it done attitude and veteren leadership quality…you know lead by example.
G'night seesky
Thats it for me as well, I have had to resign in a few times and a submission error as well…….
Good Night and God Bless us all……………..
Good Night Dodger4life!!!!!
I?m sure that a lot of readers of this blog get frustrated having to scroll past the NASCAR talk that Junie and D4 and shad and I and a few others post occasionally. But now with the Dodgers? season ended and still 5 races to go in the race season, if you are one of the many people who have the stereotyped image of the NASCAR world, do yourself a favor and read the following. Perhaps it might explain what is truly special about this sport and maybe you might tune in for a race or two.
From NASCAR.com today
?Can you imagine Tom Brady and Peyton Manning exchanging tips on throwing the football right before a big game? Or Derek Jeter sharing batting tips with an opposing player on the eve of the World Series?
Sounds pretty crazy, huh?
Well, it did to Juan Montoya, too, when he first started driving in the Cup Series three years ago. Montoya was used to the cut-throat spirit of Formula One racing when he went to his first NASCAR test, where he was stunned by what he experienced.
"Yeah, I was surprised," Montoya said. "The first person who did it was Kevin Harvick. We were testing in Miami for that first Cup race [at the end of the 2006 season] and there was an open test there and he came down and said, 'You've got to try to do this.'
"I didn't even go to him. He came to me and said, 'You've got to go a little deeper [into the corner] and do a little of this and a little of that.' I was like, 'Are you kidding me? You actually came here to help me?'
One of Montoya's favorite brains to pick is that of Mark Martin, who always seems agreeable to the skull sessions — even now, as the two battle each other in the Chase.
"Yeah, it makes no sense," Montoya said. "It's crazy, but he does [answer questions] and he helps. There's something great about this sport. People are really open about it. Once you're on the race track you are by yourself. You're on your own. Off the race track you can go to anybody and they'll help you. That is great to see."
What might not be so great to see from Martin's perspective is that if the student were to take what he learned from the teacher and beat him.
"Do I think Montoya could beat me? Sometimes," Martin said. "But he's probably going to beat me whether I answer his question honestly or not. And I'd much rather be honest than dishonest."
Read those last two sentences again. In a nutshell, that?s what attracted me to the sport. And what's more, I haven't really cared for Montoya. Until now. He gets it.
The full article: http://www.nascar.com/2009/news/headlines/cup/10/23/mmartin.jmontoya.drivers.helping.others/index.html
I am not a huge Montoya fan, but yea, this article certainly helps alot. Dodgereric~ yesterday, Denny and some of the other drivers were over at Kevin Harvick's house racing Go-Karts. It sounds like they all had a great time, and they raised some money for a charity as well. As much as they are all in it for themselves on the track on raceday, they certainly are an amazing group off men off the track…………….all of them. They all seem to have such a genuine respect for each other. It is something you don't see in any other sport really.
It's Friday night……………….no school tomorrow. ……..and can't I ask you the same question? 🙂
Dodgereric – How was the movie?
Apparently, I am not being time warped right now.
1:24 AM pst
Dang you still up Nelly?
Gosh 22 min should be 1:19 when I type that.
The movie "Law Abiding Citizen" was fairly violent, but really, really good – just short of outstanding. I enjoyed it, but it certainly isn't for everyone.
Not that there aren?t plenty of great guys in MLB, Junie, because there most certainly are. I?ve said it before, it?s the post-race interviews that are very telling. It?s literally 5 seconds after they?ve gotten out of the car from 500 miles of tension and fatigue, and 98% of the time they take the blame for a poor race and praise their team. Never do you hear the ?I was outstanding? type of talk. It?s character, and virtually all of them have it in spades.
But this is a Dodger blog, isn?t it? It?s late and I?m tired but let?s look at what must be a fun club to watch, our affiliate in the low Class A Midwest League, the Great Lake Loons of Midland Michigan. They finished second in the Eastern Division at 81 ? 59, 13 games out.
Leading the team in hitting was Devaris (Dee) Gordon, a 21-year-old SS. He?s 5?11/150, bats left and throws right (duh, he plays short). We drafted him in the 4th round in ?08. He hit .301 in 538 AB with 17-2Bs, 12-3Bs and 3 HRs, but what really stands out are his 73 stolen bases. He did get thrown out 25 times and only had 43 walks in 601 PA, which lead to a .362 OBP. The CS should improve naturally, but he might need to work on his walks. Nevertheless, he was voted the Branch Rickey Minor League Player of the Year, the Midwest League Prospect of the Year and league Co-MVP with teammate ????.
Kyle Russell. Drafted in the 3rd round in?08, he?s 23 and is 6?5?/190, left-handed all the way. He hit 39-2Bs, 7-3Bs, 26 HRs and knocked in 102 in 481 ABs. He also had 9 assists in mostly RF duty, but 180 SOs is keeping his BA down to .272. As was mentioned above, he was voted league Co-MVP along with Dee Gordon.
Jaime Pedroza warrants mention. A 9th-round pick in ?07, he?s 22, 5?10?/175. He started out at short, but spent most of this season at 2nd base. Like Russell, he needs to work on making contact with 162 Ks in 520 Abs, but hit 33-2Bs, 6-3Bs, 15 HRs and stole 36. He?s a switch hitter.
OK, now it?s even later, so let?s look at two more Loons who we need to keep track of, a couple of pitchers.
Ethan Martin is our #1 pick in ?08, a 20 year old right-hander, 6?2?/195. He threw exactly 100 innings, striking out 120 (great) and walking 61 (not). Sounds like one of ours, all right. He appeared in 27 games and started 19. He had 13 wild pitches and he hit 10. His ERA is 3.87 and a WHIP of 1.460. He only allowed 4 HRs. He finished well with an ERA of 3 for the last 2 months. It looks like they?re being pretty careful of his arm as he alternated between starting and relieving in at least his last 10 games. His middle name is Cash. If he gets to the bigs as a closer, we could have some fun with that.
Our first round pick this year is Aaron Miller, 21, 6?3?/200 a lefty. Having started pro ball this year, his sample size is small. He struck out 38 in 30 innings, walked 10 and had only 1 wild pitch and hit 2. His ERA was a fine 2.08 with a WHIP of only 1.085. He started all 7 of his games, so he?s averaging about 4 innings per start.
One more and I?m done for this evening/morning.
Luis Guerra, a 23-year-old right?hander from Texas, not to be confused with Luis Garcia, a 22-year-old right-hander from the Dominican. One of two closers on the team, he struck out 55 in 41 innings with 15 walks, an ERA of 1.54 and a WHIP of 0.927.
OK, that's it for now. Good night/morning and God Bless you all!
Yeah you can but I just woke up again nd still can't go back to bed.
Did someone say Gordon was the next Reyes?
Good Morning ITDland ~ Happy Birthday, Raffy!!
"Inappropriate behavior with a direct subordinate" as mentioned in Frank's termination letter to Jamie does suggest something juicy, does it not? Can't wait to hear more about it.
It may redefine the meaning of a seventh inning break…
LOL, Messagebear!
Ned and Joe say it's unlikely we end up with an "ace". Maybe they are just getting the word out that they still will not sell the farm to get one but I'd settle for a #1. Lackey was mentioned previously and he'd be a good addition for sure. We need someone besides Kuroda who has shown he won't wilt under playoff pressure. Keep Garland too, he qualifies.
His talents may be farther down on the want list, but I'd get Alex Cora back.
I would approach the Marlins for the possibility of acquiring Josh Johnson.
Good Morning I am LMAO thanks to the vision of Frank locking Jamie out of the office
Innapropriate behavior with a direct subordinate……….made Ice Cream Friday…..just a tad bit more entertaining I reckon…
Gotta run have a great day everyone…………..
I'll bet the Fajita Sundays were hot, hot, hot!!!!!
Good morning ITD boys and girls!
Well, perhaps if we ITDers post it enough, then maybe (yes a very big MAYBE) Ned would go out and sign Lackey. We all know that he would be a great addition to the rotation. Yes, he IS going to be pricey, and the Angels might offer him a lot to stay there; I know they certainly would want him back. But I don?t see the Angels getting into a bidding war with Boston & NY. And I don?t think we would either get into a bidding war either.
But even if we don?t get Lackey or obtain a front line pitcher, if nothing else, we NEED to change pitching coaches. I?m with many of you that getting Orel or Dave Duncan would be good. But I was talking to my husband the other day (actually Wednesday, after I came home from worship practice) about the pitching coach situation. He threw out a name that I hadn?t even thought of: Brad Ausmus. I know he would eventually become a very good manager someday, but for a former catcher advising pitchers? Take a look at Dave Duncan; he was a catcher in his playing days. So tell me my fellow ITDers, what do you think of Brad Ausmus being the Dodgers? pitching coach for 2010?
Here?s an MLB article about the subject of catchers becoming pitching coaches:
CP, I second your thoughts about Brad Ausmus becoming our pitching coach. I like it – I like it a lot!
Innapropriate behavior with a direct subordinate???
Ned does have that cheesey 70's mustache.
enchanted, I was actually thinking about Manny taking those early showers… Hmm?
Hmmmmmm indeed bear!!
I am not one to spread rumors, but rumor has it, it was her bodyguard. Now what ya thinkin' enchanted and messagebear? LMAO!!!!!!
BTW – Dodgereric – Nice work at 2 in the morning geez!!!. It sounds like we have some great young talent who may get their shot someday.
He did a great job guarding her body, Nellyjune!
I'd say above and beyond his call of duty!
Maybe she liked his gun.
LMAO!!!!!!!!! I knew you come up with something :))
Sorry if I sound incredulous, but Jamie's famous enough to need a bodyguard?
Let's do the time warp again!!!
So then it was Kevin Costner?
If that is all true, imagine what happens if Jamie wins ownership of the team – we'll have a bodyguard as GM. Of course, if it's Kevin Costner, he's got the experience from when he was in Field of Dreams.
I once dated a girl that packed a pair of 38s…
Occasionally I got to see them out of their holsters.
If that happens Bear, Scott Boras will be in the background saying, "If you pay them, they will come."
I wish I had a pair of 38's!
Turned out she was a witch Tru – everytime I got in the car with her I turned into a motel (rimshot please.)
Nowadays Tru I set my sights more realistically – like Ned.
Sloppy seconds.
Or thirds.
Or fourths.
You are too funny enchanted – LMAO!!!!!
Thank you!! Thank you!!!
I'll be playing all week at the Kokomo Holiday Inn. Remember, no cover charge on the Sunday matinee, and please be sure to tip your server.
So, does your wife think you are this funny? ……wait, it's why she married you? Nah!! It's because you are a good looking, Bruce Willis type aren't ya?
I made a reservartion…..front row! I'm a great heckler!
You folks are just sick. Funny, but sick. Thanks for the laughs. I needed it after the way my Bruins played today.
Normally I don't pay any attention to celebrity breakups. And, in reality I really don't care why the McCourts are splitting up. I am convinced they both want the Dodgers to win but they also seem to be very much engrossed with the celebrity, power couple stuff. They want to be important. They both seem to have egos that need stroking. But I haved to admit I am intrigued by this breakup because of how it may affect the Dodgers. In reality I don't care which one controls the Dodgers. Usually money solves these problems. From what we know the McCourts probably do not really have anything other than the Dodgers, and that is pretty much on paper. This should be interesting.
I think you would bring new meaning to the thought of an ITD Tour. ITD Tour ~ Starring EnchantedSunset, with guest stars, Messagebear, Jhall and Dodgereric, with a cast of others that is sure to be a hit. Coming to a city near you. Watch for details. Brought to you by the stories that keep the magic happening – The Los Angeles Dodgers.
The wife?
Oh yeah yeah, the wife… Don't know about this one, but I had the first one laughing all the way to the bank.
But seriously, take my wife – please!!
Oops, sorry Frank.
Remember, no one under 17 admitted to the ten o'clock show.
Definitely not!!!
You are something else, Enchanted!
He is definitely something 🙂
There are teams of scientists and psychiatrists trying to figure out exactly what.
LOL, they have their work cut out for them!
LMAO!!!!!!!!!! I am sure they are earning their money too.
Cabbage and black beans for dinner? – I'm the missing stink!!!
Applause, applause, applause!!!
Poor, Birk!
Meanwhile, Nellyjune and I have to live with you!
I must be Nells, my wife keeps telling me I'm turning into an old fart.
………but not too old yet. LOL!!!!!
Dammit, where's birk with my rimshots????
I can't work under these conditions…
Yeah my wife… she keeps telling me you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but I showed her… I'm begging every night.
Hello??? HELLO??? Is this thing on????
You must not be begging hard enough – LMAO!!!!!
Thanks, Enchanted. I never know where I'm going to show up!
Oh………….lbirken…………………..enchanted…….. needs you!!!! He is missing his daily dose of rimshots.
I hope you took your shot in your other cheek this time.
submission error hell once again 😦
Let's do the time warp again!!!!
It's just a jump to the left………………..
Ooohhhhh. Self-medication time!!! I'll be right back..
For those of you keeping track, our magic number is still 12.
TRU – tru – tru – tru
WE'RE UP HERE – here – here – here
No Tru – over here!!!
Try unplugging the power source to your modem and plugging it back in again. I don't get submission errors – I just get no response to the submit command at all, but the reconnect clears it for awhile.
Where's jhall??? I'm running out of material!!
really? hmmmmm…………..I will have to try that.
Probably out with Eddie.
There once was an owner named Frank,
Who unwittingly married a…
Skantly were away Nells – welcome back!!!
Enchanted ~ your time stamp was 20 – 25 minutes ahead of my actual time. Righht now it is 8:52 pm.
I restarted and it's okay for now.
LMAO!!!!!!!!!!! Amazing what Dodger blue Koolaid and Tequila can do to a person.
Exactly what I thought!
I'll be expecting another email from Josh in the morning.
And I ran out of Kool-Aid a few days ago…
Jamie is asking for friends on Facebook…..I wonder if we will find out some juicy gossip if we take her on. It would be fun just to see how many friends she acctually has.
I think we ought to send Bear.
Sounds like a good idea.
I'm the one drinking, and Tru's the one stuttering!!!
Oh, Josh must just love you when you drink Koolaid free tequila.
Bear would be good in a situation like that.
I'm drinking too! Stuttering doesn't come easy!
Hey, if I had to do an ITD breathalizer, I'd blow a 4-3 – just like Brox.
Our newest gadget…..an ITD Breathalizer…..very good….I bet we'd all fail!
Where is that birk???
For those of you reading along for the first time, Tru and Nells aren't always like this.
They're much much worse.
Imagine what we are like when we are in the same room.
Just to clarify for those of you reading for the first time………..we are mother/daughter, me being the daughter. So, take your mind out of the gutter people!!! (jk) LOL!!!!
Congratulations on your letter from Andre, Nelly! That's awesome that he took the time to do that, but we already knew how much class he has ):
Congratulations on your letter from Andre, Nelly! That's awesome that he took the time to do that, but we already knew how much class he has ):
BTW Nells, I forgot to congratulate you as well on the letter from Andre – very cool!!
Hey BCG!!
Hey bluecrewgirl!!!! Thanks, and yep, we already know that about Andre, and it's great to see it first hand too.
Hey, enchanted! Hope you are doing well.
Thanks enchanted!!!
I bet the kids that were in that class would be excited to hear that he wrote to you.
Obviously debateable tonight BC – you're being very brave getting on here with these two wild thangs though!!
As for me, I'm melting, melting… what a blog… what a blog…
The sandman's got me now ladies. I bid you all fond adieu and will catch y'all somewhere down the road. Thanks for the laughs tonight!!
No, enchanted, thank you for the laughs. Good Night and Take Care.
bluecrewgirl – I see most of those kids here and there. They are now in 3rd grade. However, last year's class,whom I see a lot more, will enjoy seeing it as well. Overall, they became bigger fans of the Dodgers and Andre (Dodgereric too) because it was a year-long dose of Dodger blue. The group who did the birthday party for Andre were fairly new to the Dodger blue at the time. Last year's class did a party too. We just wrote on his blog instead, and then that group did the song for Andre. I will frame it and find some way to display it. The picture of him is actually signed to my class, and the letter is addressed to me. Very cool indeed.
I know it might be late but happy bday Furcal and May we should've had a game tonight.
So much for getting a SP, unless it just falls into the Dodgers lap and is cheap. The article speculates that Ned is going to hope that Billz and Kersh develop into an ace status. Well, "developing" and "already there" are two different things IMO.
I think Kershaw is going to be great and Bills has a lot of talent, but he needs to work on the mental part of the game. He gets rattled too easily. I remember the previous season in the national media postgame interviews during the playoffs with the Cubs, he was really nervous and sweating like crazy. I think if he can learn to get in that mental zone, he has the potential to be a great pitcher.
I have no doubts they are going to be a crucial part of our rotation. Billz needs to come back with a new mindset and healthy as well. Remember during the off-season, he broke his leg on the ice.
Yes, I remember that. I heard he live is AZ now, but I am sure visits his family in the offseason in Ohio. I am still so bummed they are out of it. I really thought they were going to make it to the World Series this year. I still have high hopes for this team. Goodnight, Nelly. Take care and talk to you soon.
Yea – it is kind of a bummer we didn't get further this time. I think they learned some last year, they learned even more this year, and they will use all that they have learned to take with them into the 2010 season. Good Night Bluecrewgirl. Have a great day and talk to you later 🙂
Wow Martin was drafted by the Expos and it make you think what the Expos team would be like.
I guess not many people drafted from here Edouard Montpetit HS (Montreal, QC)"
Good Morning ITDland ~ Can't wait to see what happens today……..let the drinking begin!!!!
Definite keepers:
Matt, Andre, Kershaw, Brox, Kuo – would not include these in any trade for anybody.
Secondary keepers:
Loney, Billz, Furcal – would trade only for acknowledged first rate starting pitcher, plus reasonable replacement for Loney, Furcal. I can envision a package deal for Josh Johnson that might make this trade worthwhile. Would not give these up for a one-year rental.
Would love to trade:
Martin, Manny, Sherrill, Pierre, Stultz, Elbert.
Would love to re-sign:
Hudson, Weaver, Belliard (pinch-hitter and reserve).
Morning, bear….if I had to annoy you and and change your list a bit, I'd offer the following:
I'd keep Loney (he's come up big both post seasons, don't really care about his HRs at this point)…would be more hesitant to dump Martin (but I'm real close), and I'd ride the Manny/Sherrill train for another year. As for your re-signs, I'd throw all those fish back…OK, maybe Belliard. I'd resign Wolf…but only if he's 5th on the starting pitcher depth chart. And I'd fire Honeycutt yesterday, same time as Jamie! Oh, did I mention I'd fire Honeycutt? And one more thing. I'd fire Honeycutt. Statistics aside, how many of the young arms (Kershaw, Bills, Broxton, McDonald, Troncoso, Bellisario) really improved as the season progressed? And how many regressed?
Kahli ~ I take it you would FIRE HONEYCUTT! lol
Where oh where is the National Enquirer now that so many inquiring fans need to know the in depth dirt on our ownership Smut Couple? With all the iphone and cell phone capabilities, is there no-one who has captured Jamie in her "flagrante delicto" – admittedly a voice over video would be best, but even some doctored up still photos could capture some excitement for the public at large. Come on, how long is it going to take for some enterprising paparazzo to step forward with the real skinny? According to Simers, we can't depend on Josh or the standard Dodger public relations people to tell all. Must we at ITD nominate our own investigator to bare all?
I'm not being judgmental here at all. What's more appropriate for an organization that lets Manny be Manny to have an ownership that lets Jamie be Jamie.
Here you go Messagebear!!! You ask and you shall receive………………
It wasn't the body guard. He "was" the Director of Protocol for the Dodgers.
Thanks, nelly – that's a start. With the Pillsbury connection, maybe he's rich enough to help buy the team.
I see that by contrast Frank is having lunch with a guy. Not to make anything special of it, but I always thought that Frank was the kind of guy who liked to stick close to the locker room. Maybe it's just Frank being Frank, a la Barney Frank, who also happens to be close to Boston.
Protocol made me do it!!!
Yea – wouldn't you think Dodger protocol would involve not having an affair with one of the owners? Just a thought…………………..
I am sure there is alot more to this story than just Jamie. I am sure there is some seedy information on Frank as well.
This begs the question…
If this Fuller guy is in on the Pillsbury fortune, why in hell was he working for the Dodgers as the Protocol Director? Why was he working at all??
As for Jamie, I understand the attraction – maybe he offered to show her his Poppin Fresh doughboy. I know his pick-up line was, "Wanna see my buns?"
Oh there's gotta be a song in there somewhere…
LOL, Enchanted. Well he does have a lot of dough and, I'm sure he always rises to the occasion.
What mature ownership we have. I guess they weren't Hollywood-proof after all. Slimy and disgusting………but a future feast for all ambulance chasers.
Oh,enchanted – I would say I am surprised by your comments, but I would be lying, now wouldn't I?
Nellyjune ~ I think Enchanted is a bad influence on me!
LMAO!!!!!!!! It has been reported that in Franks termination letter to Jamie that she was non responsive………I'm guessing Frank just grew tired of her poking him in the belly and laughing hysterically……
non-responsive! That's is funny. The best thing that can happen here is that this Couple gets laughed out of town, and we're starting it right here at ITD. Simers is doing it at LA Times. We need Plaschke to join in. Get Leno going. Get it going at all the Hollywood parties. The laughingstock of L.A. Get them to sell the team and move back to Boston. F Frank, F Jamie (oh, that might strike too close to the truth) – Fire all the current yokels in the front office who're on Frank's side. Bring the house of cards down, and get some real baseball people in charge.
Yeah let's trade Furcal but it won't happen. We do have replacement for Furcal and Loney. Gordon and if Lambo and how is he's defense at 1st base I know he's playing a lot of OF and I wonder if he will play 1st base I know they young but are they ready?
Are do something with Manny and try to voided his contract and have Lambo in LF and leave Loney where he at.
I think is rediciously firing Honeycutt and only firing him if you think we can get Dave Duncan..
What the deal trading Sherrill? I think Sherrill should be back we can't throw him on a bus. I would added Wade to that list Kahil yeah he wasn't good this year but everyone seem to go through a sophomore slump and I know Wade would bounce back.
I saw that earlier, Dodger4life. Big deal, huh? I think he is a jerk!
Yeah…. I'm not a big fan either.
If Jamie gains control of the Dodgers, will she refer to our colors as Pillsbury Blue and Wedding Gown White??? ( Okay that one left bad taste. ) Is it just me or does that picture of Frank in a hotel restaraunt…. in a pink dress shirt…. having brunch with some dude ( not that there is anything wrong with that )…. scream GO JAMIE!!!!
lol Vlad being Vlad
Steve Phillips was let go as an ESPN analyst……sex scandal with an ESPN employee.
Haven't they figured out there is always somebody watching and/or there is somebody always willing to tattle? Everything you needed to know, you learned in Kindergarten. Geez!!!!
I know, NellyJune. Sex scandals must be contageous, like the swine flu. lol
Some more thoughts on the future of the Dodgers, alot of which has been discussed on ITD.
Well, some So-Cal Dodger fans will rest better tonight knowing the Angels are done too 🙂
Sparkleplenty – It's going to be far from being private. This off-season is truly going to play out like a soap opera.
Most up-to-date news on the McCourts – seems that Jamie changed the lock on her office door and refuses to clean out her desk . . . yeah, let's keep it private – HA!!!
It figure Denny Hamlin win and I had him on my bench. Gosh I swear they need to move some of those B players to the C groups.
If Jamie is unwilling to give up her office, that is a good sign – it shows for the upcoming court action that she does not accept being "fired" because she maintains being half owner of the team. I would suggest that she also call for invalidating any actions made by the team without her concurrence like extending Ned's contract. Tying up the bank accounts should come next, and that will put MLB on notice that things will not go on as usual.
Do I want Jamie as the owner? Not any more than I want Frank as one. My hope is that they are FORCED to sell, and we can get rid of this show alltogether.
And we want EITHER of these children owning/running the storied Los Angeles Dodgers? Let them buy a stake in Playboy so they can hang out with Hugh and all the other bizarros. Honestly, this thing has been going on publicly, for what, a week? And I'm already sick to death of it. Can we get some mature ownership in here? Someone who can keep his/her zippers zipped and their bloomers unbloomed???!?!?!?!?!?? Wait…hold on….um, um……..P U K E !!!! Sorry about that. There, I'm feeling a bit better now.
Eh, Protocol sucks!
Hey gang – I've got the inside skinny on what really happened…
I was all a big misunderstanding. Jamie kept trying to do things through the proper channels, and Frank got impatient and said, "Screw the protocol."
The rest as they say, is history…
Shad – do me a favor and keep Denny on your bench. He does better when you don't race him (jk) – LOL!!!
I see this hot stove season is going to bring new meaning to the word "hot".
If Jamie doesn't make her move soon, Frank, Ned, and Torre are going to lock up Mattingly as the next manager.
Mattingly is an A-hole – just ask his ex-wife.
This sounds like something one of us would have written.
I agree with the article. Ned stinks!
"Until the day McCourt realizes that Colletti isn?t the right man to assemble a championship team, Dodger fans should expect to feel blue for many seasons to come." Taking this quote from the article, I can only add:
Considering that Frank can't even manage "protocol", why would you expect him to manage something that requires a certain amount of baseball knowledge.
The Dodgers had a great season but it wasn't in the cards this year. In a way it was sort of like the Yankees in 2008 with the growing pains of Hughes, Joba, Kennedy, etc. Good luck for next year.
Enchanted, sorry for deserting you the other night. You do have to admit things were getting a bit weird, even for you. Besides, it was either you or a hot bowl of wor wonton soup. You might say it was a matter of protocol, I mean, priorities.
… and I admit to nothing.
I have a feeling the term protocol will be used frequently in the next few months. lol
Have no fear. The reports were false. According to Buster Olney, Ned Colletti was not signed to an extension.
Leave it to Bristol to sing someone's praises for a season, and forget their name less than a week later.
I think we should ask Josh if it would be okay for some of our ITD family (Enchanted, Dodgereric, Messagebear, lbirken, etc.) to post new threads until he has something to tell us. Wouldn't that be fun?!
How could I forget……North would be awesome!
Hey everyone. Well, even if Andre might have been understandably chafed by the way he's been treated by the Dodgers in the past prior to this season, at least we know next season his lips will be soft as a baby's behind, lol.
Since Jamie is half-owner, I would like to hear her observations and feelings about this past season by our Dodgers. We've heard a great deal from Ned and Frank and practically daily from Torre, so why not get her perspective? Fans, including those here on ITD, might like to hear what her plans and feelings are concerning the team, especially if she may try to land the ownership of the team herself. I think the aforementioned trio have made their views known, and I've continually judged them to be anything from incompetent to being a**holes, to being idiots. Fans deserve to hear from Jamie. If Josh can't or won't make that happen for this forum, then let's us ITD fans invite her to post her views on this forum.
Bluecrewgirl ~ awesome article about Andre.
I've come to the conclusion that a day with out Dodger Baseball…….Well it is just another darn day……How long till spring training??????
Shad – do me a favor and keep Denny on your bench. He does better when you don't race him (jk) – LOL!!!
I see this hot stove season is going to bring new meaning to the word "hot".
By nellyjune on October 26, 2009 11:20 AM
Well I did have one more start on him but dang which I had that start last week. I had Newman and Stewart and they goes 7 and 9 and also had Montoya going 3rd.
Wow!!!! Great article bluecrewgirl. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Shad – with those three you should've still had a pretty good day without Denny. Once again, thanks for not racing him. You did Denny Hamlin fans proud – LOL!!!!(jk)
messagebear – you bring up a very good point. We don't ever hear what Jamie thinks, do we?
Here are some more details in the ongoing saga……..L.A.'s McCourtin Power Couple………….
Have a good night everyone………………….and God Bless.
Two people that love each other don't play power games behind each other's back. That's why I have a hard time believing business decisions led to divorce. They may simply have been a repercussion to the um, shall we say, more "likely" events. Like I said earlier this afternoon….BARF! Or was it VOMIT?
Definitely Kahli!!!!
Happy 22th bday Bynum and time for the Lakers to pulling another championship room again.
Yeah thanks to Jeff Gordon but getting tired of not socring over 300+ pts and that C groups doesn't help either.
The best that I can determine, Jamie in her tenure as CEO has frequently been critical of the management of the team – something that has never been aired in public. People who agreed or sided with her have been dismissed over the course of this past season. In fact, the firing was apparently done while she was on a trip outside of the country. It sounds to me like she would be a worthy member of ITD, and, once her legal claims are filed with the court, I plan to contact her attorney and invite her to address the fans via this forum concerning her feelings about the management of the Dodgers. I think it would be interesting, revealing, and RIGHT that she have her say about how this franchise has been run. Josh and all the management lackeys are a bunch of self-serving scumbags when it comes to really getting the inside story of how this valued franchise has been mismanaged. I plan to solicit her knowledge and expose the management scams to the fans, and F YOU to Frank, Ned, Joe and anyone complicit with their SPIN.
room = *run
messagebear, Jamie will have to take a screen name. As Aesthetics Coordinator, I'll get right on that. I urge we also file to declassify both Jamie's and Frank's high school discipline records, specifically cutting or other forms of self mutilation. We could be dealing with a couple "Emos" here. In other news, I'll be rooting for the Yanks because a) Victorino gives me gas and b) it might wake up a very sleepy Joe Torre.
Yeah nice rings wish we had a WS rings this year.
In order to contend for the WS ring, you have to have a management that is somewhat proactive to filling their needs properly in the off-season. Whenever this management has tried to do that in the past years, they have totally failed by bringing in guys like Schmidt, Tomko, Andruw, etc. – too many stiffs to name, but they took up all the available dollars. You can consider the obsession with Manny however you like, but the need for the beginning of last season was for a front line starting pitcher, and how many stiffs did we sign up for that assignment. Covering your a** like Colletti did in mid-season does not get the job done. That's why he should have been OUT on his a** a long time ago, or even just a week ago after the season ended the way it did and not extended so we can look forward to more of the same. Extending his contract only shows that he's doing what Frank wants him to do, and that's why I always blame Frank for not doing what's right for the team.
Sell the team, Frank!!!
If anyone had hopes that the McCourts would take the high road, forget it.
I see, Dodgereric…..Jamie and the Fuller Brush Man! lol
And, poor Kahli……this soap opera is far from over…..BARF, BARF!!!
Thanks for the article, eric.
Jamie, next time Frank shows up unannounced, shoot him right between the eyes. That'll take care of everything, and think how much better you'll feel.
After I thought about my comment, I wanted to make sure that all of you did not take me literally. I could just see the next evolvement taking Frank and Jamie's situation to the Nancy Grace Show, so my previous post was a grossly exagerated satirical comment. Apologies to those with greater sensitivity than mine happens to be at times.
Messagebear – Unless there are some first time readers out there (which is possible), most of us know you well enough that we know your personality and didn't think twice about the comment.
Dodgereric – thanks for sharing the article.
Great posts Kahli and Messagebear!!
Messagebear ~ 🙂
Just saw the story in LA Times that Jamie filed for divorce this afternoon – also asked the court to reinstate her as the CEO of the Dodgers. Act I to follow whenever the court sets the date for the next move.
"As The Dodgers Turn" – stay tuned for the next pitiful, but hilarious episode.
In the next episode watch for Frank grinding his teeth, Ned twisting his moustache, and Joe sleeping on the beach.
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Devil's advocate says hello.
If Jamie DID cheat on Frank with an employee of the Dodgers, this would constitute Adultery. I can't see why the court would be forced by her to reinstate her as CEO of the Dodgers if she excercised poor judgement and embarassed the company.
Frank IS the owner, as far as the MLB is concerned, his name is on the line. If Jamie has a problem, she should have thought that out ahead of time, though I'm sure neither was planning a divorce.
Same problem with failing to assert yourself as a legally equal owner is the reason Axl Rose can assemble 4 guys from a Manhattan subway and still legally call them "Guns N Roses", while Slash, Izzy and Duff are left with parting gifts.
I'm not taking sides as of yet, though. It's been said that the truth is like a triangle. There's two sides to every story, and the truth is somewhere above and between the two. Glad I'm not the one who has to decide where that point is.
But I will say that when it was revealed that the guy she fooled around with was a part heir to the Pillsbury fortune, my girlfriend will attest that my first words after that were: "Da-da?"
(I'm refering to this article, by the way: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-mccourts28-2009oct28,0,3490602.story )
Bear, glad to see you calm down. This is a messy story that unfortunately will be with us a long time. Sorry to see things get so nasty but if it were not for the Dodger connection this little squabble wouldn't interest anyone. We should not be too surprised at how public this thing has become considering the people involved; two wannabee celebrities who privately may be smart, intelligent people but come off publically as somewhat shallow and more concerned about image than substance. As you all have figured out, there is a lot more to this story and for me it is a sorry day when TMZ is part of the story.
Well, lbirken, that comment was well worth the two cents. It was very well said.
nelly, I'd like to steal from the old Carol Burnett show, so with your permission, I'd like to replace "As The Dodgers Turn," with "As The Stomach Turns." In the first episode, two image-conscious, East Coast carpetbaggers come West, young man, looking for El Dorado and parking lots paved with gold—only to recoil in horror as they survey a baseball landscape littered with the likes of Dan Evans and Jim Tracy. Fueled by their abysmal failure to purchase the Red Sox, Angels, and even the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Big Frank finds a willing business parter in Rupert Murdoch, who, after selling ownership of the long-storied Los Angeles Dodgers franchise to the soon-to-be "Power Couple of the Year," was heard to mutter, "Take THAT L.A.!!!" But fear not. In desperation to protect the hallowed name of "Dodgers," the citizenry rises up, and the ITD "irritant" is born–visionaries and voices of reason all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks, Nelly. And thanks to Kahli, Eric, NSB, Bear, Enchanted and everyone else for trying to make us all laugh about a story that in reality is not funny at all. Keep it up.
In her divorce filing I see where Jamie is asking for $321,000/mo. if she's reinstated in her CEO position or $488,000/mo. if she is not. I wonder if she's arbitration eligible.
"Among the revelations is the declaration that Frank and Jamie McCourt's net worth is $1.2 billion, $400 million of that independent of the Dodgers. Not exactly the cash-poor owners people thought."
"I don't think it's too soon to state that regardless how this divorce plays out, Frank and Jamie McCourt have torched themselves in the Los Angeles community. From player payroll to Dodger Stadium ticket and amenities pricing, the explicit acknowledgment of where so much of their money goes (the fabulous homes…the lush gardens, the pools, the spas…private jets…the grandest hotels), their unrepentant selfishness and greed, is going to bring exponentially more skepticism to any future Dodger-related decision they make."
Kahli, the net worth information stunned me. I still would not be surprised to learn much of this is on paper but then again, they were smart enough to purchase the Dodgers with little or none of their own money on the line. Any, have a great evening everyone. Keep the faith.
If that net worth information is accurate, there's all the more reason to fault Selig for allowing the McCourts to buy the franchise with so much debt. I don't believe it to be accurate. That's probably the estimate of the total worth of their assets, which would put the value of the Dodgers at around $800 million, which roughly coincides with the value put on the franchise by Forbes magazine. We'll probably see in the court documents the breakdown of the assets and how much debt there is against them – that is unless they settle the financial aspects between themselves privately and get the court to keep that information out of public purview.