The Big Blue Wrecking Crew

Finally!!! No more lesser sports to occupy my time. Now give me Vin and ill be a happy camper

Amen to that! For some reason, despite the relatively lackluster offseason, I have really been missing baseball. I think its because the hope of new ownership is upon us and being the Die-Hard Dodger fan that I am, I feel like new ownership is going to make some moves this year at some point to try and make a run in 2012.

I just hope that this motley crew of vets that Ned has cobbled together can stay in contention long enough for maybe a more savvy GM to be able to make some deals to help the Dodgers.

In any event, I am very happy that Spring Training is on and Dodger baseball will soon be upon us!

Go Dodgers!

Might as well start the annual build up of one NRI who will make the roster.   I have seen Jamey Wright get a push and I would like to think that Josh Fields finally gets it and pushes Urine to the bench or the DFA list, but knowing Ned and his need to put his stamp on this team, it will be John Grabow, no matter how awful he will likely be.  

I actually would love to see Urine (LOL) hit well out of the box and then maybe we can unload him to some desperate team looking for a 3B or utility player somewhere down the line.

Of course knowing Ned's luck, he will continue sucking and the Dodgers will be stuck with him.

I think 3B is going to continue to be an issue for the Dodgers this season. That's a position that a new GM would hopefully be targeting in a trade.

Is anyone really happy with Ned's offseason?  He seemed overly anxious to sign his usual collection of used-to-be decent players who are now past their prime.  Harang had good numbers may years ago with Cincy and last year thanks to Petco.  Shouldn't they rename Petco?  Maybe a major airline should get naming rights, since it's big enough to land a 747.

SamAdams said:

Is anyone really happy with Ned's offseason?  He seemed overly anxious to sign his usual collection of used-to-be decent players who are now past their prime.  Harang had good numbers may years ago with Cincy and last year thanks to Petco.  Shouldn't they rename Petco?  Maybe a major airline should get naming rights, since it's big enough to land a 747.

Capuano had a couple of decent seasons before injuries hit him, and LaGuardia Field, home of the Mets influenced his stats.  Where does this leave Eovaldi, who I feel has more potential than Cap and 'rang.

Todd Coffey?  Why?  I was pretty happy with our pen makeup especially with Tolleson looking like he may be ready for promotion.  Now, he and Lindblom  will be injury insurance.

Typical Ned Modus Operandi.  Spend millions on washed up vets and let the kids "season" some more in the minors.

Other than Ned and Frank, no.  The only good thing that comes from Ned's need to sign the crappy and old is that they will likely get hurt before we are too deep into the season and we get to see the players who will be the Dodgers' future.   Well, there is one other good thing, if Donny can somehow keep this team around .500 for the whole season, he will continue to show that he is one of Ned's actual good moves.   Hell, if Donny can get 82-85 wins out of this group of stiffs, he should get MOY hands down.  

Has it really been 8 years since Phil passed?  Wow, I feel old.

BluePastorKyle said:

Has it really been 8 years since Phil passed?  Wow, I feel old.

I get to take in 3 ST games - March 16 and 17, and April 1 ( the 4/1 game is a gift from our old pal dugoutduty, who offered me the tix for free!).  

A .500 season is likely, but come May 1, we're all gonna be so excited to be rid of McDork and hopefully loving all over the new ownership group.  

Baseball is back!  Woot!

Actually, I think it was late '04, so only 7. Eight this year. Time calls far too quickly, save for Christmas Eve and the day before vacation.

Breathe in the fresh air of Spring Training...

Ahhhh, the smell of Spring Training!!!  No trip to Arizona for me this year as I have a future Dodger fan due to hit like a hurricane in about 3 weeks.

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

And... just saw Mattingly is "going into camp thinking Javy is the closer."  Of course he is.  But Kenley is gonna give Javy a run, me thinks.  I love Javy and how he totally stepped up last year, but I think they should be reversed in most games.  The only thing I like about Kenley not being the closer is that he can be inserted in the most critical times needed - not just the 9th. 

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

SamAdams said:

Is anyone really happy with Ned's offseason?  He seemed overly anxious to sign his usual collection of used-to-be decent players who are now past their prime.  .

I think Ned would have signed me if I agreed to take a back loaded contract and I stunk as a player when I last picked up a glove 30 years ago.

beefchopper said:

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

So would I, but I fear that New GM Logan White would dole out 6/96 to his first ever draft pick which would scare the crap out of me.

beefchopper said:

SamAdams said:

Is anyone really happy with Ned's offseason?  He seemed overly anxious to sign his usual collection of used-to-be decent players who are now past their prime.  .

I think Ned would have signed me if I agreed to take a back loaded contract and I stunk as a player when I last picked up a glove 30 years ago.

I heard Steve Yeager was back in camp and for a second I actually considered him a quality replacement for Matt Treanor.

Pretty classy:

I read the article where Mattingly talked about Rivera like he was a shoe on to be the starting left fielder.  I have major problem with that..it needs to be an open competition between him and Sands otherwise we are just wasting another year with no upside.  We saw the best of Rivera last year and that was only Major League average while Sands upside is dramatically higher but we can't reap the benefits of that from the Albuquerque.

saeldway said:

beefchopper said:

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

So would I, but I fear that New GM Logan White would dole out 6/96 to his first ever draft pick which would scare the crap out of me.

You meant new Dodger GM Kim Ng?

It's finally here! The season (at least the first part of it, IMO) should be pretty much like last year. The exciting part is HOPEFULLY and FINALLY we will get an ownership group that puts the personnel and fans first (along with fixing up our baseball cathedral).

beefchopper said:

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

Ditto.  That was gonna be my answer.  Great problem to have.

True2DaBlue said:

saeldway said:

beefchopper said:

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

So would I, but I fear that New GM Logan White would dole out 6/96 to his first ever draft pick which would scare the crap out of me.

You meant new Dodger GM Kim Ng?

While Kim Ng can be an important part of the Dodger organization going forward, I have to agree with Saeldway, that Logan White would be our best option to lead the charge as Blue GM.  His talent evaluation skill-set is among the very best in the game.  Under White's leadership, we'd likely see new life breathed into the now shuttered foreign academy program that was a staple of the Dodger teams of old.  Building a strong organization from within guarantees a level of year-to-year consistency that has long been absent from our beloved Dodgers.  Big FA signings aren't supposed to be the way to build a team from the ground up, but merely a way to supplement an already strong roster...!  

MATT KEMP ON DRUGS...!  

Excited, but a little depressed. This will be my second season in a row that I'll be away from home and I don't anticipate being able to catch very many games, if any, from South Korea. Hoping for an awesome new ownership group and the Dodgers to start winning some games.

Met MLB.tv is awesome for watching games over the net live or taped.  When I was in Europe and when I was in the desert i watched games often.

ItTakesFaith said:

True2DaBlue said:

saeldway said:

beefchopper said:

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

So would I, but I fear that New GM Logan White would dole out 6/96 to his first ever draft pick which would scare the crap out of me.

You meant new Dodger GM Kim Ng?

While Kim Ng can be an important part of the Dodger organization going forward, I have to agree with Saeldway, that Logan White would be our best option to lead the charge as Blue GM.  His talent evaluation skill-set is among the very best in the game.  Under White's leadership, we'd likely see new life breathed into the now shuttered foreign academy program that was a staple of the Dodger teams of old.  Building a strong organization from within guarantees a level of year-to-year consistency that has long been absent from our beloved Dodgers.  Big FA signings aren't supposed to be the way to build a team from the ground up, but merely a way to supplement an already strong roster...!  

"The future's so bright, I gotta wear shades....!"  

Don't get me wrong, I think we have a gem in Logan White and would be very disappointed if he ever left our Blue. I just think Kim Ng would be the better choice, given her previous experience and knowledge of the job it entails. Wouldn't it be something if IF either one (Ng or White if they became the next Dodger GM) hire back Dan Evans to be an assistant GM/ higher type FO position role with the team?

loneymiller said:

Met MLB.tv is awesome for watching games over the net live or taped.  When I was in Europe and when I was in the desert i watched games often.

Yeah, I agree. MLB TV is a great way for out of market fans to watch their teams play.

As long as you have a good internet connection and decent laptop or desktop, the games come in great.

I just don't subscribe because its pointless since being in market I get all the games televised, but I thought the product was solid when I was subscribed to it.

True2DaBlue said:

ItTakesFaith said:

True2DaBlue said:

saeldway said:

beefchopper said:

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

So would I, but I fear that New GM Logan White would dole out 6/96 to his first ever draft pick which would scare the crap out of me.

You meant new Dodger GM Kim Ng?

While Kim Ng can be an important part of the Dodger organization going forward, I have to agree with Saeldway, that Logan White would be our best option to lead the charge as Blue GM.  His talent evaluation skill-set is among the very best in the game.  Under White's leadership, we'd likely see new life breathed into the now shuttered foreign academy program that was a staple of the Dodger teams of old.  Building a strong organization from within guarantees a level of year-to-year consistency that has long been absent from our beloved Dodgers.  Big FA signings aren't supposed to be the way to build a team from the ground up, but merely a way to supplement an already strong roster...!  

"The future's so bright, I gotta wear shades....!"  

Don't get me wrong, I think we have a gem in Logan White and would be very disappointed if he ever left our Blue. I just think Kim Ng would be the better choice, given her previous experience and knowledge of the job it entails. Wouldn't it be something if IF either one (Ng or White if they became the next Dodger GM) hire back Dan Evans to be an assistant GM/ higher type FO position role with the team?

Too bad 'ol pink shirt never got a chance after doing a very decent job before Slimy McCockroach came aboard. He deserved better than what he got.

Who knows though. If the team is sold to someone with outside influences, they just may decide to clean house anyway and none of these talented people will get their chance. Doubtful, but one never knows.

I tend to think that when Magic and his group take over - how's that for confidence? - that there will be some firings, but given that this will happen during the season, I can see Kasten taking the reins for the foreseeable future and then hiring someone after the season is over.   I still think that Andrew Friedman is the odds-on choice for the job if he is willing to leave Tampa.   

loneymiller said:

Met MLB.tv is awesome for watching games over the net live or taped.  When I was in Europe and when I was in the desert i watched games often.

Yeah, I agree. MLB TV is a great way for out of market fans to watch their teams play.

As long as you have a good internet connection and decent laptop or desktop, the games come in great.

I just don't subscribe because its pointless since being in market I get all the games televised, but I thought the product was solid when I was subscribed to it.

Definitely!  I decided to pass on MLB Extra Innings simply because I can watch the games on my computer and while I am still at the beck and call of the Giants when we play them, simulcasting the radio over Krukow and Kuip is not bad and I just have to avert my eyes whenever Amy G comes on the screen - damn, she is really hard on the eyes and ears.   I hope it is true she is married to the producer of the Giant games because if she got that gig for other reasons, that would be terrifying. 

We used MLB/ei when we lived in Philly so I could get my Dodger games.  Now, we have here in LA so toes can watch her Phillies.

Bringing back another tradition, your 2012 Dodger Spring Training Pic of the Day:

grabarkewitz said:

True2DaBlue said:

ItTakesFaith said:

True2DaBlue said:

saeldway said:

beefchopper said:

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

So would I, but I fear that New GM Logan White would dole out 6/96 to his first ever draft pick which would scare the crap out of me.

You meant new Dodger GM Kim Ng?

While Kim Ng can be an important part of the Dodger organization going forward, I have to agree with Saeldway, that Logan White would be our best option to lead the charge as Blue GM.  His talent evaluation skill-set is among the very best in the game.  Under White's leadership, we'd likely see new life breathed into the now shuttered foreign academy program that was a staple of the Dodger teams of old.  Building a strong organization from within guarantees a level of year-to-year consistency that has long been absent from our beloved Dodgers.  Big FA signings aren't supposed to be the way to build a team from the ground up, but merely a way to supplement an already strong roster...!  

"The future's so bright, I gotta wear shades....!"  

Don't get me wrong, I think we have a gem in Logan White and would be very disappointed if he ever left our Blue. I just think Kim Ng would be the better choice, given her previous experience and knowledge of the job it entails. Wouldn't it be something if IF either one (Ng or White if they became the next Dodger GM) hire back Dan Evans to be an assistant GM/ higher type FO position role with the team?

Too bad 'ol pink shirt never got a chance after doing a very decent job before Slimy McCockroach came aboard. He deserved better than what he got.

Who knows though. If the team is sold to someone with outside influences, they just may decide to clean house anyway and none of these talented people will get their chance. Doubtful, but one never knows.

I tend to think that when Magic and his group take over - how's that for confidence? - that there will be some firings, but given that this will happen during the season, I can see Kasten taking the reins for the foreseeable future and then hiring someone after the season is over.   I still think that Andrew Friedman is the odds-on choice for the job if he is willing to leave Tampa.   

Now, I think the world of Logan White, but he has been passed over several times and one has to wonder if he even wants the grief of being a GM.  Let's face it, your job is being reviewed on a daily basis, while the scouting director gets some latitude in his job because prospects take time to develop.   As for Kim Ng, I think she will make a great GM, but I see her as the back up choice if a young guy like Friedman turns down the Dodgers.  Aside from the trade deadline, this team will likely be patient and wait for the next off-season to make a huge splash.  

grabarkewitz said:

loneymiller said:

Met MLB.tv is awesome for watching games over the net live or taped.  When I was in Europe and when I was in the desert i watched games often.

Yeah, I agree. MLB TV is a great way for out of market fans to watch their teams play.

As long as you have a good internet connection and decent laptop or desktop, the games come in great.

I just don't subscribe because its pointless since being in market I get all the games televised, but I thought the product was solid when I was subscribed to it.

Definitely!  I decided to pass on MLB Extra Innings simply because I can watch the games on my computer and while I am still at the beck and call of the Giants when we play them, simulcasting the radio over Krukow and Kuip is not bad and I just have to avert my eyes whenever Amy G comes on the screen - damn, she is really hard on the eyes and ears.   I hope it is true she is married to the producer of the Giant games because if she got that gig for other reasons, that would be terrifying. 

I don't think my internet connection is fast enough to reliably stream.  Does anyone know the minimum download speed required?  My ISP delivers only about 3Mbps, and I don't have any reliable alternatives in my neighborhood.

SamAdams said:

grabarkewitz said:

True2DaBlue said:

ItTakesFaith said:

True2DaBlue said:

saeldway said:

beefchopper said:

saeldway said:

BluePastorKyle said:

saeldway said:

To me, this entire season comes down to if Billz breaks the mental block and becomes a second Ace on the team.  It's Chad Billingsley, so I'm not holding my breath.  But if you have his talent backing up Kershaw in this weak division, they've got a shot.  You've got to believe that reinforcements are coming July 31st.  I think this is a bigger year to Billz than it is for either Ethier or Loney.

Competition and a kick in the arse are good for ballplayers.  I think 2012 is equally critical for all 3 players.  If all 3 break out, they're all looking at lucrative long-term deals with plenty of suitors at their positions when one looks at the FA field for 2013.  This is a very good scenario for the 2012 Dodgers, as we'll find out more about the "intestinal fortitude" (love that phrase) of all 3 guys.  Nothing tests that like genuine pressure.  

If I were forced to choose just one of the 3 that I thought would have a great season, I'd have to go with an injury-free Ethier.  He's shown the ability to rise to the occasion.  Loney and Billz, sadly, have not shown the consistency to do so.  But they're relatively young, so here's hoping they grow up a bit.

Here's an intriguing question.  Say Loney has a Beltre type breakout season.  Let's just say he does what he showed promise of in 2007, hits .330, has 28 homers, OPS's .920.  Do you try and sign him to an extension that would probably reflect 2012 numbers, or hope that's its a fluke, pass, and hope you got the best out of Loney.  Alternate reality of course.

I'd sure love to be faced with that decision...

So would I, but I fear that New GM Logan White would dole out 6/96 to his first ever draft pick which would scare the crap out of me.

You meant new Dodger GM Kim Ng?

While Kim Ng can be an important part of the Dodger organization going forward, I have to agree with Saeldway, that Logan White would be our best option to lead the charge as Blue GM.  His talent evaluation skill-set is among the very best in the game.  Under White's leadership, we'd likely see new life breathed into the now shuttered foreign academy program that was a staple of the Dodger teams of old.  Building a strong organization from within guarantees a level of year-to-year consistency that has long been absent from our beloved Dodgers.  Big FA signings aren't supposed to be the way to build a team from the ground up, but merely a way to supplement an already strong roster...!  

"The future's so bright, I gotta wear shades....!"  

Don't get me wrong, I think we have a gem in Logan White and would be very disappointed if he ever left our Blue. I just think Kim Ng would be the better choice, given her previous experience and knowledge of the job it entails. Wouldn't it be something if IF either one (Ng or White if they became the next Dodger GM) hire back Dan Evans to be an assistant GM/ higher type FO position role with the team?

Too bad 'ol pink shirt never got a chance after doing a very decent job before Slimy McCockroach came aboard. He deserved better than what he got.

Who knows though. If the team is sold to someone with outside influences, they just may decide to clean house anyway and none of these talented people will get their chance. Doubtful, but one never knows.

I tend to think that when Magic and his group take over - how's that for confidence? - that there will be some firings, but given that this will happen during the season, I can see Kasten taking the reins for the foreseeable future and then hiring someone after the season is over.   I still think that Andrew Friedman is the odds-on choice for the job if he is willing to leave Tampa.   

Now, I think the world of Logan White, but he has been passed over several times and one has to wonder if he even wants the grief of being a GM.  Let's face it, your job is being reviewed on a daily basis, while the scouting director gets some latitude in his job because prospects take time to develop.   As for Kim Ng, I think she will make a great GM, but I see her as the back up choice if a young guy like Friedman turns down the Dodgers.  Aside from the trade deadline, this team will likely be patient and wait for the next off-season to make a huge splash.  

grabarkewitz said:

loneymiller said:

Met MLB.tv is awesome for watching games over the net live or taped.  When I was in Europe and when I was in the desert i watched games often.

Yeah, I agree. MLB TV is a great way for out of market fans to watch their teams play.

As long as you have a good internet connection and decent laptop or desktop, the games come in great.

I just don't subscribe because its pointless since being in market I get all the games televised, but I thought the product was solid when I was subscribed to it.

Definitely!  I decided to pass on MLB Extra Innings simply because I can watch the games on my computer and while I am still at the beck and call of the Giants when we play them, simulcasting the radio over Krukow and Kuip is not bad and I just have to avert my eyes whenever Amy G comes on the screen - damn, she is really hard on the eyes and ears.   I hope it is true she is married to the producer of the Giant games because if she got that gig for other reasons, that would be terrifying. 

I don't think my internet connection is fast enough to reliably stream.  Does anyone know the minimum download speed required?  My ISP delivers only about 3Mbps, and I don't have any reliable alternatives in my neighborhood.

SamAdams, generally 2.5Mbit/s are recommended for movie streaming (live broadcasting is calculated in much the same way).  You should be fine... but not with much room to spare.

grabarkewitz said:

loneymiller said:

Met MLB.tv is awesome for watching games over the net live or taped.  When I was in Europe and when I was in the desert i watched games often.

Yeah, I agree. MLB TV is a great way for out of market fans to watch their teams play.

As long as you have a good internet connection and decent laptop or desktop, the games come in great.

I just don't subscribe because its pointless since being in market I get all the games televised, but I thought the product was solid when I was subscribed to it.

Definitely!  I decided to pass on MLB Extra Innings simply because I can watch the games on my computer and while I am still at the beck and call of the Giants when we play them, simulcasting the radio over Krukow and Kuip is not bad and I just have to avert my eyes whenever Amy G comes on the screen - damn, she is really hard on the eyes and ears.   I hope it is true she is married to the producer of the Giant games because if she got that gig for other reasons, that would be terrifying. 

LOL, I felt the same thing about her presence on Giant broadcasts; though it appears they have given her a "makeover" of sorts, to lessen the blow!  To make matter worse, her questions are epically bad.  

Good morning, boys and girls.  Here's your 2012 Dodger Spring Training Pic of the Day:

bigblaster said:

Good morning, boys and girls.  Here's your 2012 Dodger Spring Training Pic of the Day:

Looks like Erin's Brother is getting in his running, at least.  Someone should buy Lindblom a razor, the 5 o'clock shadow doesn't work for him.  

ItTakesFaith said:

grabarkewitz said:

loneymiller said:

Met MLB.tv is awesome for watching games over the net live or taped.  When I was in Europe and when I was in the desert i watched games often.

Yeah, I agree. MLB TV is a great way for out of market fans to watch their teams play.

As long as you have a good internet connection and decent laptop or desktop, the games come in great.

I just don't subscribe because its pointless since being in market I get all the games televised, but I thought the product was solid when I was subscribed to it.

Definitely!  I decided to pass on MLB Extra Innings simply because I can watch the games on my computer and while I am still at the beck and call of the Giants when we play them, simulcasting the radio over Krukow and Kuip is not bad and I just have to avert my eyes whenever Amy G comes on the screen - damn, she is really hard on the eyes and ears.   I hope it is true she is married to the producer of the Giant games because if she got that gig for other reasons, that would be terrifying. 

LOL, I felt the same thing about her presence on Giant broadcasts; though it appears they have given her a "makeover" of sorts, to lessen the blow!  To make matter worse, her questions are epically bad.  

Heck, after spending all of the Giant piggybank on retaining Tiny Tim, maybe that is all they could afford... They are already fearing the Dodgers of 2013... we just have to get there.  

Short of putting a bag over her head, nothing really helps.   She is just an abomination with her combination of moronic questions and face that would frighten small children.   I am almost tempted to ask them to put FP Santangelo in the stands asking questions.  Sure he is equally stupid, but there is the comedy value from his opinions and the hope he would fall down the stairs.  

Here's another reason why Nedcompoop is the worst GM in all of baseball.  He signed Capuano to a horrible back-loaded 2 year deal that will pay him $3M in year one and $6M in year two with a 1M buyout.  That's a horrible K, where Ned had to overpay in year 2 to keep the price down in year 1.  Still, you're paying out $10M+ for 2 years of a mediocre pitcher.  He's 33 and a soft-tossing lefty prone to HR - a commodity we already had.  That's a bad signing, but honestly, if Ned was up against a wall and had just watched McCourt take a machete to his 2012 budget, maybe that's understandable.  We only had Kershaw, Billz, and Lilly with Eovaldi potentially being a 5th SP, but it can be risky to count on a rookie.  I kind of understand the thinking, we needed a veteran SP.

The problem was that Nedcompoop then went out and signed a SECOND horrible deal, this one WORSE than the first.  For Aaron Harang, who is a few months from 34 and who had a decent year in the league's best pitching park, Colletti paid 2/12 again backloaded, where we'll be paying Harang $3M this year, 7-8 next year, and a $2M buyout in 2014.  Chances are, there's NO WAY we want Harang for $8M in his age 36 season, so really, we're paying him roughly $10M in 2013.  That's the same amount Kuroda will make this year with the Yankees.

For those that argue that Colletti is just hampered by financial constraints put in place by McCourt, this is a perfect example of how much of a moron he actually is.  First off, we could have likely signed Kuroda for LESS OVERALL than what we signed EITHER of Capuano/Harang.  Kuroda took 1 year 10M from the Yanks, a team he didn't want to play for previously.  Wouldn't he take a 1 year deal that paid him $7M this year with ~$4M deferred or plugged into an option for 2013?  I sure think so.  There's also no way that you can argue that Harang/Capuano would out-perform Kuroda/Eovaldi ... I just don't see it.

Finally, last point ... we all were aware, prior to this post, of these possibilities that I just discussed ... so what's the point?  My point for this post is that ROY OSWALT is still WITHOUT a home right now.  ST is starting, pitchers and catchers have reported in EVERY MLB camp and Oswalt has NOT signed a deal yet.  Oswalt is roughly the same age as Harang and a WAY more accomplished pitcher.  He had an injury-shortened season in 2011, but had a stellar 2010 and still pitched very well in the Philly bandbox over 140 IP in 2011.  If Roy REPEATED his 2011 disappointing season, I think he could STILL be worth more than Harang, who incidentally hasn't had an ERA+ above 100 for the last 4 years and actually he has a WORSE injury history than Oswalt.

Now, what's Oswalt doing!?  He's talking about WAITING until mid-season.  WOW.  What would it take to snatch this guy up right now?  $5M?  $6M?  Colletti couldn't be patient, he couldn't play the market, even with his constraints, and make the right plays that would make this team better.  He's just a damn moron and well all saw this coming, because this is EXACTLY what he did LAST YEAR.

Good lord, I hate Colletti.  Please fire this man asap.

Ryan Braun won the arbitration case and his 50-game suspension has been overturned.  MLBN speculates it was on a technicality.

bigblaster said:

Ryan Braun won the arbitration case and his 50-game suspension has been overturned.  MLBN speculates it was on a technicality.

It helps to be on the team that the commissioner loves.

SamAdams said:

bigblaster said:

Ryan Braun won the arbitration case and his 50-game suspension has been overturned.  MLBN speculates it was on a technicality.

It helps to be on the team that the commissioner loves.

What a travesty!

Another black eye on Selig. 

Your 2012 Dodger Spring Training Pic of the Day:

Just as an FYI, unless otherwise noted, all of the pics of the day are from Jon Soo Hoo.

bigblaster said:

Your 2012 Dodger Spring Training Pic of the Day:

Meep being chased by the proverbial coyote.

Gurnick reports Clayton Kershaw threw a 36-pitch bullpen session with no apparent problems with his back.

bigblaster said:

Your 2012 Dodger Spring Training Pic of the Day:

I'm so excited to see what a full year of Lopes can do to Meep's base stealing and bunting.  From what I remember, Lopes was a success with Kemp because he got rid of non-productive movements in the steal attempt.  If he can do the same with Meep you're looking at a guy with enough speed to break the season steals mark.  Now if they can just figure out how to teach him to bunt he'll be unstoppable.  So many times last year I remember cringing because Meep was just so bad in his bunting technique. 

Maybe Lopes can also teach him how to bunt. Or Maury Wills, he can always teach the kid how to bunt.