Coming together?
The Dodgers began the season with lofty expectations in a tough division, hopes and dreams thus far going unrealized with a 12-13 record. But there is reason for optimism, what with yesterday's 3-2 win over the Rockies completing a sweep over another NL West resident. And like Friday night's victory, extra innings were necessary to get the job done. The victorious table was set by Esteban Loaiza, who eschewed his often typical shakiness in favor of a solid two runs surrendered over five frames. His performance may not be enough to keep him in the rotation, but it dis his team a nice solid. A fourth inning, two out rally matched that pair of runs for the Blue, an effort that mirrored the resolve displayed by the home squad. One need look no further than the pen's continual success wriggling out of mess for an example of that heart. James Loney also found a chance to redeem himself after an overanxious swing led to an frame-killing DP. Next at bat, kid was cool as a bowl of Gazpacho, knocking a grounder into right field to move Raffy Furcal across the plate for a tenth inning box score beauty. Joe Torre has been preaching the importance of his team retaining confidence throughout their struggles. A weekend like the one just enjoyed goes a long way to help that mission.
Chin-lung Hu is a natural shortstop, but a shortage of blue hot corner keepers makes him the backup to Blake DeWitt. It's not an easy transition for a kid still looking to make his way in the bigs, but he thankfully has some guidance from the vet originally slated to play third for the Dodgers. But should Hu be unavailable to play there for whatever reason, Russell Martin could be next in line. And that works out great for the backstop, who'd rather play out of position than take the day off. All kidding aside, dude realllllly hates taking the day off.
Is Ned Colletti on the hot seat?
When it comes to mail, MLB.com's Ken Gurnick is like Cliff Clavin, except he actually knows what he's talking about.
Wonder who misrembers the facts with this here rumor...
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Brian,
Hotel info....none of the three is great. If your budget can manage it, try the Holiday Inn in Burbank. It is near I-5, close to shops, movie theatres--much nicer surroundings than the ones you mentioned.
Posted by: Chunkdog | April 28, 2008 at 10:36 AM
Clemens is a dirt bag. He should just fess up, once you start the web of lies it never stops.
Mindy McCready is all over the interwebs with her story... it wouldn't surprise me.
Posted by: benzo jones | April 28, 2008 at 01:26 PM
Boy, if Ned is really on the hot seat (and I don't believe he should be), then he has some pretty good company. Anyone really believe Manaya was to blame for the Mets collapse?
Posted by: dalegribel | April 28, 2008 at 01:53 PM
If the Dodgers can finish April at .500, they will be in good shape. Based on the split spring training between Florida, China, and Arizona you could see a slow start coming. I expect the Dodgers to play better as the season moves along, and compete for a playoff spot. If they added a power impact bat at 3rd base (either via LaRoche playing well or a trade), that would put them over the top.
Colletti isn't going anywhere. I think most of these sorts of articles come about because the writers need to meet quota, and they are running out of things to write about.
Posted by: Santa Rosa Dodger | April 28, 2008 at 06:12 PM
K Bro.s
Has anyone ever thought to have Andruw Jones' eyes checked? Seriously. What if his problems are because he's seeing 20/30 instead of 20/20 because he's getting older. I know I personally needed glasses when I was playing ball and it was amazing how much of a difference it made. If it is his eyes, no amount of coaching or psycho-therapy, or "hang with thems" will help. But, if it is, it is such a simple solution.
Posted by: dodgerskip | April 28, 2008 at 09:06 PM
The Dodgers were lucky to play a team that's going even worse than they are right now. Tulowitzki looks even worse than Curacaow.
Perhaps they can build on this to right the ship. Florida is actually playing pretty well now. This will be another measuring stick.
Posted by: SaMo | April 28, 2008 at 11:01 PM
Keep em coming SaMo, curacaow is a good one.
Posted by: poppinfresh | April 29, 2008 at 07:49 AM
Chunkdog -
Comfort Inn and Suites in North Hollywood. OK area? Seems about 15mi from the stadium, about 25mi from beaches, close to things to do...any insight? I wouldn't mind that Holiday Inn in Burbank; however, it is a little more than we're looking to spend for just sleeping arrangements.
Posted by: Brian | April 29, 2008 at 09:21 AM