Strange atmosphere, this planet Houston

Why not trade LarRoche and Pierre for a starting pitcher. Not now but maybe down the line? I would say trade Jones but I'm sure nobody will take this guy.

I just hope now that our offense has kind of pick up our pitching doesn't start struggling.

I agree with dcerros that a trade seems best, but I'm not sure late summer . Unfortunately for LaRoche, he has become expendable with the emergence of DeWitt. However, there is no reason to act now. As with Jones, any team willing to take on Pierre would have to have an immediate need.
Not sure what you think we may be in need of a starting pitcher though? Outside of the 5 hole, the other 4 have been productive. Sure, there have been moments of FUBAR, but all pitchers have those (sans, Webb and Lee so far this year). Billingsley has found his groove again and Kershaw seems ready for a recall. I'm not sure the Dodgers are in need of any midseason trade at this point.

AK or BK

Commenting on the Steinberg article, do you guys know what time I have to show up at the Ravine in order to watch the players take batting practice??? I'm taking my 10 year brother tomorrow and would like to know. If you guys know.

And thanks for the linky, guys.

Does my 50 games without injury deal count for LaRoche squishing his toe?

If so the clock has reset.

This guy made out of glass.

DeWitt LAUGHS at his angry pinkie toe.

One thing I noticed about Dewitt is that he seems to have a great work ethic. I read somewhere that he shows up early to get some work in with Bowa. The hard work seems to be paying off. Not that my vote matters, but I also would like to say let's keep Dewitt in there, just for the work ethic.

In comparing Dewitt to LaRoche, has LaRoche had a string of games where he started and played a significant amount of innings each game? I think most of his AB's have come sporadically. If this is the case, then we cannot really compare the two of them. Dewitt has made the most of his opportunity and has done well both at the plate and on the field. LaRoche really hasn't had the same opportunity for various reasons. Comparing their offensive stats really don't matter because their opportunities have been different.

Artful is absolutely correct in his assessment of LaRoche's play as having been sporadic. It echoes what I said in an earlier post about LaRoche's playing time having been fractured. He's never been given an opportunity to play over a significant period of time, which is the only way to properly judge a player. Despite opinions to the contrary, 93 at bats IS statistically insignificant (what did Russell Martin do in his first 93 at bats this season?). When those at bats come sporadically, their insignificance is further magnified. Besides, LaRoche's .226 average in 2007 was accompanied by a .365 OBP.

In no way am I suggesting that LaRoche replace DeWitt. Until he proves otherwise, DeWitt has earned regular playing time. But DeWitt's success in no way diminishes LaRoche. If LaRoche can serve as insurance behind DeWitt, I'm all for it. If anything, LaRoche has earned some consideration based upon his earlier than expected recovery from his thumb injury (suggesting hard work), and the very positive attitude he displayed under very difficult circumstances (e.g., cheering on DeWitt and refusing to pout).

The link to the LA Times article about Kemp was also very instructive. I have mentioned before how impressed I've been with Kemp's ability to make adjustments at the plate. While he may still be fooled on occasion by breaking balls (what hitter isn't?), those times are fewer and further between. He's clearly become more selective at the plate, and that discipline has paid off. For a kid who's unjustly been labeled a troublemaker by some, he's surely worked extremely hard to refine his game, both at bat and in the field. Apparently Torre has noticed.

My own personal observations at spring training this year left me with the impression that Matt Kemp is anything but an arrogant troublemaker with a surly demeanor. If anything, he is an easy going, very likable young man, who appeared to get along with everyone, fans and teammates alike.

Finally, one last thought about LaRoche. If he can be traded in a deal that brings back significant value, I'm all for it. But I could say the same thing about Nomar and Pierre, and others as well. I also believe that he could serve as important insurance, be it off the bench, or in his current role at Las Vegas. I don't know how well he plays those positions, but LaRoche began his career at 2B, and has played some outfield. That versatility, his power, and plate discipline, still make LaRoche an intriguing player.