When you think of the great rotations in Dodger history, Johnny Podres has to be included. His teaming with Koufax and Drysdale would help LA win two World Series. 1959 and 1963. Podres was born on the 30th of September in 1930 in Witherbee, New York. Witherbee is one of five hamlets in Moriah, New York. It is located in the Adirondack Mountains.
Podres is of Lithuanian and Polish descent. His grandfather Barney was an immigrant from Russia and settled in the Adirondacks. Which is an area known for its attraction to sportsmen. Podres spent much time in Port Henry, a 73 square mile outdoorsman’s paradise. His father was a miner. His father Joe, found an outlet on Sundays playing semi-pro baseball for 25 years.
Podres had 3 brothers, Thomas, Walter, and James, and a sister, Mary. He used to listen to Dodger games on the radio when he was a child. His mother would come in and tell him to turn off the radio because he had school the next day. He also had an uncle who was his teammate in high school. They combined for a 1-0 17 inning game to win the Essex County League title for Mineville High School in Witherbee in 1949.
In 1950, he pitched for the Burlington Cardinals of the Vermont Collegiate Summer League. That winter he was signed as an amateur free agent by the Brooklyn Dodgers. Podres was sent to Newport News in the Class B Piedmont League and was 0-2 in 7 games and then was sent to Class D Hazard team in Kentucky in the Mountain States League. There he went 21-9 with a 1.67 ERA in 26 games. 22 of those were starts. He also struck out 228 batters.
He was promoted to AAA Montreal of the International League for the 1952 season and went 5-5 with a 3.27 ERA in 24 games, 13 that he started. Brooklyn was pretty desperate for pitching that season with Don Newcombe being called to military service, and they gave Podres a look-see in spring training but decided he needed more seasoning. One of his teammates was Tommy Lasorda. Tommy got the save in Podres’s first win in AAA ball.
In 1953 at the age of 20, Podres made the Dodger roster and had a decent rookie campaign going 9-4 with a 4.23 ERA. He started game 5 of the World Series but was pulled in the third inning. The Yankees won 11-7 behind a grand slam by Mantle off of Russ Meyer, who had relieved Podres.
He had a nice sophomore year winning 11 and losing 7 in 1954. He made 21 starts and had an ERA of 4.27. But the Dodgers did not repeat as league champions. The Giants won the pennant and the World Series beating the favored Indians in a sweep. The Dodgers had a new manager, unknown Walter Alston who was handpicked by Buzzie Bavasi to replace Charlie Dressen who cut his own throat by demanding a multi-year deal. Alston would sign 23 one-year contracts and stay with the Dodgers as manager through 1976 when he retired.
In 1955, Podres regressed a little. His record was 9-10, but he pitched more innings than ever before and struck out over 100 for the first time in the majors. His ERA dipped a little to 3.95. But his biggest impact came in the 1955 World Series. Alston gave Podres the ball in game 3 with the Dodgers down 2-0. They won in Ebbets Field 8-3. They won the next 2 games there to go up 3-2. They lost game 6 in Yankee Stadium, and Alston gave Podres the start in game 7. Mantle was sitting out due to knee issues, but he pinch hit in the 7th and popped out. Podres later said that Campy called the greatest game ever. He would put his glove down and Podres would hit the spot. With Amoro’s game-saving catch on Berra’s drive to left, Podres shut out the Yankees 2-0 and the Dodgers won their first World Series.
Podres was named series MVP and won a Corvette from the Sporting News. In 1956, Podres finally was inducted into the service and spent the year in the Navy. Mostly playing baseball at his two duty stations. In October of 1956, he was discharged for a medical condition that made him unfit for service. He had some problems with arthritis in his back.
Back in Brooklyn for the 57 seasons, he went 12-9 with a 2.66 ERA. It was Brooklyn’s last year as the home of the Dodgers and Podres and the rest of the team got ready for the move west. Podres threw the first shut out in the Coliseum, a 3 hit gem against the Reds. He finished with a 13-15 mark. He defied the odds and won 11 of those games at the Coliseum and only 2 on the road. He later said he pitched more carefully in LA because of the short left field dimensions. It was a nightmare for lefty’s.
He improved in 1959, going 14-9 with an ERA just above 4. Podres got another win in the World Series as the Dodgers beat the White Sox, 4 games to 2. Another ring for his finger. In 1960 Podres won 14 and lost 12. Dodgers were out of the race early. Podres improved in 1961 winning 18 games and losing 5. But again, LA did not win the pennant. It was by the numbers, his best season.
1962 and Johnny went 15-13 to help the Dodgers tie the Giants for the lead in the NL. Podres started the All Star game and also pitched the first game in their new home, Dodger Stadium. He lost the game 6-3 to the Reds. In 1963 he again contributed to a pennant-winning team going 14-12 and beating the Yankees in game 2 of the Dodgers sweep at Yankee Stadium.
In 1964, an injury to his elbow kept him out most of the year. He had surgery in the off-season and came back to win 7 and lose 6 in 1965. He did not pitch in the series win over the Twins. Claude Osteen, who had been acquired in a trade with the Senators was now the 3rd man behind Koufax and Drysdale.
In May of 1966, he was sold to Detroit for 20,000 dollars. That was the waiver price. Bavasi had given him a choice, Boston or Detroit, and Podres chose the Tigers because Charlie Dressen was the manager. He went 4-5 with them in 66 and 3-1 in 1967. He was a swingman there. The Tigers released him after the season. He tried to get on the Mets with former teammate Gil Hodges managing the team, but Hodges wanted younger players.
He made a comeback attempt with the Padres in 1969. He went 5-6 in 17 games and that was it. His record as a Dodger is 136-104 with a career ERA of 3.66. He had a very good curveball and probably the best change-up in the NL. He won 148 games and lost 116 in his 15 years in the majors.
After his playing career, he became a pitching coach for the Padres, Red Sox, Twins, and Phillies and did that for over 20 years. He was 4-1 in World Series play, 3 of those wins in crucial games against the mighty Yankees. He also was not that bad of a hitter and hit .190 with 2 HRs in his career.
One of his students as a pitching coach was Curt Shilling. Podres and his wife retired to his home in Moriah where he raised his two sons. He did not marry until 1966. His hometown is about 160 miles from Cooperstown where there is a statue of Podres throwing a ball 60 feet 6 inches away from a statue of Roy Campanella commemorating the Dodger’s first World Series win.
Podres passed away on January 13th, 2008 at age 75. He was battling a leg infection along with kidney and heart issues. Kershaw wears his # 22 now. But when he first came up, he was wearing # 45. He did not change numbers until they moved to Los Angeles in 1928.
I started following the Dodgers when I was 9 in 1963, which was Johnny’s last really productive year. I did not appreciate all that he had accomplished in the past, however, to win 158 games in the major leagues is pretty special. Great read, Bear!
One thing I want to address: A lot of people say the Dodgers look flat when they lose. Hello! Everyone looks flat when they are not hitting. I was listening to MLB.Radio and that very issue was raised on Saturday and several former MLB Players said “When people say we look flat, it is because when you are not hitting that’s how you look, but the intensity is the same. You are trying just as hard. When you cross those lines, you want to win and to say say that another team wanted it more, is just plan dumb! This is baseball, sometimes you may look flat, but the people who say that are the ones who have never played the game.
It was mentioned that Roberts should have pulled Buehler sooner, but the day before the Dodgers used 5 pitchers and on the day before that they used 11 pitchers. Doc had to try and get some innings. The Dodgers have an afternoon game in St. Louis today and Scherzer needs to right the ship. Mad Max has had a game where he did not have his best stuff, but he kept it under control. Buehler does not act like an Ace because an Ace should come through in games like this. This was a game that should have been won, but the Dodgers snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.
Now, they have to get hot and win bunches in a row. There is a lot of baseball yet to be played, but no doubt, yesterday was a disappointment!
The Dodgers are hitting .205 this month. I posted this yesterday:
Last 15 Games:
Max Muncy – .109
Cody Bellinger – .125
Billy McKinney – .125
Chris Taylor – .160
Albert Pujols – .190
Justin Turner – .212
Mookie Betts – .245
I suspect that Doc will shuffle the lineup, it’s hard to hide those hitters. I feel a hot streak coming on (Fingers Crossed).
Finally, I do not think Doc would keep rolling Cody out there without the coaches saying that he is getting close. Just my opinion.
Thanks Mark. I appreciate it. I thought Podres game 2 effort in the 63 series was crucial. Holding that team to one run in that ballpark. Wow. Here is the lineup he faced, Kubek, Richardson, Tresh, Mantle, Maris, Howard, Pepitone, Boyer and future Dodger pitcher, Al Downing. He gave up 6 hits in 8.1 innings before giving way to Perranoski who made the only appearance by a relief pitcher the entire series. They did not score until the 9th inning. Downing went 5 inning and gave up 7 hits and 3 runs including a HR to former Yankee, Bill Skowron.
Thanks for the great write-up, Bear. The 1963 WS is my first baseball memory. After Koufax struck out Mantle and Maris, back to back, I was hooked. It was hard for Podres to get the recognition he deserved overlapping with the Koufax/Drysdale era. But he was clutch, no doubt!
The only thing Bellinger is getting close to is spraining a knee falling over while swinging.
I am really just sick of watching him at this point. Same approach. Same dismal failure.
A long time ago, when I played beer league softball, a friend who was a good hitter, not great, hit 4 homeruns in a game. All 4 ABs were HRs. This is a guy that would hit 4 per season. This was the first game of the year and I remember telling my brother, who played as well, that was cool but probably the worse thing that could have happened. It was. Friend chased HRs all year with a long season of popups and lazy flyballs. At least my friend could be credited with a sac fly now and then. Cody can’t even make productive outs at this point.
Ten dollar talent with a ten cent brain I think at this point.
Playing “flat”? no XBH outside of a late, meaningless HR by Pujols. No steal attempts (against the BU catcher). No bunt attempts.
Nothing. Nada. Zilch. Just keep swinging for the fences when everyone in the park knows exactly that is what you are going to do.
Mark, were the Giants not in the exact same spot as LA as far as pitchers used, etc? That didn’t seem to get in the way of winning and using their team to win. 3-4 pitchers in by the 3rd? I can’t remember exactly. I would almost be fine with a loss if it at all looked like we were trying to win the game we are playing!
I will go back to ARoids point that coaches come in and say that this team will NOT bunt. That is LA. Will NOT. No matter that your 8 hitter is hitting 165 with blazing speed. He wants to swing as hard as possible and miss 93 MPH fastballs over and over while our manager puts on “blank stare” face and pats him on the ass when he walks back to the dugout.
Rant over but watching this team is getting to be like watching a Mayweather fight. Can pretty much predict it
Bad timing by WB to have his worst game in years. But it happens to the best of them.
Dodgers have to regroup and go on to a new winning streak. Giants will not go away. Winning that bullpen game vs our ace will give them even more steam for the stretch run.
Tough series coming up at St.Louis with a cross country flight and an afternoon game to top it off. Hopefully MS is on his game tonight. Will not get any easier with the Padres coming to town after that. They will be out for revenge after the sweep couple weeks ago.
Muncy, Belli, CT3, Mookie better find their hitting shoes soon.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think it made them think they are better. But I do not think it is going to give them steam for the stretch. Their pitching is in worse shape than ours. Gausman has been beatable. Webb has been their ace. They get a slight respite with the Rockies, but the Rockies have been very good at home. And even the Cubs with their new players are playing a lot better of late. The telling factor is going to be how they play the Padres. Those 10 games could be huge. And they could very easily lose half of those games.
“If you are freaking perfect all the time, I don’t think this game would be fun for anybody.” — Albert Pujols
I grew up in Ticonderoga, about 15 miles from Moriah. Our neighbor when I was a teenager was a guy named Sherm Chappell. He was Podres’ catcher in high school and went down with Johnny to try out for the Dodgers. Podres, of course, was signed, but Sherm was rejected. Sherm later said, “I could hit and I could field, but I couldn’t run. I was slower than sap running up a tree!”. I saw him hit a golf ball once and, if that’s an indication, I believe he could hit. The drive started out about 5 feet above the ground for the first hundred yards and then rose for another 125-150 yards straight down the fairway. Sherm went on to become a high school baseball coach and ultimately the Principal of Moriah High.
Cool story. I lived on the same block in the early 60’s as the Sherry brothers, Norm and Larry. They used to have us kids shag balls for them before they went to Vero.
Do we call that 2 degrees of separation, Bear? Mine is more like 10! I really appreciate all of your history lessons. Thanks.
Nice write-up on Johnny Podres, Bear. Have fond memories of those days.
Losing AJ Pollock was huge, especially with Cody Bellinger not catching up to most pitches at 94 and above. But shoulder injuries take time, just ask Matt Kemp and Adrian Gonzalez.
But the Dodgers, the best team in baseball got outplayed by the Giants. No, they are not hitting. But they’ve been inconsistent all season. The Dodgers needed to take two of three and they failed.
Dylan Hernandez said in this morning’s LA Times that Bellinger is a liability, but with Pollock out, who does Dave Roberts turned to — McKinstry or McKinney?
Bellinger hit .276 against pitches 94 and up in 2019 but this year it’s .093. Remember he was having trouble with the shoulder in 2020. Mookie Betts believes Bellinger will eventually get better, the shoulder returning to normal, but the Dodgers are running out of time.
Hernandez believes all this is magnified with the upcoming free agencies of Max Scherzer, Corey Seager, Clayton Kershaw and Kenley Jansen and the possibility of a labor stoppage in 2022.
Players and owners couldn’t be that stupid, right? Labor stoppage? Nobody is that dumb, right?
The Dodgers can solve the pending free agent issue with the checkbook. Will they? For some of those players, yes.
Just so everyone knows, just got the season ticket package for 2022. They want a quick answer, normally it’s in December. The cost went up again for ’22. They rolled over the tickets from 2020 to ’21. Nobody is quite sure why the earlier commitment. For the first time in many years, I think I’ll pass. Still have a few days left to make a decision.
Again, nice story about Podres.
Thanks, but I think they needed to win at least one. Getting swept would have been really bad. There is not much they can do, But they really need to get Beaty’s bat back. He is their best pinch hitter. Just think if he had been here to pinch hit instead of McKinney, they might have scored some runs. I think Bellinger has totally lost his confidence. I also think his coaches are sending the wrong message to him. He needs to quit swinging so damn hard and just make contact. Quit chasing high fastballs and low pitches on the outside corner of the plate. But more than that, Taylor needs to quit striking out so damn much. Giants will be hard pressed to take more than half of the games they have with the Padres. And while they are playing them, the Dodgers can make up some ground. SF has some pitching problems.
That is the difference Bear,your last sentence(fr: 9/5) “he has not been himself (Bellinger) all year. Each of the other players you reference, at multiple times have carried the team. Cody cannot say the same. If Cody could have just taken his ego out of his own self created problems and gone down to OKC to work things out, he would be in a much better place as the playoffs are eminent. Yes I understand how these big salary players’ super image of themselves would probably never let this suggestion of mine come into existence. He could have gone down where the pressure would have been minimal, if any at all. He would not have any where near the distractions he has in LA. After a couple of months in AAA gaining knowledge and confidence and improvement, he could have come back for 25 games to ready himself for the “money ball”. We all know, he is as lost, as lost can be.
His swing has not changed in the past 4 months. He makes minor changes to his stance but not his swing which is his biggest problem. His swing is from 12 to 6 and 1 to 5 where it should be from 2 to 4. All he has to do is look at the swings of his fellow team members: AB, WS, AJ, TT, MM, MB. They have beautiful swings compared to his. His refusal to change is not going to sit well for him. I want him to succeed as much as all of the Dodger fans do, but he has to admit the problem is his swing and then make a commitment to work with an off-season coach who will not coddle him but work his ass off because if he doesn’t, this year will feel like a piece of cake compared to what he will go through in 2022.
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This season, Bellinger is hitting .093 on pitches 94mph or faster.
One would think that perhaps shortening a swing, or attempting at least 1 bunt a game, would benefit him, and, more importantly, the team.
But nope. Let’s keep swinging as if we’re in the home run hitting contest.
I’ve spoken someone who works with the team and SportsnetLA many times during this season. He’s told me that perception is Bellinger isn’t a very smart person, and isn’t open to making certain changes to become a better hitter. Now maybe that’s just his perception, but I’m guessing he’s also heard that from many others in the organization.
Perhaps it’s stubbornness, who knows. But at some point, doing the same ineffective thing over and over is detrimental to the team, and thus extremely selfish.
Having said that, he’s a gold glove in CF, and we’ll need that come October.
Well, Bobby, you don’t say. I wonder where we have heard that before? Those insiders might be confirming what I’ve been saying for two years. It looks like he isn’t even trying to make consistent contact right now. Just swinging as hard as he can and screw it if he hits it or not. Him trying to help the team offensively doesn’t seem to be a concern of his right now. As this pathetic display continues I’m to the point where I have no respect for Bellinger.
Nice write up on Podres Bear. I always enjoyed watching him pitch. He was not afraid of the big moment.
The Giants showed us another weapon they possess that the entire Dodger team has, for unknown reasons, has treated like it was radioactive: THE BUNT. Four months ago I suggested that CB should start placing that tool in his offensive game plan. Even Mark (image that ) confessed he would have no objection if Cody started using it. Why has Belli shunned that option ?…………….because it wouldn’t look “manly” in comparison to hitting a roundtripper. If I had been Cody I would have (and currently would) starting laying the bunt down. I would keep doing it until they moved one of their shift players to the left side of the diamond from the right side. ALL OF THE DODGERS should start using the bunt. I’m not real sure but I think a run scored by way of the bunt counts just as much as the rarely seen laser single to the outfield.
If 4 or 5 players start using it, that will initiate more rallies, rbi/s, greater team enthusiasm and most importantly, WINS. Teams are challenging us to use it (by clearing out entire left side of the diamond), so let’s check our egos at the “on deck” circle and make it happen.
Actually Bellinger did try a bunt this past week. He made an out.
Yep. No reason to try that ever again.
Nice article Bear, hope you and all the LADT posters have a nice Labor Day.
What a disappointment, but in the grand scheme of things, it was just one game out of 162. Sure, it was horrible timing for Walker to throw his worst game of the season and it’s senseless to blame Doc for pulling him too early or too late especially considering how much he’s been forced to lean on his bullpen. In fact, Doc did not make any head scratching moves yesterday. This loss was purely on the players.
I also get what Mark was saying about looking flat.. But, I don’t fully buy that teams don’t play flat from time to time. JT was recently quoted as feeling the dog days of summer, implying just that. Baseball is a grueling 162 game season, I fully expect some sort of burnout from time to time. It’s impossible to have the same focus day after day for a 6-7 month season (including post season) that typically features less than a day off per week on average with half of those “off days” used for travel, complete with jet lag. Call it what you want, burn-out, flat, unfocused, etc. But, the great thing about baseball, is there’s another game to play tomorrow.
Bright spots included the bullpen holding the bad guys scoreless for the rest of the way and Big Al coming up clutch with that majestic bomb to pull within two. The umpire really screwed Betts at the most inopportune time squashing the possible comeback. Dinner plans, no doubt.
David Price came in and helped out by walking a tight rope while issuing 3 free passes. He looked like something was wrong barely hitting 92, but got through almost a couple of innings with the help of Greene. It just might be time to call it a season for Price and try again next year with Kershaw, Duffy, Gonso set to come off the IL soon and V-Gone tuning up in the minors. It’s pretty hard to justify keeping a pitcher on the roster who’s been very average while healthy, when he is clearly no longer healthy.
Another scheduling snafu has the Dodgers travelling to St. Louis after a late afternoon game, to play a late day game in St. Louis against a hungry Wild Card team. No rest for the weary, Clayton and Gonso’s scheduled rehabs won’t allow them to pitch in the middle games of the upcoming series, so a tired bullpen will have to handle those games with Scherzer pitching today, and Urias lined up for Thursday. As we prepare to play the Cards and the Padres, the Giants get a reprieve getting the Rockies and Cubs on the road. It’s not looking pretty folks. The good guys are really going to have to step up their game in order to win the division for a 9th straight time.
All in all, it wasn’t enough and our rivals from the North get bragging rights at least until the season is settled and the inevitable postseason matchup occurs.
Cody Bellinger is a head case right now. Ever since he got benched against left handers, he’s regressed even further. It could be coincidence, but it really looks like he’s got no confidence. His time is running out at any sort of a chance to salvage this dismal season.
Steven Souza Jr. posted a video of him doing an AJ Pollock impression of AJ’s stance and swing. Maybe he’s ready for a second go around to replace injured AJ. It shouldn’t matter much with all the firepower in the lineup, it’s too bad that just about everyone is slumping as Mark pointed out. The silver lining is that slumps eventually end and they should be ready for another hot streak soon.
Iam sorry about Cody. But as I said just two days He is a
Mexican rehilete. A very Nice and traditional toy that spins and spins when you blow it or the air moves it. He must help the team take avantage of speed buntting more, looking for hit to the left SIDE, put the ball in play and run Hart to first base.
I think many of you like to make assumptions by starting at the bottom line and working up to prove your point.
It must make you feel smart, so if you are so damn smart, let’s see you do your taxes that way. Start with the conclusion you want and work your way backward. Maybe someone will visit you in prison.
Even the beat writers have no idea because the team only feeds them what they want.
It’s always simple to fix other people’s problems. Obviously, we know about the shoulder surgery, broken leg, and hamstring, but what about his pregnant girlfriend? Is that a factor?
Here’s what we do know:
1. Cody always hustles, no matter how bad he is hitting.
2. Cody is working overtime with the hitting coaches and watching a lot of video.
3. Cody has the support of his teammates.
4. Cody has the support of the front office.
5. Cody has the support of the coaches and manager.
Cody has never said that he did not want to go back to OKC. That is s product of your small minds. So many of you want to blame someone or demonize someone to evidently make you feel morally superior.
Cody is not hitting. Even Ray Charles can see that, but if KNOWLEDGEABLE BASEBALL PEOPLE think he belongs, then I defer to them rather than the “biddies in the beauty shop.”
Most of you said that Yoski Tsutsugo was a waste of a roster space, but the Dodgers thought they could “fix him.” Well, they did and he asked to be released so that he could start.
With the Pirates, he is averaging a HR every 6.5 AB’s and is hitting .267 with a 1.164 OPS. He was as bad as Belli, but the Dodgers worked with him because they believed they could FIX him.
Thank you for your uninformed, ignorant opinions, but I think I will trust the baseball people over the hacks.
DISCLAIMER: No hacks were injured in the making of this comment!
Random thoughts, based on your above comments:
1) I have no preconceived conclusions so am not stating anything here with any conclusion in mind.
2) Taxes the way you outlined are exactly how most wealthy people instruct their accountants to do theirs. Some wind up in prison, most don’t.
3) The beat writers have better info than we do because they do get to talk to the players every so often and don’t rely completely on info that the front office feeds them. They may or may not decide to print some or all of what they have privy to.
4) I am sure Cody’s impending fatherhood factors into how his season is going, whether on a plus or minus basis I have no idea.
5) I don’t think any of us feel that Cody isn’t trying. We just have a hard time, based on what little knowledge we have, figuring out why he doesn’t try changing his approach. There may be a very good explanation. There may not be a very good explanation. Maybe someday we’ll know which it was.
6) Your favorite expression “even Ray Charles can see that” somehow bothers the hell out of me. That’s my problem, not yours, but keep in mind that Ray is dead so any dead person could “see that” as well as Ray. I would prefer the substitution of Mr. Magoo for Ray Charles, but as I said, this is totally my problem.
7) I was not happy when we couldn’t find a spot on the roster for Yoshi when he finally started to get things together at OKC, but he’s far better off at Pittsburgh where he’ll get more playing time.
8) Since we did so nicely fixing Yoshi, do you think once we finally fix Cody we might ship him off to Pittsburgh? Maybe this is the start of a special relationship between our two teams.
Thanks for allowing me this space to express my uninformed, ignorant opinions.
Tsutsugo went to AAA to fix things. Trying to fix things at the ML level is significantly harder.
Watching Cody swing is the most painful thing I have to do. Any decent pitcher can strike him out if they kept the ball up.
Oh, and for all you guys who say his defense helps…did you notice that fly ball hit over his head, I think in the 2nd inning? Cody’s first move was to come up…then he realized he had to go back, and was just short of catching it. Had he caught that ball, that would have been a different inning. But, before anyone jumps me on this, I will bring it out myself- yes I know the Sun was out and shining on the field and that could have been the cause for the misplay. There, so please don’t be redundant.
And I will conclude with this- I respect your right to want to continue to see a .160 hitter stay in the lineup. Fine by me….but be consistent. If you are okay with Cody’s ineptitude, then no other hitter should upset you because Cody is the worst of them all. You heard the announcer say last night, Cody has the worst average over the last two years than anyone.
Aren’t opinions just that… uninformed and therefore ignorant? With your little list above I totally agree with #1. I have never questioned his hustle throughout this terrible season. What proof do you have to confirm #2? If he is working overtime with coaches and watching video and getting the results he’s getting then I might suggest he adjust his study habits. Of course he’s supported by his teammates, FO and coaches. That is irrelevant to his offensive woes. But, with the selfish way he approaches hitting no matter the situation he surely doesn’t reciprocate that support. But, that’s my uniformed opinion.
Like I said weeks ago when Mark, for the umptieth time, declared that Cody was coming around and it would be the start of the old Cody (Talk about starting at the bottom) let’s see where Cody stands at the end of the season. I, also, said I would love to be proven wrong. And, that hasn’t changed.
Lol…..if Cody is working hard with the coaches then maybe we need to fire those coaches and hire new ones because Cody is regressing.
Oh, I know….he’s still recovering. Then why don’t he take his .160 BA and zillion Ks to Oklahoma and work on his swing there instead of hurting our team like he has been doing all year long?
Shame on us if we don’t have one decent OF who can come up and at least platoon with Cody. Apparently AF was more concerned with getting us bullpen pitchers, he forgot outfielders, especially a RHH.
AF did a phenomenal job building a quality bullpen but depended on the depth of position players he signed as FA and players from Oklahoma City that weren’t ready or wasn’t there. Now with Pollock is on the IL , Taylor needing some rest and Bellinger overmatched, it’s come back to bite us we need it the most.
I do not have privileged information about the team, I am not an agent or a scout or a baseball coach. I am just a fan who criticizes and congratulates his players. That criticism or congratulation changes from play to play. When Cody makes a great catch in outfield I applaud him and when he starts hitting well I’ll be very happy. but speaking of results so far they are poor, very poor I would say. and that has hurt the team. That’s why I say that from my point of view as a fan, I should try more to help the team and not just twist and turn like a pinwheel.
.167 .550 That adds up to be the WORST hitter in all of baseball. It’s a shame but it is what it is.
I love it when MT makes a comment that its his opinion that Bellinger will get going, but when others offer an opinion that Bellinger sucks, won’t or can’t make an adjustment, should be sitting the pine or whatever else they have to offer, they’re idiots of the highest order (uninformed, ignorant opinions is the exact phrase).
Broad and unattributed statements like Cody is working overtime with the coaches and watching a lot of video, Cody has the support of teammates, Cody has the support of the FO, Cody has the support of the coaches and the manager (really- wasn’t he PH for with a runner on 3rd with less than two outs the other night?).
You have no idea if any of those statements are true. For all we know the exact opposite might be the case. He’s not taking to coaching, he’s not putting in the effort to get better, the teammates can’t stand that he’s not working hard to get out of his slump, he shows up late and takes a solo taxi back to the hotel, he’s on the phone all the time, he’s gone Hollywood, he’s too big for his britches, he’s arrogant and uncoachable……yada, yada, yada.
As Dodger fans we want Cody to be excellent, to regain his MVP form, but the “blind defense” of his offensive production from a season or two ago defies logic and common sense. As you are fond of saying even Ray Charles can see it and it’s 20/20 Cody is a shell of his former self, he’s not a competitive AB, he’s nearly an automatic out every AB, he’s batting 8th in the line-up, he earns $16.1 million a year and was PH for. If that is what it feels like to be supported by your manager, we’re watching a different game.
norcaldodgerfan,
Is English your primary language?
It is not an opinion that Bellinger sucks. It is a fact!
Nowhere did I say that Cody would get it going! Go back and re-read it! I am not psychic and can’t see into the future.
I just don’t buy the BS I read by fans who can’t see any better than Mr. MaGoo.
If he is not taking to coaching, do you really believe the manager, coaches, and front office would support him?
By the way, I have every Ray Chales LP. He happens to be a favorite of mine.
You’re right you made an assumption that since he’s penciled into the line-up everyday the coaches must be of the opinion or belief he’s close. Could it be they simply have no other viable options.
Do you really know Bellinger is working overtime, taking a lot of BP and watching video, has the support of teammates, has the support of the FO and coaches and the manager or is that a Wild Ass Guess (err correction-assumption on your part?) Inquiring minds want to know. Support those statements or it’s just your belief or opinion on your part.
An assumption is something taken for granted while an opinion is a belief or judgement on insufficient grounds to produce certainty or a personal attitude or view on a topic. Is your belief Bellinger is doing all of those things listed above your assumption or opinion?
It is not an assumption. It is based upon multiple sources across the media, plus a little inside info (not a lot).
The fact that the Dodgers keep rolling him out there speaks to the situation.
Who gives a rats ass if he is “talking to coaches”, watching film, etc?
For one, that is his job that he is paid a fortune for. Two, it isn’t helping.
They could talk to me and I could watch film 20 hours a day but if I can’t catch up to a 93mph fastball, AND am the WORST hitter in baseball, would they support me? Nope.
You really think those guys on the team aren’t tired of seeing him kill rally after rally? I get many of them may be friends but I have played sports with friends and I still used to get frustrated watching them disappoint. Doesn’t mean we can’t be friends but it may mean that I want someone up in your spot.
The guy is toast unless he changes his approach. His body can’t maintain that swing for many more years anyways so he may as well adapt now and see if he can make it to his free agent years.
Saying all that, Bellinger is what he is. Possible a flash in the pan ala Puig back in the day who may be a nice player going forward. Maybe not.
“ If he is not taking to coaching, do you really believe the manager, coaches, and front office would support him?”
Why do you assume this Mark?
Doc has already platooned him, which clearly shows he no longer trusts him to even have a chance to get a hit against a lefty so why bother? In fact, by Doc doing this, even he agrees….that one nice running catch Cody makes isn’t worth an 0-4 and leaving 5 runners in scoring position stranded.
And he is batting 8th. What does this show you? Support from your manager? Not to me…it shows me- I’m trying to bury you for now because I don’t want you to do more harm than you already are doing with a bat in your hands.
As for support by front office….let’s hold off on that for now. Like you have told me, he is under contract for next year and is still healing. Let’s see how he is after one month next season.
I think the only reason why he hasn’t been demoted is because we have no one even decent to replace him. All these guys who were brought up have done no better than him, so I guess the thinking is….might as well keep him up and hope that he finally starts to play like he did 3 years ago. Wishful thinking I know, but I guess they are like you, Mark- optimists! Lol
Your friend,
TM
The beauty of baseball was on full display yesterday. Bueller vs a bullpen game should have been in the bag until Bueller gave up 6 runs in 3 innings pitching his worst game of the season. I’m sure Vegas made a killing on the betting line yesterday because no one saw that coming. The Dodgers eventually made it close, with a final result of 6-4 after trailing 6-1. They squandered some big opportunities along the way, so they know the game was winnable. A game like this will help in the long run…
The Giants are having a miracle season, there’s no doubt about that. But, Vegas and all the pundits are still picking the Dodgers even though the Giants have spent the majority of the year in first place and also having the best record in baseball.
Instead of being upset at another couple of injuries with Pollock landing on the IL and Price not being able to make his scheduled start, be intrigued by the excitement and suspense of a late September/early October pennant race. This seemingly unimaginable at the beginning of the season.
Another Frederick Nietzche quote is applicable here. “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” The bad taste of the Giants having a season series win over the Dodgers will no doubt motivate players to step up their game. They have some things to work on for the rest of the season. Only health is the difference between this team being great and unbeatable.
I had a conversation with Bear before the series started in which I stated that with two SF bullpen games I hoped we wouldn’t play the Giants series with the same lack of urgency we did the recent Rockies series. For whatever reason, the results were similar even if my reasoning was faulty.
Maybe this is just one of those teams that plays best with its back to the wall. I guess we’ll know soon enough.
Well the facts are that Cody is hitting.167 with OPS of .550 in 300 plate appearances with a WAR of -1.2. And to my eye, Cody is a good CF, but on ESPN he has a dwar of -0.2 and is ranked below average as a CF, and misplayed a ball yesterday that cost the Dodger a run or two. And at 1b, Cody made the worst throw I have seen this year to allow the winning run to score against the Giants in July.
Cody makes $16 million in salary and has had a negative contribution to the team thus far.
I have no problem with Cody’s effort and hustle, but professional baseball players must earn their playing time based on performance. Even former MVPs need to produce or eventually are benched or sent down to AAA. I guess being pinch hit for with Austin Barnes in the 9th inning is the beginning of the acceptance phase. Cody has been the worst hitter in the MLB this year. Unfortunately, until Pollock hopefully comes back, there are limited options other than Cody in CF. I would personally have Cody use his speed by bunting occasionally and shortening his swing with two strikes. It is very difficult to make significant swing changes in the middle of the season. And when Pollock returns, Cody should be mostly a defensive replacement and pinch runner. I would rather have Beaty at the plate than Bellinger right now. And while DJ Peters was not ready as a permanent CF option, despite his early struggles he has a WAR of 0.8 this year and 10 HRs in 158 plate appearances. Strange move by Friedman to just release Peters when they have limited CF options, and keep McKinney, Raley, Reks and others on 40 man roster instead.
But this is just one hack’s opinion, who doesn’t have a $10 million salary or a $280 million payroll.
1 – Even George Shearing (a blind jazz pianist) could see that Cody can’t hit the fastball. A factoid – since the beginning of 2020, Bellinger has the lowest BA against the fastball of all major league hitters. In yesterday’s game, the Giants chose to challenge him with a runner in scoring position, first base open and less than 2 outs even with the pitcher on deck. They fanned him and then got Buehler – end of rally. Bellinger has become a rally killer – yeah, I know, the Dodgers aren’t hitting as a team, but c’mon man – he’s hitting .167. He’s hitting .093 against FB 94 MPH or higher. If he can’t hit the fastball, then what are the Dodgers supposed to do with him?
2 – Billy McKinney is another wasted AB. He’s hitting .154/.287/.244 with the Dodgers. Julio Urias, Clayton Kershaw, David Price and Tony Gonsolin hit better.
3 – For all of the complaining about AJ Pollock, he was the Dodgers’ best hitter since 7/1 with a .332 BA and .966 OPS. Someone has to step up. By the way, Matt Beatty would be the Dodgers’ best non-starter against RHP. Overall he’s hitting .262/.358/.374/.732, Better than Bellinger, Lux, Barnes, McKinney and McKinstry.
Quick side note re: George Shearing. When I went to Capitol Records back in day to play my ‘reel-to-reel’ demo, it was Julian Lee who took the time to listen to it. Mr. Lee was also blind…and produced some of George Shearing’s works. Thankfully for all of your ears, Capitol signed Rick Springfield instead of me.
Remember when Jerry Glanville said what the NFL stood for…Not For Long meaning if you don’t produce you won’t be in the league for too long.
Is there a similar acronym for MLB and Cody’s case? I think he’ll get the offseason to get stronger, enjoy the arrival of his child and develop a re-tooled swing, but he’s not for long and won’t get the multi-year contract from the Dodgers if there is no marked improvement.
My eye sight is 20/20 and I see an automatic out, a former MVP hitting 8th, a ball player earning $16.1 million and producing less than a journeyman ball player. I see a player pinch hit for with runners on 3rd and 1st with less than two outs and I see the Giants pitch to him with runners at 3rd and 1st with one out and the pitcher on-deck. Need more evidence? The book is completely out on Bellinger.
He is due to make a similar amount of money next year.
Will the FO make that 15 million dollar gamble?
Or could he become non tendered?
Time will tell.
Spoiler:
He’s not being non-tendered.
LOL
Time will not tell. Rational minds will prevail.
Afternoon Dodger Lineup:
HITTERS H-AB RBI HR SB AVG
T. Turner2B 158-494 58 21 26 .320
M. Muncy1B 105-411 78 30 2 .255
M. BettsRF 98-369 46 19 9 .266
J. Turner3B 126-448 71 21 2 .281
C. SeagerSS 73-261 38 8 1 .280
C. TaylorLF 123-465 69 19 13 .265
C. BellingerCF 45-270 32 9 2 .167
A. BarnesC 39-173 20 6 0 .225
M. ScherzerP 0-47 1 0 0 .000
I wish you guys would stop all your complaining about Cody. He’s obviously made enough progress to be moved up to 7th in the order today.
Barnes being put 8th (after Cody) in the batting order today is the equivalent of being spit on by his manager.
Dodgers Bring Back RHP Neftalí Féliz and Option Andrew Vasquez
I haven’t heard anyone complaining about Pollock, but I’m sure somebody must have. When September rolled around I was all for giving Bellinger some time off and going with an outfield of Pollock, Taylor and Betts. I don’t care for McKinney and Beaty doesn’t impress much either but if the starters are hitting he’s a’ight. Well, the others aren’t hitting. If they don’t start before the end of the month this team will fade into the sunset. Our pitching is good enough to keep us close. But Muncy, Turner, Betts, Taylor and Smith have to hit. I trust they will.
I heard a stat mentioned yesterday that caught my attention. The giants pitching staff is a league leader in inducing ground balls. In today’s game that is a stat you want to be able to brag about. They also lead the league, or did anyway, in BB/9 and were second in first pitch strike/ahead in count. Farhan took his genius and put it to work right away up there. All those guys can throw sinkers for strikes.
Will Duffy and Clayton help the finish? I’ll be honest, I have my doubts.
An old school saying that still rings true – you gotta hit with them to play with them. We have to start hitting again.
This is a link of Cody Bellinger, the high school prospect.
Maybe some of you technical experts like Badger, Phil and others who have coached or played a lot can look at this and see what differences there are from his high school days to now. I seem to remember that he wasn’t considered a power hitter in high school, just the kind of hitting approach we all seem to want from him these days.
It looks to me as though he used to spread his legs more than he does now, but I’d be interested in feedback from you experts. Then maybe we should send this to Cody.
First little bit is fielding and then it jumps to hitting video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RsAe86rzFes
His swing now looks more like a golf swing.His swing looks more level back then.
His swing was a lot flatter in 2019.
His legs are spread, his knees are bent, and his hands start higher, then drop. I prefer quieter hands but I think he looks better in those videos than he does now.
Fans commenting on Cody Bellinger’s stance and comparing it to his High School form is peak modern fan-hood IMO.
Souza has been added to the taxi squad. I think he’s decent enough defensively that we could add both him and Beaty and drop McKinney and someone else.
A lot of people assume a lot of nonsense like Belli can’t hit a fastball. I have a strong feeling that most of the people that come up with this stuff aren’t watching the games and instead are just looking at box scores and making assumptions.
It may surprise some of you that Cody has indeed hit several fastballs pretty hard during the last 4 series. Here’s the hard hit balls he has in the last 4 series, courtesy of baseball savant…
Date Exit Velo PitchMPH Pitch Type
9/5 95.3 98.9 4SFB
9/4 95.3 79.9 Slider
8/31 97.2 87.0 Slider
8/31 95.5 81.9 CB
8/29 105.1 96.2 4SFB
8/28 98.0 96.9 4SFB
8/28 94.7 95.0 4SFB
8/25 95.6 84.1 Slider
8/25 101.4 93.9 4SFB
During this timeframe he hit an additional 10 balls with an exit velocity over 90 Mph. So, while the results aren’t there, they aren’t as bad as most of you are making them out to be.
As you can see, he’s not only hitting fastballs hard, but he’s also hitting sliders pretty hard was well. But, most of his hard hit balls have come against 4 seam fastballs, which is exactly the opposite of what most of you are saying. 3 of the five came against 96 MPH+ which is elite fastball velocity, and one of the other came against lefty Blake Snell when he threw 7 scoreless against us.
See for yourself…
https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/cody-bellinger-641355?stats=gamelogs-r-hitting-statcast&season=2021
I don’t watch every at bat or every game. But it looks like the last two “hard hit” balls were a ground out to second base and a pop up to second base. Although I imagine these stat cast definitions even out over time, and Cody was 0 for 5 the last two games.
nobody is saying he can’t hit a fastball.
It is clear that he can……….93 out of 1000 times. .093
🙂 dems the facts
* A-Rod speaks nonsense a lot. Maybe his PED use effected his brain. First, he suggested they walk Bellinger intentionally top 2 to pitch to Striker. Why would you walk Bellinger? Getting Belli and Striker doesn’t turn over the lineup.
* Then he called for the contact play with 1 out. You know how I feel about the contact play. Wrong both times. Then he was asked who would have an advantage in a one game playoff. He said the Giants because of their depth. Huh?
* A-Rod said that while the Dodgers were striking out the Giants were bunting their way on. He said the Giants have 15 bunts and the Dodgers only 3 all year. I’m not sure those numbers are correct but his point is well take. I’ve just stop talking about it.
* I’m glad I quit coaching up Bellinger’s swing. I’ve given up. If I was waiting for him to stop dropping his head a foot while the pitch is on the way and to cut down on that violent swing, I’d be looking for a cyanide capsule in my rubber room.
* Doc, seriously looks like he’s aged 10 years this season. What was he supposed to be doing differently yesterday? CT3 is an out. Pollocks out. He has no platoon or replacement for Belli. We have 3 starting pitchers. He’s writing the right names down but they need to play better.
* Doc’s dugout in-game interview in the 4th was also a joke. He was asked if he’d thought about what he would do if it came to a wild card game? What kind of question is that? What’s the anticipated answer to that question? There are still 25 games left and we’re one game back. This isn’t over just yet.
* You could dissect this game like a sophomore Biology project but it’s real simple.We scored 4 runs against 9 pitchers, 7 of which I’d never heard of. 2 runs through 8 innings on 4 hits. Our Ace 2.0 gave up six runs on 7 hits in 3 innings.
End of story
Excellent summary Phil!
I hope they are not wearing those stupid ass pajamas today. The real Dodger uniform is a beautiful uniform.
Taylor is the Best hitting playera jaja and dodgers is the Best hitting team ever… jajaja…..Nice Star ….very Nice to see Lot a bats alive…..Even Cody hit to the left…nice
Them saying Dodgers are the most hated team in baseball isn’t mentioning the flipside that Dodgers are the most loved team in baseball backed up by Dodgers fans are everywhere and are seen at all road games more than any other team and fill their own stadium, which is bigger than any other. More players want to play for the organization than any other. So if envy is hatred I agree Dodgers are most hated. But beware, we got fans everywhere.
Best home and road attendance. I guess you can frame it either way. Love or hate still = $$.
That title goes to the YANKEES!
Dodgers are clearly the most hated by umpires.
They’re clearly most hated by the Commissioner’s office as well.
And that just proves it. Max made that tag!
Scherzer is much better than I thought. Since becoming a Dodger he has been making a strong case why he deserves to be in the CY conversation. This dude is a stud!
Seager is a better hitter than Muncy. The Dodgers should flip Muncy and Seager.
I agree that Scherzer is in the Cy Young Race. Buehler and Max may battle for it and be #1 and #2.
Seager IS a better hitter, but Max will always have a higher OPS. It can be argued either way ass to who is best suited for #2. I used to prefer Seager there, but really have d=no preference,
If you are looking at the past 15 to 20 games, Max sucks.
Scherzer not only have been very good but goes deep in games too.
Wow what a performance by MS. 7 innings, 12 K’s and one unearned run. He threw 92 pitches & 67 were strikes a 72.8%. Lets wrap him up for 2-3 years.
Sorry Scherzer has been….bye the way very rare see one pitcher gets 8th
OMG I just assumed(ass you a me) he was out after seven.
I’m gonna answer Doc’s question on who starts the WC Gsme.
Max. 100%
Absolutely Max!
Although we do have three studs with ice in their veins, I would still go with Mad Max.
Max did what Urias and Buehler didn’t do after an extra inning, 11 pitcher bullpen game on Friday night.
The entire pen (minus whoever pitches the 9th) owes Scherzer a nice bottle of Don Julio.
That was an Ace-like performance for many reasons, especially since we have TBD pitching tomorrow and Wednesday!
September 6, 2021
Gonsolin (shoulder) could be activated from the 10-day injured list to start or work as primary pitcher Thursday against the Cardinals or Friday against the Padres, Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times reports.
September 6, 2021
Kershaw (forearm) could rejoin the major-league rotation this weekend, Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times reports.
Good news. No more bullpen games soon. Then Doc can use the bullpen guys as much as needed.
I have full confidence in both Buehler and Scherzer if it comes down to a wildcard game. A lot is going to depend on the circumstances in the days prior.
Great write up on Johnny Podres, Bear. I don’t know if the players received rings back then or not, but now that you mentioned Podres being on 4 Dodgers championship teams, I was wondering what other Dodgers were on 4 Dodgers championship teams? I would guess Koufax and Drysdale, maybe Gilliam? I would appreciate your response.
He was on 4 World Series champs and 5 pennant winners. Koufax was on 4 World Series Champs and 2 pennant winners. Drysdale was on 3 World Series winners also. Gilliam was on 4 as was Sandy. But he played on the 53, 55, 56, 59, 63, 65 and 66 teams. Robinson, Snider, Hodges Reese, Furillo, Campanella and Newcombe were on Numerous pennant winners. With Snider, Hodges and Furillo getting 2 rings, 55, 59. Newk, Campy, Robbie, Reese all got 1 ring as players. Reese got another as a coach in 59. Podres was considered part of the team in 1956 even though he did not pitch. Reese played on pennant winners in 41, 47, 49, 52, 53, 55, 56. Those seven give him the most in Dodger history. Hodges and Snider were on 6 pennant winning teams. Hodges got his 3rd ring as a manager,
Sadly my favorite Dodger “punching bag “- meant for sarcasm) is now .165 AVG, .240 OBP, .304 slugging, .49 OPS+, 84 strikeouts in 270 AB’s. Sit him down and play anyone who might provide a competitive AB. It’s nearly laughable if not shameful to see him trotted out each day to see the same thing time and time again.
CT3 hasn’t necessarily been red hot, but at least he can turn and run into a long ball once in awhile. Cody is nothing but a K or a weak oppo pop up it seems.
Attention: Dodger Brass,
Norcldodgerfan says you are a bunch of stupid idiots and he is coming for your jobs, because he knows better because… of course he does!
Forget the 107 exit velocity on Bellinger’s last out. It doesn’t count!
Funny how when others have a take you shame them, but yours is always on point but devoid of attribution. I probably shouldn’t assume this…. but I’m highly skeptical of your knowledge that Cody is working hard and is supported by the FO and Doc. You run an excellent Dodger blog and a water filtration system in Indiana and but don’t appear any closer to knowing anything about what is really happening than the other bloggers at LADT.
Label me a skeptic but I’m not sure at all you’re all that connected to the Dodger brass. Yes, we know you interviewed Logan White one time and went to a Dodger game while in the Press Box….it’s all been well chronicled here ad nauseam but your current day “inside knowledge” is sketchy. Have a take and don’t suck!
I don’t shame people who disagree with me. Lots of people do.
People who have no clue shame themselves.
You can think what you want about me.
I don’t care. I have no reason to make anything up. The Dodgers do nothing for me… well I do get the opportunity to buy tickets at face value.
On this debate, does it really matter who is connected and who isn’t.
Roberts is fairly well connected and him telling us that CB is working hard, whatever make zero difference.
He can’t hit. Full stop.
He doesn’t change his approach. Full stop.
Change my mind.
Still concerned with the anemic Dodgers’ offense after they jumped out to a five run lead. This type of thing is coming all too common.
Max is my man in a one game playoff!
They won. Most important thing. Bellinger scorched that last ball he hit. He also attempted a bunt. Still concerning is the lack of consistency in the offense. The pitchers they are facing the rest of the way are better than Mikolas is.
Didn’t see the game today but great news that he tried to bunt.
no sarcasm at all if it reads that way. He really needs to use the tool that he has that isn’t going away and that is his speed. If he can get them down, of course they won’t shift on him so drastically.
I honestly can’t see why this hasn’t been done since last season but I don’t have inside info.
In his first at bat, he tried to lay one down. Obviously has not done it in a while so he really did not get a good angle on it. He ended up flying out to left. Another improvement. His last at bat he hit a screaming line drive that was caught simply because the defense was in the shift. People can bash him all they want, but it is not going to change anything. And the problem is deepened because there is no one defensively his equal in the minors and the only hitter at AAA who is hitting worth spit is Beaty, who is no center fielder, and somewhat of a liability in the field. Again the problem is exacerbated by the fact that the entire offense right now is hitting on only a couple cylinders. I think it will be next year at least before we see anything that even resembles the 2020 version of Belli. Until all the strength in that shoulder returns, and he has a full spring and winter to work on his swing and mechanics, he will continue as he is. We know he is working hard because all the reports from the manager and coaches and even the announcers say he is. But mentally, I have to believe the kid has lost what ever confidence he did have.
A pitcher can scorch a ball now and then. Even I can scorch a ball now and then if you give me 300 plus at bats.
This is becoming laughable. The Belli defenders are reaching for every little excuse.
Fact is the man is overmatched at this point of his career. He is hitting below .170 now for the ENTIRE season.
Yes, his defense is still superb in CF and very good at 1b so I am willing to stay the course a little longer. But when the do or die games come around the Dodgers must think hard and long if they can afford to go with an almost automatic out even if a possible replacement would provide less defense.
Overall the offense sucks enough, again only 5 hits yesterday. Thanx to the Maximator we still won the game.
Damn Giants won again. Every game they find a different way to win. If their pitching is shaky they put up tons of runs and if the the offense sputters they get great pitching. And everything in the right combination on a given day.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!!!
One hit after the first inning. This offense is just so frustrating. They all just seem to go down for naps at the same time!
I doubt they are napping. And yes it is frustrating. But it has been going on for most of the season. What makes it doubly bad now is the fact that so many players are slumping, or at least not being consistent at the same time. It is rare for the bulk of a lineup to slump like that all at the same time. Here is a stat for you. Chris Taylor has struck out 152 times this season. In his entire career he has struck out 724 times. His K rate against his walks is almost 3-1. Yes, Chris gets some big hits. But the guy would be a .300 hitter if he made more contact. You can biotch about Belli all you like and this season it is warranted, but believe it or not Chris Taylor holds the all time K mark for a season in Dodger history with 178 in 2018. And he will get close to that if he plays every game the rest of the year. That is a wasted at bat plus every game of the year. Muncy is second on the team with 99. Smith, Turner, and Bellinger have all struck out over 80 times. All we can do is watch and wait and hope that a couple of them get really hot real quick. Trea is the only constant along with Seager right now. Smith is pretty consistent, but then will have a few bad games. Betts warming up would be a huge lift. They face a lefty in Happ tonight, then Wainwright, then Kim. Only Pujols and Betts have ever faced Happ.
Three tough customers coming up for the Dodgers and we will be forced to have 2 bullpen games in a row.
Not good.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!
They have actually done pretty well in bullpen games. And Mitch White is going to get bulk innings in one of them. Happ’s ERA is north of 6. Waino is always tough. You can bet Arenado will be back in the lineup for the Birds tonight. There is also a chance that Gonsolin is going to pitch on Thursday. The big guns will be out for the weekend against the Padres.
One bullpen game a week is okay, but two in a row ?
Happ is a lefty so you can throw out his ballooned ERA when it comes to the Dodgers.
Would be nice if Catman is ready to go.
I like it they called up Feliz for Vazquez. Feliz has been lights out at AAA and has also done well in his frist stint up.
Whit last pitched on Friday for 6 innings, so I would expect him for tomorrow.
Whoever pitches, offense has to finally pick up the pitching. They have averaged 3.5 runs over their last 20 games.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!
It’s a good thing the Dodgers won yesterday, or otherwise, a party would have been formed to lynch Cody Bellinger.
He gets to live another day.
… and by the way, on the final lineout Cody did cut down his swing (with 2 strikes), however, you see what you believe, Jason.