The Trolley Dodger

Normally I’m not a big fan of the bobblehead commericals, but this one is actually really cute:

From the Bread and Circuses Department (Fiddling While Rome Burns edition), foodie Andre Ethier demonstrates proper Dodger Dog grilling technique:

Grilling is the only way to go for Dodger Dogs, although I prefer mustard, ketchup, and onions myself.

I don’t know if “it’s time for head games,” but somebody needs their head examined:

Asked whether the composition of the team is a reflection of the organization’s economic troubles, McCourt replied, “No.”

So, even if everything were OK, this is the kind of team you would field?

“Yeah, I think we have a very, very good team,” said McCourt, who took out a personal loan to meet last month’s payroll obligation.

[...]

McCourt said he is “very pleased” with how the Dodgers are performing on the field.

Lincecum gets all the cool commercials.

The punch line of course is that the gangster gets a hit at the end and wins the game. ;)

Via Big League Stew

Made it out for the Inland Empire 66ers opening night this past Thursday. The park and food improvements made since the team re-affiliated with the Dodgers a few years back continue, and despite a small increase in various prices ($4 parking, versus $3; $10 for best seats, versus $9) still represents a fairly good value if you’re looking for cheap entertainment. Food prices are steep, but that’s true of anywhere sports or movie related, I suppose.

Also, they’ve really got to replace the scoreboard and monochromatic video screen someday soon — it looks like a large version of an old Gameboy. In fact, their newer advertising video screen out by the freeway is way better than the one in the park. It does, however, have a certain quaint charm, not unlike an Amish buggy. ;)

The Sixers wound up losing despite some great pitching from the awesomely named Alberto Bastardo, who has been with the team for at least a couple of years. Got to see Preston Mattingly for the first time, not to mention catcher Kenley Jansen, who looks even bigger in person than he did during the World Baseball Classic for the Netherlands.

Not a great game for the team otherwise, but it was still fun to finally be at a ballpark. Looking forward to being at one during the warmer months. And hey, at least it didn’t get rained out like a couple of years ago. ;)

First Dodger Dog of the year — definitely better grilled, of course, but it was a happy moment nonetheless.

Don Mattingly’s son, formerly an infielder. He’s been struggling at the plate I understand. Good to know left field is also protected by the US Border Patrol. I noticed the "Dodgertown Inland Empire," which I guess is the new theme of having several Dodgertowns around (LA, IE, Camelback AZ, etc.) instead of just the one. Sorry for the blurriness — camera on extreme zoom.

Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs & Roasted Corn. My stepson Hans reacting to the foodstuff available. We haven’t tried those yet, but I hear they’re crazy good. Perhaps they’re just crazy. ;)

This is the 66ers’ mascot Bernie, who has a very funny act. Kids love him, as do most of the adults. Good crowd rapport, plus funny shtick with the umpires.

Bernie and handlers advertising the Dodger blanket giveaway the next night. With the weather forecast I read, they would probably need it!

About half the size as previously, but now free.