When the official statement came over at 10:48 a.m., it was simple and to the point:

The Los Angeles Dodgers, Guggenheim Baseball Management LLC (“GBM”) and Frank McCourt today announced the completion of the sale of the Dodgers to GBM for $2 billion. As previously reported, the Dodgers’ new ownership includes Mark Walter as control person, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and Stan Kasten as CEO of the organization.

The Los Angeles Dodgers stated, “The Dodgers emerge from the Chapter 11 reorganization process having achieved its objective of maximizing the value of the Dodgers through a successful Plan of Reorganization, under which all claims will be paid. The Dodgers move forward with confidence – in a strong financial position; as a premier Major League Baseball franchise; and as an integral part of and representative of the Los Angeles community.”

Later, Frank released a letter directed to team employees (from the LA Times):

“To my colleagues at the Los Angeles Dodgers,

“I am pleased to inform you that the Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged successfully from Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization. The sale to Guggenheim Baseball Partners has been completed, and the Dodgers move forward as a well capitalized organization, strong both on and off the field.

“This is how it should be for the Dodgers – one of the truly storied and best known franchises in not just baseball, but all of sports.

“I am grateful to have been part of the Dodger organization and to have had the pleasure of working with you. Despite the difficult environment of the last few years, we together can be proud of what we have achieved. We enjoyed tremendous success on the field.  In 2004, we won our first playoff game since 1988. We went to the playoffs four times over the next six years, including back-to-back National League Championship Series – a first for the Los Angeles Dodgers in over 30 years.  And we are off to one of the best starts in baseball in 2012.

“Off the field, we returned the organization to profitability. We grew the value of the franchise well beyond what anyone thought was possible. We made it a Dodger ongoing practice to give back to the Los Angeles community. Your hard work has been essential to all of this.

“I am confident that the new ownership, which will be introduced to you this morning at 10:30 a.m. in the Stadium Club, will carry forward the Dodger tradition, the Dodger commitment to community and the effort to make the team once again World Champions of baseball. I thank you all for working with me and for your dedication to and support of the Dodgers.

“With respect and affection, Frank”

Sure, there are opportunities to poke holes at Frank’s view of things – “we returned the team to profitability” and “we went to the playoffs four times in six years” (he actually owned the team for eight) – but I say it’s time to move on and put McCourt far in the rear view mirror.

It’s time for a new beginning, Dodger fans.  Time to put the past behind us and welcome in a new ownership group with open arms.  It’s time for Dodger baseball and I personally can’t wait for the celebration at 10 a.m. tomorrow when Mark Walter, Stan Kasten and Magic Johnson hold that news conference to introduce the next era of Los Angeles Dodgers history.  You deserve it, Dodger fans.  Enjoy!

Photo Credit: AP Photo/Carlos Delgado

Bill Shaikin at the LA Times reports that the sale is set to close on schedule this Monday, meaning the Dodgers should take the field on Monday night under the ownership of the guys from Guggenheim Baseball: Stan Kasten, Magic Johnson and Mark Walter.  What that means is that on Friday no one objected to the sale of the club in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for $2.15 billion.  Now it’s up to the lawyers to get the paperwork in order and make sure the Ts are crossed and the Is are dotted by the Monday deadline.

Now on to more important matters: What should Magic and the Guggenheim guys do in their first move as owners of the Los Angeles Dodgers?  Remember, this is largely a ceremonial move for the fans…something to show that they are one of us and that we’re going to have a first class fan experience at Dodger Stadium and bring a championship to LA.  It’s easy to talk the talk, but immediate actions speak volumes, and the Dodgers need to do something to show that Chavez Ravine is a great place for families to spend their time and money.  According to SB Nation, attendance at MLB games is up 4.1% (or an average of 1,161 people per game), yet according to Baseball Reference, attendance is down at Dodger Stadium by an average of 1,994 fans per game (through April 27).  And that’s just ticket sales - it doesn’t take into account fans that don’t show up, which has a cascading negative effect on stadium revenue when you take into account less parking and sales of concessions, merchandise, etc.

Across town, Arte Moreno’s status as a living legend was established when he lowered the price on beer in Anaheim.  I’m sure Joe Jareck, Amy Summers and the Dodgers PR department are all over this, but in the meantime, here are a few ideas from me to get families back to Chavez Ravine, given the unusual in-season sale of the club.  also, whatever the Dodgers do, they should implement it immediately and announce it at a press conference on Monday.  It’s time to jump start Chavez Ravine, and here’s how to do it:

1.) Lower the price to park at Dodger Stadium – Given the outgoing owner, lowering parking prices significantly for the first season seems like a no-brainer as it’s a subtle jab at Frank McCourt and also addresses one of the primary pain points of the fans.  Heck, the new owners could even add free parking during the first homestand to pack the place during the celebration.  If I’m a family considering whether or not to go to Dodger Stadium for a game, this could be exactly what I need.

2.) Discounted Dodger Dogs - Nothing kicks off a party like free Dodger Dogs, right?  I’d even consider dropping the price to 99 cents per dog for the rest of the season.  Plus it’s a less expensive option than parking.

3.) Lowering Ticket Prices – The Dodgers are off to a great start, but the fans haven’t truly come back.  Lowering ticket prices to some degree (maybe when buying tickets of four or more you get a certain percentage discount), you give another incentive to families and groups of friends to come back, while reminding them of the good times at Chavez Ravine.

Those are just a few ideas from me…what would you like to see the new owners do for the fans?  Let’s hear some good ideas!

Under the Summary, Javy states “Earned everything I have today, Self Driven and Successful.“  Ok, Javy is motivated and a self-starter.  I like those qualities in people I do business with.  So far, so good.

In the Experience section, Javy’s a little redundant and lists his job a few different ways, including “Current Bullpen Pitcher/Player For the Los Angeles Dodgers (#54).”  Good, but would recommend to Javy that he break this up a bit, and show his progression through the minors and majors as seperate “jobs”, capturing all of his promotions along the way and giving those reading his profile a look into his career progression.

Oops, I spoke too soon.  Under Honors and Awards, he writes “Closer 11′.” Excellent – Javy is promoting his strengths (although he needs to update this to include 2012 as well).

Under Skills & Expertise, Javy lists that he’s “good under pressure.”  While some Dodger fans may disagree based on recent performances, I like this.  Javy appears as a confident guy.  I’d do business with him.

Javy also comes across as someone that knows what he wants out of life (although I question how much he values a good education) when he writes “Drafted out of HS (4th round) 2004.  Turned down a Full scholarship to the University of Arizona.”

He’s also curious about business: “Always wondered how the otherside works...”

So now we have some good insight into what makes Javy, Javy.  But we still don’t really know why Javy is on LinkedIn, other than a curiosity about “the other side.”  Now as all LinkedIn users will know, there’s one last box at the bottom where you can bullet out what people can contact you for.

Interestingly, Javy says he’s open to “career opportunities,” “consulting offers,” “new ventures,” “job inquiries,” “expertise requests,” “business deals,” “reference requests” and “getting back in touch.”

Red alert!  Someone better get on the horn immediately to Ned Colletti and Don Mattingly and let them know their closer is soliciting career opportunities and job inquiries!  Is this because Stan and Magic are coming in as new owners?  Having a new boss can sometimes be stressful to employees.  In the meantime, Javy, maybe you can join the dodgerfan.net team as a consultant!  We have an excellent benefits package including great couches, cold beer, multiple TVs and offices in Los Angeles, Scottsdale and Seattle.

Think about it Javy…and hit me up on LinkedIn.  I’ll await your reply.

Photo Credit: Jon SooHoo / Los Angeles Dodgers 2012

Sure, Kemp has made a few questionable decisions this season (he had a couple of base running and fielding issues last night), but the guy has been lights out at the plate and generally in the field, driving in 23 RBI with a .449 AVG, a .513 OBP and a .942 slugging percentage.  That prediction of 50 home runs doesn’t seem so far fetched right about now (no comment on the 50 SB prediction), but regardless, Kemp is clearly playing like the best player in baseball and he’s a joy for Dodger fans to watch night in and night out.

And from Jon Weisman I learned that Ted Lilly has taken over the major-league ERA lead at 0.90…not bad for the old man!

Now for the bad news: Unfortunately for the Dodgers, the team blew a 2-1 lead in the 9th against the Braves when Javy Guerra gave up what seemed like an endless stream of hits (it was five) after getting smashed in the jaw with a line drive.  You’ve got to wonder about Mattingly’s decision to leave Guerra in the game after the jaw shot, but to be fair the guy did look good to go on TV.  Can’t say I would have acted differently than Mattingly.

Anyway, this all led to a 4-2 loss, dropping the Dodgers to 13-6 on the season…but hey, they still lead the NL West, right?

Photo Credit: Jon SooHoo/Los Angeles Dodgers 2012

In honor of Dodger Stadium organist Nancy Bea Hefley’s 25th anniversary (she’s throwing out the first pitch tonight!), I’m re-posting my article on the evening I spent with Nancy in 2010. Sweet, witty and a diehard Dodgers fan, she’s a true treasure of the Dodger organization.  Happy anniversary, Nancy!

For Dodgers organist Nancy Bea Hefley, it all comes down to family – both her own, as well as her Dodger family here at Chavez Ravine.

After all, what else would compel Nancy and her husband Bill to spend three hours each day completing the round trip drive from their in-season home near Lake Arrowhead to Dodger Stadium?  She’s battled snow and fog to make it to nearly every home game in 2010, and every year, in her 22+ year career as the official organist of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

“She is the Dodgers to most people,” said Nancy’s sound engineer, Patrick Sweeney. “She’s very well respected.  When people from other ballparks come here, they go over [to see Nancy].  It’s very special and unique.”

In fact, two hours before the game on the night I visited, Nancy Bea, as she’s known to Dodger fans everywhere, was at her usual spot in the dining room of the Vin Scully Press Box, having dinner with her husband Bill and an old friend from the broadcasting team for the New York Mets.

As she makes the short walk over to her famous corner of the press box before the start of the game, the parade of visitors and well-wishers begins.

Former Dodger and current Fox broadcaster Eric Karros stops by to say hello. “Nancy, how are you?” he says as he extends a hand over her organ, while also offering her a piece of candy.

Dodger legend Manny Mota arrives with a huge smile.  “I’m her number one fan,” he tells me sincerely.

Broadcaster Steve Lyons stops by and sings along to Nancy’s rendition of ‘Food Glorious Food.’

“I feel so lucky, because I’m right next to her every game,” said Sweeney.  “She’s kind of like my West Coast mom….but also like a best friend.  Just wonderful to be around.”

Team employees, security staff, members of the media and VIP fans constantly swing by Nancy’s organ throughout the game to meet Nancy, take pictures or simply chat about the ups and downs of life.  It goes both ways.  They know about Nancy, and she knows all about their lives outside the stadium.

“As you can see, this is kind of a meeting place.  It goes on like this all night,” said Nancy. “That’s why I stay.”

Nancy Bea Hefley must be considered the Ironwoman of professional organists.  Over the course of the 22 and a half years that Nancy has been playing at Chavez Ravine, she’s missed exactly eight games out of more than 1,800…and only one of those was for being sick.  For the record, two of her absences were so she could attend graduation ceremonies for her granddaughters, one was so the Dodgers could train a replacement in case she ever became sick (she still played the organ that night…just at the MTV Rock & Jock Basketball Game) and the remaining four were while she was on a family trip to Iowa.  But did I mention that she still managed to play a four-game stint with the Iowa Cubs while on that same vacation?

By my count, as of Sunday, July 25, 2010, Nancy Bea Hefley has played the National Anthem and ‘Take Me Out to the Ballgame’ exactly 1,851 times at Dodger Stadium (she has also played ‘Don’t Stop Believin’ exactly once) .  These totals include all home playoff games since 1988, as well as the World Baseball Classic finals.  Of course, it does not include the daily rehearsals with the Anthem singers (sometimes twice) and the countless times over several decades she has performed the National Anthem at horse shows across the country.  According to my math, Nancy Bea will have her 2,000th public performance of both songs at Dodger Stadium during her 25^th season with the club on or about June 25, 2012 (give or take a few days for future playoff games).   Needless to say, Nancy Bea Hefley truly loves playing the organ.

The Early Years

Nancy’s love for music began when she was just four years old.  She would listen to her 17 year-old sister play the piano and, even at that young age, she could pick out what she was playing.  Her mother convinced a music teacher at their church to give her piano lessons, despite the teacher’s concerns about her young age.  “He discovered that I had perfect pitch,” said Nancy.  “After about six months, he said, ‘I can’t go any farther with her.’”

At the age of seven, Nancy’s mother introduced her daughter to the accordion and she learned to play classical music with it, despite the fact that the instrument was far too big for her.

“I went on with the accordion and became a concert accordionist…and worked Vegas, Tahoe and television.”

But she never gave up on the piano – and was always intrigued by the organ.  “At 13, I talked my piano teacher into at least showing me the basics of the organ.  So I had about six lessons that way.  And that’s my organ [training].”

At 17, she substituted for a friend who was scheduled to play the accordion at a pageant at the Orange County Fair.  While there, the organizer asked her to also try her hand at a neglected organ.  She never looked back.  Nancy went on to play the organ at festivals and horse shoes across the country, including more than 30 years at the Pomona Fair.

But Nancy soon discovered that her musical skills were in demand at places other than horse shows – she was also becoming popular with the local sports teams in Los Angeles.

“I had substituted for the Angels back in 1986.  They spoke to me about taking the job, and I said ‘No, I substituted for a friend.  I won’t take a job away from a friend.’”

Nancy’s husband Bill also stated the Dodgers also had their eye on Nancy in the early years.  “Tommy John tried to get her.  When he was playing, we ran around with Tommy and Sally and [they] tried to get her to do it then.  She said no, I won’t take anybody’s job.”

But things changed in 1987 when then Dodger organist Helen Dell announced she was retiring at the end of the season. “Then I felt comfortable,” said Nancy.  “So I called, and it was at the end of the season…they had auditioned all year ‘round, I guess.  And they said, ‘Come on in and play.’ I played and they said, ‘We definitely want a comeback.’  February 14, 1988, [the Dodgers] played an exhibition game with USC.  There were three of us that played three innings each and they called me that night and said I had the job.  I never thought I’d last this long.  I didn’t think I’d like to play for a baseball game every night.  Helen was here 15 years, and I thought, ‘Boy, I’d be doing good to get that far.’ This is my 23rd, and I’ve got a contract for two more years after this.”

Nancy and Bill

As you might imagine, Nancy and her husband met over music.  At 16, Nancy was called one Sunday morning by the Bellflower Baptist Church, as they were in urgent need of an organist, as their regular organist was sick.

“Well it wasn’t a church that I attended, so I didn’t know how fast they sang the songs or anything.  I ended up staying there, and that’s where we met.”  Nancy ended up playing the organ at Bellflower Baptist, and a few other churches, for more than 55 years.

From then on, Bill has been a constant at Nancy’s side and attends every game with his wife.  “I’m her driver,” said Bill.

“It’s 24/7 with us,” said Nancy. “We’ve been together 53 years now.”

The Dodgers have always been an important part of Bill and Nancy’s life…long before she joined the organization as the official organist.

Bill, a retired steelworker, was involved in the construction of Dodger Stadium, and Nancy was his source for tickets.

“When [the Dodgers] first came to down, I was working for KBIG Radio in Hollywood,” said Nancy. “I would give Bill tickets to the Coliseum to go watch the games.  I wasn’t a baseball fan then.  I was into music.”

But Bill certainly was.  “I was there when Drysdale struck out 18 Giants,” he said.  “I was there the night they honored Campanella.  I went to a lot of games at the Coliseum.”

When she first joined the Dodgers, Nancy played all nine innings of every game.  But that changed in 2004 when a new executive was brought in to run the in-game entertainment.  Nancy found herself only playing the National Anthem and ‘Take Me Out to the Ballgame.’  She wasn’t happy.  “We sold our place here, and bought land in Northern Nevada.  I gave notice Opening Day [2005].”  She planned to retire at the conclusion of the 2005 season.

“Drew McCourt then called me and said, ‘Why?  What can we do?’”  A new schedule was put in place that allowed her to play between select innings and continue to leave after the seventh inning.  Happy once again, Nancy rescinded her request to retire.

The Magic of Music

Besides her extraordinary tenure with the club, what Nancy is most known for is the clever way her song choice reflects the action on the field and in the broadcast booth.  Incredibly, Nancy knows more than 2,000 songs, does not bring any music with her to the stadium and does not pre-plan what she will play on any given night.

“I fly by the seat of my pants,” said Nancy.  “I don’t have anything planned, I don’t have any music.  I know probably my first song and maybe the one after that.”

On the night I visited, I spoke to several Dodger ticket holders about the impact of Nancy’s organ music on the overall game experience.

“She seems to be keyed on the play, so when the action happens, she can hype the fans or bring them down.  She gets everyone going,” said John from West Hills, CA. “I think it help gets the team up, it gets the fans up, it gets everyone going.  It’s that added thrill about coming to the ballpark.”

Cathy from Oxnard added, “She (Hefley) can feel the vibes of the crowd and play that in where you can’t do that with CDs.  It’s the live interaction with the crowd…whether it’s cheering up, or making everyone get to their feet.”

“The first year [the Dodgers] said they wanted me to come with a list of what I was going to play,” said Nancy.  “I opened that up and started to play and then [the team] did something really rotten on the field and I was going to play ‘It’s a Happy Day.’  No, I don’t think so.  So from then, I go with the flow.  Things usually will trigger a song in my head and that’s how it happens.”

Nancy continued, “One time when Hu was on first base, I was walking to the restroom and I heard Vinny [Scully] say, ‘I wonder if in her vast repertoire, Nancy Bea happens to know the song ‘Who.’”  So I’m thinking, wow, how does that go? So I sang it to myself as I came back and the next chance I had, I played it.”

But Nancy’s musical powers can also be used to send a message.  “We had a pitcher from Ohio one time and he couldn’t even go a third of an inning…he could not get a batter out.  They finally pulled him, so I played ‘Why Oh Why Did I Ever Leave Ohio?’  That’s probably the worst thing I’ve ever done.”

Nancy has also made some songs famous at the ballpark.  In 1988 in the Dodger Stadium parking lot, Nancy ran into the general manager for the old Shubert Theatre, and he arranged for her to attend a performance of Les Miserables, which is where she first heard the song ‘Master of the House.’

“I learned it, thinking that I would play it for the umps when they’re introduced, because they’re in control of the game,” said Nancy.  “Vinny came out of the booth…he was so excited.  He started making it Orel Hershiser’s theme song.  And to this day, when Orel is here, I’ll play it for him.  Last time he was here he thanked me for playing it the time before.  I said, ‘You’re getting it again tonight, because I don’t get to play it that often as everyone looks to see where you are!’”

When Friday night’s game started to get away from the Dodgers in the eighth inning, Nancy Bea stepped in.  With Jeff Weaver struggling and Joe Torre heading to the mound for a conference, Hefley immediately started playing ‘Just a Little Help from my Friends.’  Shortly thereafter, Weaver was replaced by James McDonald.  Hefley responds with ‘A Handy Man.’ “Hopefully he will be,” said Hefley.  Unfortunately for the Dodgers, McDonald wasn’t, giving up a sacrifice fly to David Wright.  Eventually McDonald was replaced by Jack Taschner.  Silently noting to herself that he was making his Dodger debut, Hefley responds with ‘Consider Yourself One of the Family’ from the Broadway musical ‘Oliver.’

Nancy truly loves coming to Chavez Ravine each day, and it shows.  Not only is it a way for her to spend time with her husband Bill, but with her extended Dodger family as well.  “I really come here for the fun atmosphere…I don’t come her to work,” said Nancy.  “I just come to see people and talk.  The work is just a sideline.”

Earlier this season, Vin Scully noted to National Public Radio, “I’ve just enjoyed her and Bill. I’m so thrilled for their anniversary the other day.  She’s a very classy, lovely lady and I’m delighted to take a minute to join all of the others and doff our caps and roll the drums and blare the bugles and salute her, because she’s a sweetheart.”

When the game was finally over and the Mets had beaten the Dodgers 6-1, Nancy Bea Hefley wrapped up the evening with two songs ‘We Had Joy, We Had Fun’ and ‘Forget Tomorrow.’  While the players will most likely want to forget Friday’s game, Dodger fans will never forget what Nancy Bea Hefley brings to the ballpark each day.  With just a few full-time organists remaining in Major League Baseball, Nancy Bea Hefley is indeed a Los Angeles treasure.  A great piece of music is often made up of several parts, and the same can be said at Dodger Stadium, with Nancy Bea Hefley, Vin Scully and the team on the field.  So many fans appreciate and recognize the subtlety and nuances of Nancy’s music during the game.  She truly provides the soundtrack for the season – and hopefully many seasons to come.

Photo Credit: Jon SooHoo

Somebody pinch me…quick. Did that really happen?  Is the Wicked Witch of Los Angeles really dead?  Twitter nearly exploded with euphoria from Dodger fans at about 8 p.m. on Tuesday night when it was revealed that Magic Johnson’s group (comprised of Magic, baseball executive Stan Kasten, money man Mark Walter of financial services firm Guggenheim Partners and Hollywood executive Peter Gruber) was selected by Frank McCourt as the new owners of the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2 billion – a staggering fee.

And what about those parking lots that Dodger fans have been worrying about?  Turns out the land around the stadium was also part of the deal, with Frank McCourt coming along as a (wait for it) silent partner.

Magic released a statement through the Dodgers Tuesday night: “I am thrilled to be part of the historic Dodger franchise and intend to build on the fantastic foundation laid by Frank McCourt as we drive the Dodgers back to the front page of the sports section in our wonderful community of Los Angeles.”

Ok, now what? I find it hard to believe this group bid such an astronomical sum (the most any North American sports franchise has ever sold for) and doesn’t plan on building a dynasty that will compete right out of the gate and for years to come.  We all know Magic’s a winner, and the fans in LA will expect nothing else now.

Think about it: the new Dodger owners have exceptionally deep pockets through the Guggenheim Group, a seasoned baseball man (Kasten was the longtime president of the Atlanta Braves and also the Washington Nationals) and an LA sports legend in Magic Johnson who also is a phenomenally successful businessman.  Does it get better than that?  Kasten and Magic should have the resources to put together a monster team around Kershaw, Kemp and Mattingly.

And in the battle of LA, Magic Johnson trumps Albert Pujols.  It’s time for Dodger baseball!

Photo Credit: sojones.com

On the eve of Spring Training for the Dodgers. I thought it would be fun to check in on some of the 2011 Dodger players that departed Chavez Ravine for (hopefully) greener pastures in 2012.  As you will see, some of our old friends are embarking on new chapters, some are being reunited with old friends, while others are struggling to secure roster spots and keep their major league careers going:

Tom Singer from MLB.com takes a look at the new Pirates’ battery of A.J. Burnett and Rod Barajas, and why Barajas is thrilled to be reunited with his 2008 Toronto teammate.

Patrick Saunders and Troy Renck from the Denver Post touch on Casey Blake’s challenge in holding down third base for the Rockies.

The Associated Press looks at Jonathan Broxton’s new beginning in Kansas City as the set-up man to closer Joakim Soria, and why the Royals were the former closer’s first choice.

Jamey Carroll talks with Tyler Mason from FS North about being the Twins new starting shortstop at 38 years old.

Matthew Leach from MLB.com examines Rafael Furcal’s battle to show his power and ability to consistantly get on base for the Cardinals at 35 years old.

Paul Hoynes from The Plain Dealer states that Jon Garland’s physical with the Cleveland Indians didn’t happen today as planned, which is significant as the pitcher’s minor league contract is contingent on him passing the examination.

Larry Larue at the News Tribune examines the complexities of new Mariner reliever Hong-Chih Kuo.

Bryan Hoch talks with Russell Martin and Hiroki Kuroda about Kuroda’s transition to the Yankees, and how it compares to Kuroda’s arrival in Los Angeles from Japan.

Alex Speier from WEEI Sports Radio reports on Vicente Padilla’s legal challenges as he attempts to get to Spring Training on time to compete for a roster spo with the Red Sox.

Photo Credit: Jon SooHoo/ Los Angeles Dodgers 2011 

If you’re not already aware, SooHoo has been blogging all off-season, each day posting one photo and anecdote from his 27-year career with the Dodgers.  It’s a remarkable collection and a real treat for baseball fans everywhere.  Every shot either brings back old memories or gives you a fresh perspective of the life of a major league baseball team.  Best of all, Jon truly humanizes the people involved.  In today’s world it’s easy to get jaded and cynical when following a professional sports team, but Jon’s images show us a depth of emotion that you don’t normally see, and that’s due to the fact that he’s earned the trust of the players and coaching staff alike.

I can only imaginehow hard it is to shoot professional baseball, day in and day out, and keep the content fresh and compelling.  Somehow, Jon continues to surprise us.

I found it hard to pick just one shot to feature here, but the following photo just left me saying, “wow.”  It’s one of the most beautiful shots of Dodger Stadium that I’ve ever seen.  Here’s how Jon describes it:

“This image has always been one of my favorites. I was looking for something different to shoot on this Fireworks Night in 2004 other than the obvious fireworks. As the fireworks were blowing off, the bright colors that were emitted beyond the pavillions were lighting the stadium with a wonderful glow all the way up the elevator tower. With my Canon EOS MarkII camera and 14mm mounted on a tripod, I found this angle and lowered down to include the mound.  As the show went on longer, smoke started blowing over the stadium seating area which happened to add to the image.”   

I seriously can’t wait for his Spring Training shots to start being posted.  If you can’t be at Camelback Ranch in person, there’s no better way to visually experience the magic of Dodger baseball.

Photo Credit:  © Jon SooHoo/Los Angeles Dodgers

Who would have thought when November first began that Dodger fans would have so much to be thankful for?  It all began on November 2nd, when Frank McCourt agreed to sell the Dodgers.  On Nove,ber 17, Clayton Kershaw won the National League Cy Young Award.  Then, seemingly out of nowhere, Matt Kemp signed an eight year, $160 milion deal on November 18. Really, can it get much better than that that?  Absolutely.  Tomorrow the National league MVP Award will be given out, and if Dodger fans had their way, it would go to Matt Kemp.

That would be 20 days of baseball euphoria in Los Angeles.  I honestly am having a hard time finding something to compare it to.  Here we have a down-on-it’s-luck franchise, getting the ultimate gift when a despised owner agrees to sell the city’s beloved franchise, followed quickly by it’s young phenom pitcher receiving the highest award possible, followed by their charismatic and unbelievably talented young outfielder signing a lucrative extension and proclaiming his desire to be a Dodger for life.  It kind of makes you think Matt Kemp is due the MVP doesn’t it?

I so want Matt Kemp to be the MVP.  I want it for him because he had one of best all-around seasons for any baseball player in decades.  I want it for him because he played hard everyday on an average team.  I want it for him because he played the game the way it’s meant to be played: with hard work, class and a fantastic attitude.  But mostly, I want it for Dodger fans…for their support, passion and believe in this club.

But whether or not Matt wins the MVP, I’m thankful.  Thankful that the Dodger organization has turned a corner and that hope is once again on the horizon.  A new owner will soon be in place and we’ll have the opportunity to see Kershaw, Kemp and the others for years to come.

As a baseball fan, you really can’t ask for much more than that.

KeMVP, baby.

Photo credit: Jon SooHoo / 2011 LA Dodgers

As a blogger, I’m ecstatic.  I didn’t start this blog four years ago to write about the Dodger owners, but rather, the game, the players, the deals and the rumors. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to find myself sitting in LA Superior Court watching the McCourt divorce trial. But you know what? I learned a lot, and I discovered some great writers along the way (Josh Fisher and Molly Knight, to name two).

Given the pace of the legal proceedings over the past two years (to say nothing of Frank’s ongoing insistance that he would never, ever sell), I certainly wasn’t expecting such a decisive decision quite so quickly. But there it was: the Dodgers would have a new owner – and soon.

I won’t waste such a joyous moment as this to recount the McCourt Era in Los Angeles. Instead, this is a time to do what baseball fans do best: spend the off-season speculating about how best to improve their favorite team. Dodger fans will do one better: weighing the pros and cons of who the best owner will be, whether it’s Marc Cuban, Steve Garvey and Orel Hershiser, Dennis Gilbert or even Peter O’Malley.  The options are plentiful (hey, what about Vin Scully? I kid, I kid…), but you know Bud Selig is going to do right by Dodger fans this time around.

Rejoice Dodger fans – you’ve earned it.

Here are a few links to some of our favorite coverage over the past 24 hours:

- The great Bill Shaikin at the LA Times breaks the news Peter O’Malley is throwing his hat in to the bidders’ ring

- Mike Scioscia’s Tragic Illness looks at Ownerpalooza in LA

- Ramona Shelbourne at ESPNLA breaks down the odds of the current contenders

- The New York Times discusses the revived hopes and dreams of Dodger fans