Ronald Belisario gave his first interview of spring training on Wednesday and even though he was nearly as elusive in person as he was while away all of last year, the relief pitcher dropped a bombshell. Belisario said he tested positive for cocaine, though he couldn't exactly remember when the test was administered.
The cocaine test is the reason Belisario was suspended by MLB for 25 games to start this season.
Asked if the positive cocaine test was the reason he couldn't get a visa in 2011, Belisario said he didn't know, a familiar response throughout the interview. The one thing Belisario was clear about was that he only used cocaine one time, and that he doesn't have a problem with any drugs.
Belisario said he did not undergo any treatment for his cocaine use, nor was cocaine use the reason for his treatment program in July 2010 that caused him to miss a month. In fact, Belisario wouldn't reveal exactly what that treatment program was for, only that it wasn't cocaine.
"That is in the past. I don't want to talk about it" Belisario said. "All of this is completely behind me."
The reliever arrived in the United States this year on January 23, the first time in four years he has showed up to spring training on time. Belisario played winter ball in Venezuela, but during the 2011 season he said he didn't follow the Dodgers much. During the summer of 2011 Belisario pitched semi-pro baseball in Venezuela, though when asked why he didn't pitch in the Venezuelan summer league the pitcher replied, "Because nobody told me about it."
Now back with the Dodgers, the mercurial Belisario is ready to move forward. "I'm so excited to be here. I was waiting for this moment when I was home," he said. The first game Belisario is able to pitch for the Dodgers during the regular season is May 4.
"It's not like he's a bad guy, or you don't like him," manager Don Mattingly said of Belisario on Tuesday. "But to this point he's been tough to count on."
Belisario said he switched agents in November, dumping Paul Kinzer for Rick Oliver, because of a lack of communication. But after just 10 minutes with the reliever, I would bet the communication problems between Belisario and his agent weren't all one-sided.
0 recs | 307 comments
The Belisario news overshadowed the good news of the morning, which was that Rubby De La Rosa said he feels no pain or discomfort at all, and that he is throwing off flat ground now (easy intensity) with no setbacks.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Which is great news.
DodgerofTrolleys - February 22, 2012
That is great news. Is it realistic to expect him to return in some capacity this year (perhaps relief) and then be a factor in the 2013 rotation? Even then, his innings would be limited.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
Yes.
David Young - February 22, 2012
He could be such an ace in the hole if the Dodgers are still in it come August!
latenite - February 22, 2012
Very bizarre to say the least
The comments about not following the Dodgers and not knowing about Venezuelan summer ball are particularly strange.
BFDC - February 22, 2012
Cocaine’s a hell of a drug
Tommy Blackjack - February 22, 2012 via iPhone app
yes it is, fun, but the fun ends when it runs out and you cant fall asleep for shit.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
btw
I rarely believe anyone when they say they’ve done something “once.” I’m guessing this guy has exactly one more chance with us, if that.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
I only rosterbated once
Dodgers1981 - February 22, 2012
It is the pregnant Catholic girl’s story.
David Young - February 22, 2012
everywhere I want to go from here will upset someone
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
shoot for the moon
nolander - February 22, 2012
I did believe
Danny Vermin when he said people did things “once. Once!”
David Young - February 22, 2012
My grandmother hung me from a hook once.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Once
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
LOL
Michael White - February 22, 2012
Hehe.
DodgerofTrolleys - February 22, 2012
I would not waste any time with this guy, simply release him.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
If he does fine this season, then let him do fine, if not, trade him.
DodgerofTrolleys - February 22, 2012
Yup, it’s no real loss.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
Why? The Dodgers probably know a lot more of the details about all this and seem to be comfortable having him around, at least for now.
BFDC - February 22, 2012
Yeah, I don’t get the desire to just release him. He’ll be minor league depth and then if he sucks, release him.
OB12 - February 22, 2012
No options remaining
Michael White - February 22, 2012
I doubt anyone would blow a 40 man spot on him.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
Pun Intended?
I don’t know, where there’s little risk (you can just cut him if he’s a problem) I could see a team taking a gamble based on talent alone. “Change of scenery, people change, blah blah blah.”
Michael White - February 22, 2012
Sure, why not :)
Putting Bellisario on the 40 man means someone has to go because of him, and I just don’t see the demand for a reliever that was last good in 2009 with a ton of baggage.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
Seems like he’s going to waste our time. I could be over reacting, but that interview along with four years of irritating behavior bothers me at every level. From the lying about the one time use, the inability to acknowledge he had or has a drug problem, the fact he did not try to pitch at the highest level while on hiatus. The general ignorance. This guys talent level is not worth hanging with our young pitchers. He’s an idiot.
BFDC says the Dodgers know the details and are comfortable with him. Okay, not like Dodger management ever made a mistake so I guess I should simply give them a pass on this one. Maybe he will be functional, just not a fan of non – communicational fuckups. He has a history, let someone build on that history, we don’t need him. At best he’s the last pitcher in our bullpen. Bah
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Steve Howe flashback?
Tommy Blackjack - February 22, 2012 via iPhone app
Hey he did try, he was just really, really bad at it.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
If he sucks he’ll be released. If he doesn’t suck, he won’t be the last pitcher in the pen. I mean Troncoso is still on the 40-man, so…
BFDC - February 22, 2012
I hear that’s how Monica Lewinsky got hired
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
yeah I agree. You never have enough pitching. Seems like there is more then enough innings in ST to see what he can do at this point, if he still has it cool, if he doesnt, cut his ass.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
yeah im not sure how its wasting time on him, if we had time to give Gagne another try, I guess we have time for anyone.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Yeah, that is comparable. Wasting time on the one time face of the team, who was solely responsible for bringing excitement to the team in 2003, compared to a guy who has done everything in his power NOT to help the team in 2011. Fuck him
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Kinda angry over something unimportant no? Everyone makes mistakes, especially at a young age.
Table - February 22, 2012
Belisario is 29….
Michael White - February 22, 2012
Ok…that’s older than I thought, but still
Table - February 22, 2012
Yeah, you are right he does not have a history of ten years of being an idiot. This was his only mistake.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Why does being an idiot matter in baseball though? I might think Luke Scott is an idiot for thinking Obama is not American, doesn’t mean I can’t have him on my baseball team
Table - February 22, 2012
If you want to compare an action of behavior that cost him 30 days in 2010, a full year in 2011, being released by the Pirates, to someone’s political view, feel free but I don’t see a connection.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Ok well then how is taking a risk on Belisario different from taking a risk on an injury prone player? Both have histories of missing time and being someone you can’t rely on, but both might have talent and be worth a calculated risk.
Table - February 22, 2012
why would a team take on an injury prone player with him taking a serious pay cut?
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
without him taking a pay cut you mean?
Table - February 22, 2012
obviously
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
I am still missing your point, how is Belisario’s salary relevant? He has not reached arbitration yet
Table - February 22, 2012
I’m gonna go get coffee, maybe take a walk in the park
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
The guy now has a history of three straight years of off the field trouble
It’s not an isolated incident. Maybe he’ll get his act together and pitch great again, but can you blame people if they don’t trust hm. It’s a long series of eff-ups, not just one, and also he clearly did not just try cocaine once, which means, gosh, maybe he’ll eff up and try it again? I mean, other than HIS history and the rest of history, gosh, there’s nothing to go by here.
underdog - February 22, 2012
Hong Chi Kuo had a long track record of unreliability too
Table - February 22, 2012
Don’t think that did not irritate the fuck out of me.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
The fact is, you don’t want Belisario for personal reasons, not because he’s not worth the risk
Table - February 22, 2012
Is he worth the risk? Was his ‘09 that much better than Lindblom’s ’11?
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Okay, I don’t like perpetual fuckups around my young pitchers whose upside is negligible.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
off the field unreliability?
Yes, he had his super erratic moments on the field, but he did not have DUIs, Visa issues, drug/cocaine history.
underdog - February 22, 2012
It seems like you don’t want Belisario for personal reasons, that’s why I compared him to Scott
Table - February 22, 2012
Personal reasons?
All I see is that Phil doesn’t believe in 4th chances.
David Young - February 22, 2012
The past is the past, whats important is now. He showed up early, says he is clean now which IMO is a good thing. He has talent so I see zero harm in giving the guy basically a month and a half to prove himself, or he probably does get cut.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Yeah Yeah Yeah, people change, blah blah blah
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Belisario does not have to change, he just hast to repeat 2009
Table - February 22, 2012
that doesn't make any sense...?
He has to change, by not being a totally unreliable screw up. 2009 seems like the anomaly, not the other way around, sadly.
underdog - February 22, 2012
Belisario as constituted from from 1982-2011 was capable of being a good baseball player, as shown in 2009. He does not have to become a born again christian in order for him to be worth something. If he shows something in spring training, there is no good reason not to give him about 450 K. Personal changes or not.
Table - February 22, 2012
Would loved to have seen him pitching in the major leagues at 11 years old
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Doogie
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
You move your roster around, you are making a commitment. You’d like to have faith that that commitment is well-placed. Belisario has failed many times, so I can’t blame people for having serious doubts now.
No one is saying he has to be a “born again christian”, now you are hyperbolizing.
David Young - February 22, 2012
Wow, you mean somebody is hyperbolizing on TBLA? That’s rarer than cocaine use when musicians and prostitutes intersect.
Pure Azure - February 22, 2012
It was unusual in using the “born again Christian” argument. That might be a first here.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
That’s just because Tebow is the catch-all signifier for “goody two-shoes”.
Pure Azure - February 22, 2012
Is Tebow born-again? I believe he is evangelical from the getgo. I know everybody loves a redemption story, but I prefer people that don’t screw up in the first place.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
I don’t know anyone on that block
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Cute. But I prefer Tim Tebow to Josh Hamilton.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Well, I’m glad we have you as moral high-guardian.
Pure Azure - February 22, 2012
we just dont know about Tebows screw ups yet, but dont be fooled.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
We do know about Hamilton’s.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Without second chances, probably none of us would be where we are today.
David Young - February 22, 2012
Sure. Second chances are very nice. Not requiring a second chance is better.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
yeah, but I prefer people who arent hiding behind something, tell me what I shouldnt be doing, while they are doing the same thing the whole dam time.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Don’t do drugs.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
I didnt use to do drugs, but then one day some cops came to my school and DARE me to do it. I never turn down a dare… im kidding.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Are you? I always found those counter productive. The first time I went to a auditorium in sixth grade and they gave the whole don’t do drugs speech and told us what to watch out for I left the auditorium pretending to be stoned and was more intrigued then scared.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
funny story, but yeah im kidding. Believe it or not, I use to be straight edge… I never touched a drug or alcohol thru all 12 grades… It wasnt until after HS I was currupted.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
So you were a hypocrite.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
what do you mean?? I never told anyone not to do anything.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
That’s what the Straight Edge lifestyle is supposed to be about.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
I thought it was about having a cleanly shaven face
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
You don't have to be preachy to be straight edge
Or otherwise live a lifestyle like someone straight edge.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
Josh Hamilton and Chris “Bridman” Anderson are doing pretty well for themselves these days. Who knows if he has changed, nobody knows that, only time will tell. All my point is whats the rush in cutting the guy? Whats the harm in allowing him to be a part of ST and see what he has?? You need bodies and guys who can pitch innings anyways.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
If Babe Ruth lived in Venezuela he might have missed some spring trainings too
Table - February 22, 2012
if Base Ruth lived in Venezuela he’d heard cattle for a living
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
I mean he’s still no Josh Lueke
Table - February 22, 2012
I don't recall for certain
You were all over the Torre-Hudson thing, right?
David Young - February 22, 2012
Other than Hudson having hurt feelings because no one told him he had been benched for the hottest hitter on the team, I don’t think that impacted the Dodger season any.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
It impacted the following season, since he wasn’t re-signed.
berkowit28 - February 22, 2012
I’d call that a blessing since we went with Carroll instead.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
I agree. At the time, though, it seemed unfortunate.
berkowit28 - February 22, 2012
He doesn't have a drug problem
He’s got a drug opportunity
mleadman - February 22, 2012
haha ur the best marty!!
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
That seems reasonable to me.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
It’s real hard to get popped for cocaine unless you’re doing it constantly.
How does drug testing work for guys that are in Venezula anyway?
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
Didn’t Ron Washington say he tried it once? Everyone seemed to believe him.
OB12 - February 22, 2012
Ron Washington played baseball in the 80s, no one should have bought that line.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
They had to, otherwise Washington would have snorted it.
Julio Pena - February 22, 2012
“It’s easy to get caught for using cocaine. Tell him Ron.”
“It’s incredibly hard.”
David Young - February 22, 2012
The working theory here is that he tested positive as part of his drug test with the U.S. Consulate to get his visa.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Which doesn’t seem like a surprise to me.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
Hey, he only tried it once, which means it went about as well as
this
underdog - February 22, 2012
I thought for sure that was going to be
a Len Bias story
Greg Stephen - February 22, 2012
Oh, ugh, no, too depressing to go there...
underdog - February 22, 2012
Eric or I would have
but, then again, look at the source
Greg Stephen - February 22, 2012
Yeah right.
One time my ass.
Xeifrank - February 22, 2012
What he really meant was “one time a day”.
Xeifrank - February 22, 2012
Snorted vitamins by mistake. Sponsored by MLB, no wonder he was confused!
underdog - February 22, 2012
lol why does everyone say the I only tried it once BS?? I dont even think it stays in your system that long, just a few days I think….. its not like weed that says in you like a month…. so what timing that he got a drug test within days after trying it once.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Maybe he only did cocaine once and the rest of the time he smokes crack. Maybe he smokes coca leaves. Maybe he’s a liar.
I really only care whether he can pitch or not.
BFDC - February 22, 2012
Im with you on that, as long as he can pitch…. but I just hope when he is pitching well he doesnt just dissapear on a binge.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Now this is a ride
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/derek-holland-drives-dune-buggy-straight-tupac-compton-062331076.html
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Is that Adam Morrison?
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
Was the highlight of Howland’s career defeating Morrison’s Gonzaga team?
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
If the highlight of your Pac 12 coaching career is beating a West Coast Conference teams, you’ve got probs
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
Groan
Michael White - February 22, 2012
Roar!
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
He’s got problems
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
He’s just not developing talent anymore or is picking up the wrong guys to UCLA. I believe the former
Julio Nievas - February 22, 2012 via mobile
he did have that crazy guy who quit on them at the beginning of the year
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
Reeeeveeesss. what a nut case he turned out to be…along with drew gordon who left like 2 years back
DannyDodger - February 22, 2012
I disagree.
THIS is a ride.
Taylor Maricle - February 22, 2012
Eric getting into the bad spring training twitpics game : )
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
I forgot to bring my camera out to the field, so I had to use my iPhone.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
just teasing E, no harm intended : )
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
oh I know
It would be hilarious if I ended up on that site. Dylan Hernandez and Tony Jackson are openly trying to get on it. It’s pretty funny.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
at any rate, I don’t think it’ll make the tumblr
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
Sums up my thoughts on the Beli coke admission pretty well
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/02/22/ronald-belisario-tested-positive-for-cocaine-said-he-used-it-only-once/
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
I liked this comment underneath
underdog - February 22, 2012
he’s no double dipper : )
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
If Bellisario actually acknowledged he had problems and was working on them, I could believe that he slipped for a night, ended up partying with some random people and did a line with them in a bathroom. But Bellisario hasn’t done anything to clear the perception that he’s an unrepentant fuck up, so I really doubt he’s a frequent passenger on the white train.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
this ^^^
underdog - February 22, 2012
Don Mattingly when asked if Matt Kemp set his goals too high: “I’d rather him be talking 50/50 than 20/20.”
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Shoot for the moon, if you miss, Mars is nice this time of year
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
I did not see this before I made my comment above
heh
nolander - February 22, 2012
That show hasn't been the same since Hugh Downs left
Pure Azure - February 22, 2012
Giant ex-prospect/murderer Angel Villalona is being denied a work visa because he’s too fat to play baseball.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
if Base Ruth lived in Venezuela, he’d be too fat to play baseball
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
I heard cattle hearding is a great workout.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
that’s true, good for the glutes
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
First name Angel, he never had a chance
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
I almost felt sad when a Giants fan asked about him (again) on KNBR the other day
when Kevin Goldstein was a guest. I see BA writers get asked him on occasion by G fans on Twitter. I guess it’s sort of like us holding on to Guzman (whose off field history wasn’t bad like Villalona’s, but both touted prospects who disappointed…)
underdog - February 22, 2012
James Loney crashes into multiple cars on the Hollywood Freeway, then attempts to flee the scene by swerving back across the freeway hitting more cars. His drug test comes back clean, so no big deal, and he gets a new contract. The lesson? Drugs are evil.
ishXdavid - February 22, 2012
If Babe Ruth did drugs he would have been a hit at Studio 54
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
Can you imagine the Babe on a hot dog binge after smoking pot? He would have won the Nathan’s contest…
latenite - February 22, 2012
I dont think so, fat people never win those kind of contests, I dont know why.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
The stomach’s of thin people can expand more – that’s why they usually win. Babe might have been the exception to the rule!
latenite - February 22, 2012
Skinny people have the metabolism necessary not to compete for those contests, but to actually train for them. I remember seeing a video of Kobayashi training in Japan, and it looked like he closes down a Todai on a nightly basis.
ishXdavid - February 22, 2012
IIRC, he also runs like 10 miles a day and does core work like a fiend.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
gotta work your core, not just your glamour muscles
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
Mattingly on Belisario
“Beli for me walks into camp with a fresh start. He’s here on time, he looks like he’s in great shape. We’ll see how he’s throwing the ball, so how he holds up, and move forward. Until we have any problems, I’m going to anticipate he’s in good order.”
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Best shape of his life!
Michael White - February 22, 2012
exactly!! Glad Donnie knows what he is doing, and how to go about this.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Spoken like a man who really lived during the 80s.
ishXdavid - February 22, 2012
"I was addicted to coke, during my wall street days"
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
Look, Belisario will get another chance, as Donnie's quote shows
and if he gets his act together, great. He’s got talent and no one wants him to piss his life away. But to act like this is just one isolated incident is so naive I’m almost speechless. Yes I hope for the best, too, I have nothing personal against him, but he really needs to earn our trust both ON the field, and off it. Simple, really.
Next.
underdog - February 22, 2012
First step is admitting you have a problem. “That is in the past. I don’t want to talk about it, all of this is completely behind me.” is the total opposite of that.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
"I have to go to the 'dentist' for more cocaine, er, novocaine!"
underdog - February 22, 2012
Lil Wayne has a song called Novocaine, but I think its about cocaine.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
IMO he doesnt need to admit a dam thing to any of us, who are we??? Maybe he has admittied it to his family, and or Dodgers management, but IMO he doesnt owe the media or the fans shit.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
And frankly I'd much rather give that spot to someone like Lindblom who has done nothing but work hard
does what has been asked of him (even starting, even when struggling), and has at this point in time more upside on the mound, too.
underdog - February 22, 2012
Pretty much
In the end I don’t expect Beliario to make this team after his 25 day suspension is lifted. I spoke rashly in saying simply release him now and don’t waste our time. But the reality is that I’m wrong, he deserves a chance, I simply don’t expect anything from him. I think he’s done. JMO
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
This is more in line with the truth. He’ll get the opportunity to show what he’s got in ST and during his suspension, however there are a lot of guys ahead of him now including Lindblom, Tolleson, Eovaldi, and by mid-season, RDLR.
OB12 - February 22, 2012
Of those guys I think only Lindblom is ahead of him (from the org’s standpoint, not my own.) RDLR and Eovaldi’s are starters and Tolleson is not on the roster. And if Beli didn’t have the 25 game suspension, I’m not sure Lindblom would be considered ahead of him either. Ned/Torre/Mattingly value roster flexibility, so I think they’d give Beli the chance over the guys who have options remaining. Particularly given D2X’s quote above.
Michael White - February 22, 2012
All depends on what he’s got. He was great in 2009, not so much in 2010, and his winter numbers are not inspiring.
The K rate dropped two clicks, the xFIP remained the same, the ERA climbed into the stratosphere, HR rate doubled. If Belisario even showed up in 2011 would he have been a Dodger by the end of 2011?
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Good point. He’s been out of baseball for a year so it’s probably a good idea to wait and see what his velocity is (having missed a year of training) before I slot him into the depth chart.
Michael White - February 22, 2012
True, Tolleson is not on the roster, but he’ll be looked at closely I’m sure, especially if he keeps putting up numbers like last season. RDLR and Eovaldi are starters, but I’d bet they are looking at Rubby as reliever for later in the season.
Maybe they are not ahead of Belli, but the fact is management will have a good number of options to choose from if bullpen help is needed. If he is pitching well, he may have a slight edge on Tolleson, but probably still neck and neck with Lindblom and Eovaldi.
OB12 - February 22, 2012
Isnt Eovaldi a starter?? If he isnt starting on the big club, I rather he be starting in the minors then in our bullpen to begin the season, whatever the other options are.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Unless disaster strikes the bullpen, I cannot imagine any scenario that Eovaldi is not starting until at least August.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
My Eo plan
Begin the year in minors as starter; end year in majors as reliever. Decent way to curb his innings too.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
MY EO Plan
Begin the year in minors, dominate, get traded to the Mets for David Wright.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
That’s a good plan.
OB12 - February 22, 2012
I’d take that too.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
I'm sure people think it won't happen
But it makes so much damn sense to trade for Wright later in the year. The new owner may want to make a splash at the deadline too, so you never know.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
At the same time, the owner won’t want to cripple the farm system moving forward.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
true
But it shouldn’t take all of our top prospects. At this point I have no idea what it would take, but I think a deal can get done without really hurting the farm too bad. As long as we keep Lee, one of webster/eovaldi, Rubby, Baldwin, Reed, and Pederson I think it will be fine. I could see Gould being involved for sure.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
That sound you just heard was a dial tone.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
For 3 months of Wright (maybe 2), Eovaldi will be good enough at that point to headline the package.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
http://youtu.be/LvNUyQ3xuAQ
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Wright can void the rest of his contract after the trade, the Mets need salary relief. If LA doesn’t take cash in the deal, I would hope a declining 3B rental for two months can’t command too big a package.
David Young - February 22, 2012
I offer Castellanos and Fife.
David Young - February 22, 2012
I hope everyone but the Dodgers have that same mindset of "declining"
Wright is absolutely still a 4-5 WAR player with the opportunity for better if he improves his defense (may not happen, but he’s been good in the past).
As for Eric, mock me if you will, I still think a deal can get done without Lee involved.
Perhaps a bet need be made ;)
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
Just because a deal can be done, doesn’t mean it will be done.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
I have to agree, can’t imagine Wright pulling in anyone’s top prospect unless he simply goes off this year and that ain’t going to happen.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Even if our top prospect is #62? I think it’s reasonable to expect our top prosepct leaving for a potential impact player, especially at a tough position to fill.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
That’s just baseball america, Lee was higher on a lot of other publications.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
The last few weeks you really do seem like you are on the trade for Wright train
when did that start?
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
If the Dodgers are in contention he is a player who might be available at the trading deadline who would help this team in a position of need.
BH keeps saying who could we get? David Wright is the answer. We match up, they need lots of young pitching and a outfielder or two.
I would not gut the farm for him, I doubt he’d be very expensive from a prospect point of view. He is someone I’d like beyond 2012 given our 3rd base situation.
The easy schedule and division has me wondering if we can’t muddle into contention and add a piece like Wright, Rubby, and hope for Billingsley/Loney/Andre corenuttts.
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
I agree with that. If we are hanging around, then a Kemp/Ethier/Wright/Loney middle of the order could be a decent boost.
OB12 - February 22, 2012
Wright isn't an elite talent anymore
So i’m not hyped up on getting him.
I’d rather blow out the farm system for a Zimmerman type than trade a couple of top prospects for a declining player like Wright
Taylor Maricle - February 22, 2012
He's not elite
But he’s still an all-star talent, and at 3B he would still be considered elite for the position.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
I’m sorry, i’m just not going to get my panties in a bunch over a .771 2011 OPS.
Taylor Maricle - February 22, 2012
Yes, 1 year sample sizes are always the best way to go
Dude, come on.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
Wanna bet that he'll WAR under 4 this year?
Taylor Maricle - February 22, 2012
Yes
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
Yeah, I’m sure he’ll be starting in the minors and would probably be the starter called upon if a spot in the rotation opens. However, I wouldn’t bet against him being bullpen support later in the season.
OB12 - February 22, 2012
All I want is for Rubby & Eo to be in the mix for the 2013 opening day roster. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Eo eventually stuck in the bullpen as a late-inning power arm. His success as a starter last year was a most pleasant surprise.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
You know you want more than that, you are just afraid to think it or say it.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Geez, you see right through me.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
The thing is, Beli is out for 25 games anyway, so if/when he’s given a chance to join the LAD bullpen he’ll just replace the guy who’s been the most ineffective to that point. If Lindblom performs early, I think he’s probably safe. Somebody will suck.
Michael White - February 22, 2012
true, true
underdog - February 22, 2012
This old story on Belisario did make me laugh once though
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/dodgers/2010/07/dodgers-ronald-belisario-still-out-and-no-one-knows-when-hell-return.html
[sad trombone sound]
underdog - February 22, 2012
I know a little German.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
Which one is little?
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
I would act like everything the one on the right said was interesting.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
Nice jugs..err…mugs
BaldBilly - February 22, 2012
baseball related? Insert Jugs gun humor here _________________ mph.
BaldBilly - February 22, 2012
nice pearl necklace
mleadman - February 22, 2012
I’m thinking all these girls are fairly good at arm wrestling. Not sure I could even lift those steins.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
The image is blocked so I’m enjoying the comments. It’s like that famous SNL skit with Steve Martin saying, “What the hell is that?” over and over again and the audience can’t see what he’s talking about.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
From the twitter,
both from Kevin Goldstein. One:
Two:This has been the latest from minor Dodgers Spring Training news.David Young - February 22, 2012
I thought Leach was the answer . . . Once
kinbote - February 22, 2012
I liked him.
I was disappointed when he was sent down.
Taylor Maricle - February 22, 2012
He’s like your twin but taller
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
And actually able to throw a baseball reasonably hard.
Taylor Maricle - February 22, 2012
“My Dad hung me on a hook………..Once.”
iiidown - February 22, 2012
To bad Jared is a lousy pitcher instead of a cool 3rd baseman.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
I loved Carny. He was just cool on cool.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
You can’t trust a carny. But Carney Lansford was a badass, both in MLB and in Angels in the Outfield.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Decent trivia question: Who batted second behind Ricky Henderson for the famous 1988-1992 A’s teams?
kinbote - February 22, 2012
Mark Ellis.
David Young - February 22, 2012
Steinbach?
Pure Azure - February 22, 2012
Anybody ever read Tortilla Flat?
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
Dave Henderson?
Nolij - February 22, 2012
According my sources it was Carny. (My sources might be wrong.)
kinbote - February 22, 2012
I found it funny that people were guessing names when I thought you were basically telling us this is a good trivia question related to Carny.
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
In the only game that matters, Lansford led off and Dave Henderson hit second.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Walt Weiss
BFDC - February 22, 2012
I know it's Japan, but I was certain Leach
got paid.
Who Is Karim Garcia? - February 22, 2012
Apparently, this is a promotion item in Tampa Bay this season
The Zim Bear!
David Young - February 22, 2012
This is a heaping tablespoon of wrong
mleadman - February 22, 2012
Looks like something from Alice in Wonderland
Phil Gurnee - February 22, 2012
How long before we see pics on the internet
with Jerry Sandusky’s face photoshopped over it?
David Young - February 22, 2012
Rays doing everything they can to become hateable this offseason.
regfairfield - February 22, 2012
The cat mascot is better than this
but this is still amusing
Pure Azure - February 22, 2012
You guys got it all wrong. In Spanish once means
ELEVEN.
Who Is Karim Garcia? - February 22, 2012
Easy rec
David Young - February 22, 2012
Hilarious
and welcome back!
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
one of my favorite Vegas memories
is being at a crap table with a bunch of Argentinians. They had the whole table shouting ONCE! every roll of the dice.
mleadman - February 22, 2012
That’s like my grandfather ordering “dry” beer in Germany and they brought him three!
kinbote - February 22, 2012
or European Vacation (aka the worst of the Vacation movies)
“I’m looking for sex.”
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
was it really the worst?? maybe so, but IMO it had the hottest Audrey of them all.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
The only line I remember (on the airplane):
Stewardess: What would you like to drink?
CG: Soda
S: Would you like it in the can?
CG: [looking backwards] No, I’ll have it in my seat.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
One could argue that Vegas Vacation was worse, but that movie has its charms. For instance, the “Guess a Number” gambling table is hilarious.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Never seen Vegas one or X-mas one. O.G. is a classic, especially the father-son talks with Russ.
“Girl, what girl? Her? She was a . . . waitress. A swimming waitress. I was ordering some fish for you and mom and . . .”
kinbote - February 22, 2012
Never...seen....Christmas Vacation???????
[faints]
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
haha seriously, you are robbing yourself of one of the greatest Christmas movies of all time, if not the greatest.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
wtf mate
As far as Vegas Vacation, it’s not a good movie, but damn I like it, haha.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
I like it too, I like when the son gets involved with those mob figures, and wins all those cars.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
Maybe I have seen it, but I don’t remember it. Does it have Anthony Michael Hall?
kinbote - February 22, 2012
Vegas Vacation is awesome.
fbihop - February 22, 2012
Hottest Audrey of them all
Nolij - February 22, 2012
You’re out of your mind… negative rec. Vegas is easily the worst of the vacation movies and it isn’t even a contest!
LA Taco - February 22, 2012
The Yankees have apparently signed a 23-year old indie baller named
Burt Reynolds. I hope this dude is sporting a serious mustache.
David Young - February 22, 2012
Something tells me he'll never be caught
in a rundown.
Who Is Karim Garcia? - February 22, 2012
Nickname: Smokey.
He needs to show up on Eastbound & Down.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
An original Himbo.
kinbote - February 22, 2012
Apparently Burt is Robinson Cano’s cousin. (!)
David Young - February 22, 2012
Colts can sign Andrew Luck on Friday
PFT
Interesting dynamic with the whole rookie pay scale, etc.
silverwidow - February 22, 2012
I refuse to read this article so I will ask
Is that just because they have the first pick and it doesn’t really matter?
Also, in reference to my first sentence, i’m actually just too lazy.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
yes
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
It’s because they have the first pick and there’s not much room for negotiation anymore. The pick basically has a slot dollar amount.
silverwidow - February 22, 2012
an older gentleman at my work
Noticed the box for my Duke Snider bobblehead and told me “I saw him play when I was 8.”
/kindacool
Tommy Blackjack - February 22, 2012 via iPhone app
Awesome.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
and then offered you a Dr. Pepper.
David Young - February 22, 2012
Dude knew Dr. Pepper when he was still in medical school.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Really interesting article on how entertainment writers should think more like baseball geeks when it comes to ratings and movie grosses.
fbihop - February 22, 2012
very good stuff, thanks for sharing. There are few places trying to do actual economic analysis of the entertainment industry. It’s greatly needed, but many critics have settled for simply being advocates for the shows they think are quality. Variety and TV By the Numbers are where I get my analysis, but TVBTN is extremely guilty of just going, oh this number is low so this will happen
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
I just figured out one thing that gets my blood boiling a bit
Someone saying anything bad about Vin Scully and/or that he should have retired years ago.
I suppose we should have more jackasses like Hawk Harrelson homering it up?
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
Who said something bad about Vin?
fbihop - February 22, 2012
Eh someone was complaining about him mispronouncing names and saying wrong pitches from a video clip, and those are fightin words to me, lol.
Then I said something to my friend Cory about it (why am I friends with him??), and he says it’s horrible sometimes with the names and he should have retired 5 years ago.
Of course he is an Angel fan who LIKED Rex Hudler…
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
Yeah he reminds me of how Chick was torwards the end with the mistakes, but whatever, he is still the greatest and glad he is still here.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
2011 Vin is nowhere close to making
as many mistakes as 2002 Chick Hearn. No disrespect to Chick.
delias man - February 22, 2012
Yeah, Chick was at Harry Caray levels of inaccuracy by the end.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
If Vin retired, who would remind us that Uggla means owl? Who, I ask you!?
fbihop - February 22, 2012
who will give my kids lectures
on V-Day and Memorial day while watching baseball?
delias man - February 22, 2012
whats the problem with homer announcers anyways?? If im watching a game on an Angels feed for example, I would expect them to lean torwards the Angels.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
because vin taught us that
being a homer announcer was bullshit.
delias man - February 22, 2012
it's unprofessional
and doesn’t add anything to the broadcast. Commentary should help one understand the game, fan banter is just masturbation
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
I have room in my heart for both homers and Vinny types.
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
why is it unprofessional? I would agree when doing a national broadcast on say ABC, or TNT whatever…. but if its for a certain team, they work for that team, I like when I feel they are also a fan of that team and want them to win.
uschris0304 - February 22, 2012
And Red Barber taught Vin that
Michael White - February 22, 2012
I'm a homer
I don’t want to listen to me broadcast games.
Ivdown - February 22, 2012
I noticed the Spurs got whumped last night. Wasn’t until a few minutes ago I found out that Popovich gave Duncan / Parker the night off. I think he’s getting some heat, and it really sucked for the Portland fans, but at first glance I think it was a brilliant move in a season of attrition.
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
Van Gundy went on a three minute rant on ABC Sunday about how it’s shameful that the media were suggesting Chris Rose take more time off. The fans pay to watch these players blah blah. Then you see Rose hit the hardwood on his back and wince in serious pain. But Kobe does it, so obviously every play should play through the pain.
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
Yeah. Chris Rose isn’t very good, but it’s Kevin Millar that needs to go away.
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Intentional balk by Josie
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Chris Rose, Derrick Rose. By any other name would smell as sweet.
Josie Becker - February 22, 2012
are you talking about
Chris Bosh or Derrick Rose?
bhsportsguy - February 22, 2012 via iPhone app
As somebody tweeted last night, I wonder how Pop decides that “yup, tonight’s the night we tank.”
Michael White - February 22, 2012
He looked at the fact Mano and Splitter were hurt. End of a extremely long road trip. Probably noticed Parker and Duncan dragging. This doesn’t seem like brain surgery to say, this is a game we can take off, knowing they would probably lose anyway based on his teams condition why waste whatever energy Parker and Duncan had ?
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
I laugh at the notion of Popavich taking heat
Because you know he doesn’t give a flying fuck
Tommy Blackjack - February 22, 2012 via iPhone app
I dislike the Spurs immensely as an opposing fan, but damn I respect those fucks. Pop is a badass.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Second favorite NBA team
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
Though Robert Horry turned me off for a few years
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
What is ‘What everybody else in Los Angeles calls the Clippers,’ Alex?
Nolij - February 22, 2012
Favorite team?
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
I remember Pat Riley getting fined $25,000 or so for doing that in Portland while coaching the Lakers. I want to say it was 1989 or 1990 but I don’t remember.
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
1990, last game of the season
The Lakers minus Magic, Worthy, and Byron got destroyed by the Blazers, and a less intelligent LA Times columnist said that the blowout loss to Portland in that meaningless game contributed to their 2nd round playoff exit at the hands of Phoenix three weeks later.
The Dude Abides - February 23, 2012
Nothing eventful happened in the first workout today.
Such is life. I’ll post a little about Rubby later.
Ted Lilly is expected back in a few days. Still on schedule, assuming he threw while he was away (Mattingly’s words, as he will speak with Lilly later today)
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Can we find out Brandon’s 11-20?
meercatjohn - February 22, 2012
I was about to say in 5 minutes, but I forgot I’m an hour ahead of you.
It is up now
http://www.truebluela.com/2012/2/22/2804125/dodgers-2012-minor-league-countdown-20-11
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
Schefter predicted Peyton will take his talents to South Beach.
silverwidow - February 22, 2012
new post
http://www.truebluela.com/2012/2/22/2804125/dodgers-2012-minor-league-countdown-20-11
Eric Stephen - February 22, 2012
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