Matthew Mesa/Los Angeles Dodgers
By Jon Weisman
In discussing potential Dodger leadoff hitters last week, I hesitated to include Andre Ethier because he had never done so in a regular-season game – but I decided to do so anyway, because against right-handers, it makes sense.
Sure enough, Ethier grabbed a leadoff spot in today’s 7-3 Dodger victory over Colorado, walking and singling in his first two at-bats.
Dave Roberts told reporters today that Ethier could bat leadoff when the matchup is favorable.
What else can I tell you?
- Hyun-Jin Ryu is not going to pitch in Cactus League play and is doubtful to return to Major League action before June, Dave Roberts said today.
- Zach Lee retired the first eight batters he faced in a 3 1/3-inning performance, allowing a run on four baserunners with one strikeout.
- Julio Urias gave up a run in his first inning of relief, but retired the final four batters in his two-inning outing.
- In his second Cactus League game, Justin Turner went 1 for 3 with an error.
- Elian Herrera and Trayce Thompson both scored on the same wild pitch in the eighth inning.
- Some interesting data from Tony Blengino at Fangraphs supports a big 2016 season for Yasmani Grandal. In his first Cactus League game since March 9, Grandal singled and walked.
- Outfield prospect Alex Verdugo did a Q&A with Jim Callis of MLB.com.
- Dustin Nosler of Dodgers Digest rated Dodger minor leaguers according to best tools.
- Frank Sinatra Jr., who sang the national anthem at Dodger Stadium several times, most recently in September as part of the centennial celebration of his father, has passed away at age 72. Tommy Lasorda expressed his sadness this evening. “Like his father, Frank Jr. brought us much joy with his unbelievable musical talent,” Lasorda said. “Last season, Frank Jr. sang the national anthem at Dodger Stadium on my birthday. What a voice! Frank Jr. was a great and lovely family man. He will be missed dearly.”
- For a brief moment this morning, it looked like Dodger Stadium was going the Calvinball route …
Dodger Stadium looks great, and the intriguing second pitchers' mound near first base is even more exciting! pic.twitter.com/o8WJnLW1pc
— Dodger Insider (@DodgerInsider) March 16, 2016
oldbrooklynfan
It’s hard to think of Ethier leading off, but we do have a new manager.