A couple weeks ago, the Dodgers announced the list of players set to play in the team's old-timer's game against the Yankees on June 8th. Today, manager Tommy Lasorda announced on twitter that he has chosen his starter:
"I'm proud to announce my starting pitcher for the Old-Timer's Game (6/8), Fernando Valenzuela" - @TommyLasorda
The Dodgers' official facebook and twitter accounts confirmed the announcement.
Some of the big names for the Dodgers include: Ron Cey, Eric Gagne, Tommy Davis, Pedro Guerrero, Davey Lopes, Don Newcombe, Maury Wills, and Darryl Strawberry.
These former Dodgers, and many more, will go up against a Yankees team that includes Dwight Gooden, Goose Gossage, and Rickey Henderson.
While he is not listed on the Dodgers' website as a participant, Sandy Koufax said during spring training that he plans to be at Dodger Stadium that day when the team honors the 50th anniversary of the 1963 World Series. The first 40,000 fans to arrive will receive a 1963 World Series replica ring.
This is the schedule of events for the day listed on the Dodgers' website:
- 4:10pm - Gates open to the public
- 5:20pm - Old-timers' introductions
- 5:30pm - 6:45pm - Old-timers' game
- 7:10pm - Dodgers vs. Braves