What a great night it was last night at Chavez Ravine. Thanks to everyone who came for True Blue LA night, a game when it was scheduled we thought would have no real meaning. It was a pleasure meeting those of you I hadn't yet met, and it was great to see old friends as well.
Steps number two and three on the 2009 Dodger checklist is now complete.
| 2009 Dodgers Checklist | |
 |
Make The Playoffs |
|
Win National League West |
|
Best Record in the NL |
| Win NLDS | |
| Win NL Pennant | |
| Win World Series | |
I'm here at the stadium this morning, covering the game. It is Joe Torre tradition on the final game of the season to let his players manage the game if it doesn't matter in the standings. As soon as I find out who the manager and pitching coach are for today, I will pass that along to you. My guess is Mark Loretta and Brad Ausmus.
There are a few reporters from Philadelphia here, no doubt getting some advance stories for their first round playoff opponent, which is now the Rockies. I haven't seen any reporters from St. Louis just yet.
Here are some photos from last night:
It was Star Wars night as well:
Jonathan Broxton closed out the ninth with ease
After the flyout to Andre Ethier to end it, the scoreboard told the story
Then it was celebration time
more celebrating
after the players went into the locker room, they came back out for more celebrating
Ethier made the rounds with fans
Ned Colletti got doused with champagne (is that a dour-looking Scott Boras behind him?)
Clayton Kershaw does not know what its like to not win the NL West
Then it was Beast Mode time for Juan Pierre
The Rockies took the long walk home (or at least to the team bus)
Just in case you forgot who the Dodgers play next
Phil took some more pictures, and he will post them soon. Again, thanks for everyone for coming to the game, and thanks for contributing here and making this a great site to follow the NL West champs.