Eric Stephen
Managing Editor
Eric Stephen is the managing editor of True Blue LA, where he's covered the Dodgers since 2009, providing comprehensive analysis of and commentary on the team, their performance, player payroll, old friend alerts, spring training ties, three-inning saves, and even the minutiae of every single roster transaction.
In addition to writing about the Dodgers, Eric is the host of two podcasts on the True Blue LA feed. Leading Off is the weekly podcast co-hosted by Jacob Burch that has delved into the ins and outs of the team since 2013. The Lineup is a daily morning podcast in season that reacts to the news and notes of each day.
Growing up in Palm Springs, Eric watched the Dodgers thanks to the guidance of his two older brothers, and has watched baseball intently (some would rightfully say obsessively) since 1985, when his first favorite player, Pedro Guerrero, tied a record by hitting 15 home runs that June.
Eric’s favorite player of all-time is Eddie Murray, who hit .330/.414/.520 for the Dodgers in 1990. He led the majors in batting average that season but did not win a batting title because Willie McGee’s .335 batting average with St. Louis stood after the outfielder was traded to Oakland in late August, a fact that Eric is still sore about over three decades later.
Eric has worked in a variety of roles for SB Nation and Vox Media. He ran SB Nation Los Angeles, was an assignment editor and copy editor for SB Nation, and wrote about all sports nationally for SB Nation. He has been a member of the Baseball Writers Association of America since 2016, and has covered 10 postseasons and three World Series.
Notes: River Ryan rising, minor league CBA, a painful yet successful proposal
Dodgers minor league pitcher River Ryan is on the rise, catching up with the Rule 5 selections from December, more looks at the new minor league collective bargaining agreement, and a happy ending to the fan who tried to propose on the field at Dodger Stadium.
Gavin Stone, OKC blown out in Triple-A opener
Gavin Stone allowed six runs but he wasn’t alone in the Triple-A Oklahoma City Dodgers 14-8 loss to Tacoma on minor league opening day. Hunter Feduccia and Luke Williams each hit three-run home runs for Oklahoma City.
This stream has:
March 31: D-backs 2, Dodgers 1
The Dodgers play the Diamondbacks on Friday, March 31 at Dodger Stadium.
Dodgers waste Dustin May’s gem, lose late to D-backs
Dustin May pitched seven scoreless innings in the longest start of his career, but the Diamondbacks scored twice off the bullpen to beat the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.
Dodgers vs. D-backs Game II chat
The Dodgers and Diamondbacks play on Friday night at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.
Balancing needing Will Smith in the lineup & keeping him fresh
How the Dodgers plan to find off days for catcher Will Smith, one of their best hitters, to keep him fresh. Plus the tentative plan for Tony Gonsolin, who could face hitters next week, and how Michael Grove and the fifth-starter spot might be used.
Drew Avans on seizing every potential advantage
After two years playing center field in Triple-A, Dodgers outfielder Drew Avans impressed as a non-roster invitee in spring training with his speed, defense, and heady play. The former 33rd-round draft pick on his spring and potential major league chances.
2023 Oklahoma City Dodgers viewing guide
An overview of the Triple-A Oklahoma City Dodgers, and how to watch, listen, and follow along with their minor league games during the 2023 season.
Notes: Gathering of Cys, Jason Heyward brings wine, Stephen Nelson
The five living Dodgers Cy Young Award winners were present at Dodger Stadium on opening day. Outfielder Jason Heyward gifted his teammates and coaches a bottle of wine, and when Stephen Nelson is set to make his SportsNet LA debut.
Will Smith, James Outman lead Dodgers on opening day
Will Smith had three hits and drove in four, and rookie James Outman homered in the Dodgers’ win over the Diamondbacks on opening day at Dodger Stadium.