Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 85 - Kershaw, Puig, Hanley, prospects

On these episodes of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodgers Nation) and I talk about Clayton Kershaw's no-hitter and the suddenly relevant (again) Dodgers.

Kershaw threw the first no-hitter of his career, and Jared tried his best to keep it in his pants. Spoiler alert: he didn't.

Yasiel Puig and Hanley Ramirez are battling injuries, and one or both of them might need to be placed on the disabled list.

Corey Seager and Julio Urias were named to the Futures Game, while Joc Pederson is hurt.

Grant Holmes signed his deal, and we talk about other prospect news.

Per usual, we close with the Q&A. Some good ones this week, including one where I'm called out for being, for lack of a better term, "lazy."

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (dugoutbluepodcast@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@JaredJMassey or @DustinNosler). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 83 - Dodgers, MLB Draft review, prospects

On these episodes of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodgers Nation) and I are joined by Chris Rodriguez of Baseball Prospectus to recap the 2014 MLB Draft and some Dodgers' prospects.

Chris Anderson has been generally disappointing, and the Dodgers might be changing his mechanics. Julio Urias is still great, as is Corey Seager. Tom Windle still might be a reliever, but he's been solid this season.

We get into the Dodgers' draft, which was underwhelming after nailing their first two picks in Grant Holmes and Alex Verdugo. They took just eight high schoolers -- the fewest number of prep players of any year in Logan White's tenure. There are a few guys who might be something, but on the whole, we were expecting more.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (dugoutbluepodcast@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@JaredJMassey or @DustinNosler). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' MLB Draft edition - Grant Holmes & Alex Verdugo

On these episodes of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodgers Nation) and I recap the first two rounds of the 2014 MLB Draft -- Dodgers style.

Listen as we debate who might or might not fall to the Dodgers at No. 22. Then, listen as we praise the selection of prep right-hander Grant Holmes.

 For the second round, I actually call the pick before it's made, and it was Arizona high schooler Alex Verdugo. The only thing is, he was drafted as an outfielder and not a left-handed pitcher. That was a surprise.

First round
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Second round
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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (dugoutbluepodcast@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@JaredJMassey or @DustinNosler). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 80 - Blessing, Arruebarrena, Guerrero

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodgers Nation) and I have special guest co-host Chris Blessing of ROTOscouting.com in for a visit.

I know, it's been awhile since I posted a podcast here. My apologies. I'm going to start doing it every week. You can also get to the podcast on Dodgers Digest via the "podcast" tab in the menu bar.

Anyway, we talk a lot about Erisbel Arruebarrena, who was, coincidentally, recalled to the Dodgers the day after we recorded. Blessing wrote a great scouting report on EA.

We also talk about Miguel Olivo showing 70-grade cannibalism by biting a piece of Alex Guerrero's ear off in an altercation during Tuesday's game. Olivo was released on Thursday.

We close with a lengthy Q&A session. Keep up with the great questions, folks.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (dugoutbluepodcast@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@JaredJMassey or @DustinNosler). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 68 - Jason Parks of Baseball Prospectus

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," I interview Jason Parks of Baseball Prospectus about the BP Top 101 and his Top 10 Dodgers' prospects.

Parks is BP's prospect guru, and was kind enough to give me 30 minutes of his time to indulge me about prospects.

First, we talk about Julio Urias' placement in the BP 101 (35). Then we touch on the others who made the BP 101 (Corey Seager, 44; Joc Pederson, 50; and Zach Lee, 84).

After, we go in-depth into the Dodgers' Top 10. I ask him some detailed questions and throw in my 2 cents, for whatever that's worth (probably less than 2 cents).

I close by asking him about the system overall, which continues to improve.

Baseball Prospectus' prospect coverage is unparalleled. Parks has done a fantastic job taking over for Kevin Goldstein and has put together some really good talent evaluators who can write a little bit.
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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 67 - Dodgers Digest, Kershaw, Figgins

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I have special guest co-host Daniel Brim in for a visit.

Because it's awesome, Brim and I talk about Dodgers Digest and how it all came together.

The Clayton Kershaw contract extension was announced the day we posted the last episode, so the three of us give our hot take on.

Masahiro Tanaka signed with the Yankees for a ridiculous amount of money -- a price the Dodgers were obviously (and intelligently) unwilling to meet.

We also touch on A.J. Burnett, who became a topic of discussion on Tuesday after announcing he would pitch in 2014. The #BurnettWatch is on. While he'd be a nice addition to the Dodgers, it's unlikely he'd sign with them.

The Dodgers signed Chone Figgins, and we're all in consensus: He's going to make the opening day roster.

We get to the Q&A, which was solid this week. After that, we tease my interview with Jason Parks, which will be posted as episode 68 on Friday.

Episode dedications
Jared, Dusitn and Daniel: Jeff Kubenka

We'll probably continue to record every other week, or as news warrants (Tanaka signs), during the winter. But spring training is quickly approaching (yay!).

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 66 - HOF, Puig, Tanaka, Stripling interview

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I talk Hall of Fame (unfortunately), Alex Rodriguez (thanks, Jared) and, oh yeah, the Dodgers.

Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux and Frank Thomas were inducted to the Hall of Fame: good. Craig Biggio and Mike Piazza weren't: fail.

Next, Jared forces us to listen to more A-Rod talk. You can probably fast forward for a couple minutes if you want to avoid it.

We neglected to talk about Yasiel Puig's arrest not because we were condoning his actions or trying to give him a pass, but simply because we forgot.

Masahiro Tanaka and Clayton Kershaw were hot topics, and both could be long- and longer-term Dodgers in the not-too-distant-near-future.

Jared went to the Winter Development Program at Dodger Stadium and caught up with real friend of the show Ross Stripling. This is kid great.

Episode dedications
Jared: Yasiel Puig
Dustin: Norihiro Nakamura

Finally, we close with Q&A. The questions were good and plentiful. We love it, even if we couldn't understand a few of them.

We'll probably continue to record every other week, or as news warrants (Tanaka signs), during the winter.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 65 - Hall of Fame, Mattingly, prospects

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I ring in the new year with fresh Dodger content.

First, we touch on today's Hall of Fame results by revealing out hypothetical ballots. Jared was unusually excited about his.

The Dodgers and Don Mattingly finally agreed to a contract extension. It's reportedly a 2-year extension, with the first year of the deal beginning in 2014. Basically, the contract option that vested after last season was torn up and replaced with a new deal. I like the deal, Jared is "so-so" on it.

The Dodgers announced stadium upgrades, which Jared details.

They also announced the signing of five more international prospects, four of whom have somewhat difficult names to pronounce.

Jared is attending the Dodgers' Winter Development Program today, and he hopes to get some good audio of some of the Dodger prospects in preparation for spring training.

Episode dedications
Jared: Jose Parra
Dustin: 1965 world-champion Dodgers

Finally, we close with Q&A. The questions were light this week, but we'll chock it up to a holiday hangover.

We'll probably continue to record every other week, or as news warrants, during the winter.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 64 - Uribe, Howell, scouts, top prospects

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I recap the uneventful Winter Meetings and other happenings in Dodger land.

The Dodgers didn't do anything at the meetings, but they re-signed Juan Uribe and J.P. Howell in the last four days -- both of which were solid deals.

The Dodgers also bolsted their scouting department by adding six new scouts, while elevating two guys -- Josh Bard and Aaron Sele -- to professional scouts. Two of the new hires include Peter Bergeron and Ron Mahay.

Jared released his Top 55 prospects list for 2014. I grill him a little, but not as much as I could have. Joc Pederson tops his list. I'll be releasing my Top 50 prospects in January.

Episode dedications
Jared and Dustin: Paul Lo Duca

As usual, we close with Q&A. They were a little lighter than in episodes past, but it's the holiday season after all.

We'll probably continue to record every other week, or as news warrants, during the winter.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 63 - Haren, Kemp/Ethier rumors, prospects

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I drone on endlessly about rumors... for 88 minutes.

The Hot Stove might literally be on fire, as baseball saw a myriad of moves on Tuesday -- none of which were made by the Dodgers. They're just lying in wait.

News did break of Brian Wilson's potential re-signing with the Dodgers. We both like it.

Matt Kemp's name keeps coming up in trade rumors -- most prominently with the Mariners. We discuss some potential trade scenarios, though, neither of us want the Dodgers to move Kemp. Andre Ethier trade scenarios are also discussed.

Dan Haren signed with the Dodgers since we last record, something I wanted to happen and something we both liked.

Ronald Belisario was non-tendered, something I wanted to happen while Jared seemed a little hesitant to get on board with.

Baseball America released its Top 10 Dodger prospects for 2014, and we talk at length about the rankings.

Episode dedications
Jared: Angel Pena
Dustin: Jon Meloan

As usual, we close with Q&A. We had a ton of them, which we really appreciate.

We'll probably continue to record every other week, or as news warrants, during the winter.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 62 - Offseason rumors, awards, Rule 5/AFL

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I somehow record one of the longest episodes in the show's history, despite not having a whole lot to talk about.

We wrap up awards season and I divulge my Internet Baseball Writers Association of America ballot.

Tim Wallach was officially announced as Don Mattingly's bench coach. Bully.

Offseason rumors abound, and the Dodgers are mentioned with some good players and some not-so-good players. We also say goodbye to Nick Punto and Skip Schumaker.

The 40-man roster deadline is tonight and we discuss who we would add to protect from December's Rule 5 Draft.

The Arizona Fall League is over and Corey Seager had a "meh" showing. Not surprising for a 19-year-old in his first full season of ball.

The Dodgers hired an executive away from Washington to be a national crosschecker in the form of Roy Clark. Great hire.

Episode dedications
Jared and Dustin: Jose Nunez

As usual, we close with Q&A. Here's hoping for some more good ones next week!

We'll probably continue to record every other week, or as news warrants, during the winter.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 61 - Awards, Kershaw, Wallach, plans

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I divulge our off-season plans for the Dodgers.

But first, we touch on awards season. Jared gives his picks for each major award. I voted in the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America, so I won't make my ballot public until the results are announced. Don't worry, it'll happen next week.

Clayton Kershaw said he's "curious" about free agency. Jared freaks out a bit while I'm calm and cool about it.

Tim Wallach lost out to Brad Ausmus for the Detroit Tigers' job and Lloyd McClendon for the Seattle Mariners' job. Now, he could be Don Mattingly's bench coach. At worst, he'll be the team's third base coach again.

We try to make our off-season plans as realistic as possible. We also throw in a few curveballs and unexpected transactions. Hope you enjoy. I'll have my off-season plan in written form come Friday.

Episode dedications
Jared: Chan Ho Park
Dustin: Chan Ho Park (but just to be different, Josh Beckett)

Then, we close with Q&A, which were pretty good this week. Keep it up!

We'll probably continue to record every other week, or as news warrants, during the winter.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 60 - NLCS review, Guerrero, Kershaw, more

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I lament the end of the Dodgers' season after losing 4-2 in the 2013 National League Championship Series. Go Red Sox.

But before this, Jared paid tribute to the recently departed Alex Castellanos. He was designated for assignment late last week (and was traded to Boston on Wednesday).

Surprisingly, we don't spend a ton of time on that series. Instead, Don Mattingly and his Monday press conference was the topic of a lot of discussion. I'm still not sold he's going to be back, but the longer he's still the Dodger manager after Monday, the better.

The Dodgers finally signed Alexander Guerrero after trying multiple times. He should be the team's starting second baseman for the foreseeable future.

Clayton Kershaw, despite a terrible Game 6, is in line for a huge payday. It seems like we've been saying this for awhile, but, unlike Mattingly returning, I am confident this deal will get done before the start of the 2014 season.

Stop me if you've heard this one: Matt Kemp had another surgery. This time, it was his ankle. He had shoulder surgery a few weeks ago. Here's hoping he comes back healthy for 2014, even if it isn't for the start of the season.

David Price rumors are still floating around. We do our best to sift through everything and give our opinion on the situation. Anytime you can add an elite pitcher, it certainly isn't a bad thing (see: Zack Greinke).

Episode dedications
Jared: Alex Castellanos
Dustin: Masao Kida (even if Jared wouldn't let me say it)

Then, we close with Q&A, which were plentiful. Keep it up!

We'll probably record every other week, or as news warrants, during the winter.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 59 - NLDS review, NLCS preview, Price

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and rejoice in the Dodgers' NLDS victory over the Atlanta Braves. We give a thorough review of the series.

Then, we talk about the Dodgers' next opponent in the NLCS -- the St. Louis Cardinals. It's going to be a long, good series between the two best teams in the National League.

Andre Ethier could be fully back for this series, which gives the Dodgers' lineup more depth. Hanley Ramirez continues to mash and Juan Uribe is just the best.

David Price rumors are already floating, and many have the Dodgers linked to the former Cy Young award winner. While it's too soon to look toward the offseason, a Clayton Kershaw-Zack Greinke-Price trio wouldn't be half-bad, no? But I wouldn't give up both Corey Seager and Julio Urias to get him, though.

The Arizona Fall League started on Tuesday, and Seager had a solid debut. There isn't a lot of high-end talent there from the Dodgers, but Seager is the guy to keep an eye on.

Episode dedications
Jared: Kelly Wunsch
Dustin: Ismael Valdez (honorable mention to Guillermo Mota)

Then, we close with Q&A, which were, unfortunately, lacking. Step it up next episode, folks.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 58 - Dodgers vs. Braves NLDS preview

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I give an abbreviated preview of the Dodgers' first-round matchup against the Braves.

We're both confident the Dodgers will emerge victorious, but the Braves aren't exactly going to be a cake walk, either.

Matt Kemp is out for the playoffs, which sucks. Andre Ethier is questionable for the first round, which also sucks.

Scott Schebler and Zach Lee were named Dodger minor-league player and pitcher of the year, just as I did.

Jared gives a brief recap of the Sixth Annual Dodger Blogger night, which I was unfortunately unable to attend. I'll be there next year, though.

Episode dedications
Jared: Chad Billingsley
Dustin: Billingsley and Brian Falkenborg

Then, we close with Q&A, which were, unfortunately, lacking. Step it up next episode, folks.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 57 - Dodgers clinch, pool, Ryu, Nolasco

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I chat about the Dodgers clinching the National League West title for the first time since 2009, and the resulting celebration in the sacred Diamondbacks' swimming pool.

Then we delve into a discussion about some Dodgers who may or may not have peed in said pool. It's not classy, but who among you can say you've never peed in a pool?

After far too much talk about urine, we actually get around to talking baseball.

We talk about the ideal opponenets for the Dodgers' on their path to the World Series. As of now, it looks like they're going to play the Braves or the Cardinals. I'll take Atlanta.

Hyun-Jin Ryu pretty much clinched the No. 3 spot in the Dodgers' postseason rotation, and not just because Ricky Nolasco has been bad in his last four starts.

Jared has a review of Rookie Ball, with guys like Victor Gonzalez and Jacob Scavuzzo getting ample mention.

Episode dedications
Jared: Stu Pederson
Dustin: Luke Prokopec

Then, we close with Q&A, which consisted of mostly urine and playoffs.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 56 - Kemp, Ramirez, injuries, Guerrero

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I chat about the Dodgers' recent struggles as Tuesday night's Dodger game is taking place. Spoiler alert: they won 9-3 and the Dodgers are one win (today or tomorrow) from clinching the National League West title.

Matt Kemp made his triumphant return. Well, it was supposed to be, as Don Mattingly sent him up in a crucial situation only for him to strikeout. Fortunately, he looked like the Matt Kemp of old last night, going 4-for-4 with two doubles (one that would have been a home run in most any other stadium in baseball) and three RBI. Welcome back, Matt.

The Dodgers also have a rash of injuries to deal with in the season's final two weeks. The aforementioned Kemp is coming back, Hanley Ramirez came back (and he looks good to go again), Carl Crawford has a bad back and Andre Ethier has a sparined ankle. Here's hoping everyone is good to go in a couple weeks.

Alexander Guerrero may or may not be a thing. The latest is he signed with Scott Boras, making his previous two agreements with the Dodgers null and void. At this rate, I'd rather the Dodgers go after someone else at second base come 2014.

The Dodgers are sending Onelki Garcia, Yimi Garcia, Shawn Tolleson and Michael Thomas to the Arizona Fall League to go along with Brian Cavazos-Galvez, Pratt Maynard, Chris O'Brien and Corey Seager.

Episode dedications
Jared: Hong-Chih Kuo
Dustin: Pedro Astascio

Finally, we get to listener questions. There were a lot of really good ones. Please, keep them coming.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 55 - Dodgers, Uribe, Guerrero, Garcia

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I talk about the humbling sweep at the hands of the Cincinnati Reds. And no, it's not the end of the world.

Juan Uribe had a hell of a game, belting three home runs on Monday night. This entire season has pretty much made up for the first two horrific seasons he spent in Dodger Blue.

We touch on Onelki Garcia's promotion to the majors and how the Dodgers plan to use him this season and in the future. Too bad he walked the only hitter he faced last night.

The Dodgers are closing in on signing their second baseman of the future in Alexander Guerrero. Jared and I both like the move, but I like it a bit more than he does.

We also talk about other Dodgerness and how the Dodgers are looking for October. Spoiler alert: they're looking pretty good.

Episode dedications
Jared: Orel Hershiser
Dustin: Russell Martin

Finally, we get to listener questions. There were a ton of them. Please, keep them coming.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 54 - Kershaw, Kemp, Young, Ethier, more

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I talk about Clayton Kershaw's "struggles." He did struggle in his last start, but it was in Coors Field, so it's to be expected.

Matt Kemp's rehab isn't going well, which I wrote about on Tuesday at Yahoo! Sports.

Michael Young and Edinson Volquez were acquired the for the stretch run, becuase the Dodgers absolutely needed two below-average players at their respective positions.

Andre Ethier has stepped up in the last couple of months. He's making a claim to remain with the team following the season.

Zack Greinke is doing Zack Greinke things. He's been flat-out dominant in his last 11 outings.

With a 13 1/2 game lead in the division, Don Mattingly is going to take the liberty of resting his regulars so they're ready come October. There's nothing wrong with that.

The Loons and Quakes begin their playoff series today. It'll be interesting to see how the Loons fare with Julio Urias shut down for the playoffs.

I recap my trip to Southern California. I saw the Quakes in Rancho Cucamonga on Saturday night and had the pleasure and honor of being in the press box at Dodger Stadium on Sunday -- an experience I won't soon forget. Also, a big thanks to True Blue LA's Eric Stephen for showing me the ropes. It made the experience that much better.

Finally, we get to listener questions. After some doubt, the folks came through with some good ones just before recording time. Keep it up.

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Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin

Podcast: 'Dugout Blues' episode 53 - Puig, Kershaw, Nolasco, Seager, Urias

On this episode of "Dugout Blues," Jared Massey (Dodger Diamond) and I talk about all things Dodgers as they march toward the National West Division title after an unexpected, unscheduled week off (thanks, Jared).

Ricky Nolasco was fantastic on Wednesday and has been flat-out great in his last two starts. Looks like that trade is working out pretty well for the Dodgers thus far.

Yasiel Puig has been the focus of the media for the last couple of weeks, capping it off with a (justified) benching by Don Mattingly yesterday. Jared and I talk about this for an extended period of time.

Clayton Kershaw had a decent start on Tuesday, but the Dodgers still lost. He wasn't as sharp as usual, but his ERA technically went down after giving up one earned run in 5 2/3 innings. He'll be just fine.

I'm going to Southern California this weekend. I'll be in Rancho Cucamonga on Saturday night and at Dodger Stadium Sunday. It looks like Matt Kemp will be with the Quakes while I'm there. I was going to Rancho to see Corey Seager, but getting to see Kemp is quite the treat.

Seager has struggled since his promotion to High-A. It's nothing to be concerned about, though. He's 19.

Speaking of youngsters, Julio Urias, 17, made his final home start of the regular season on Wednesday. He could end his debut season with a 2.48 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 7.3 H/9, 2.7 BB/9, 11.1 K/9, 4.19 K/BB. Dayum.

We finish up with some listener questions. There were tons of them and they were awesome. Please, please, please keep them coming.

Libsyn link
Direct link
iTunes link

Look for new episodes of "Dugout Blues" every Wednesday. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and review us on iTunes. We want to make this the best podcast we can so we're always looking for suggestions and ways to improve.

If you have questions you'd like us to answer or certain topics/players you want to hear more about, feel free to email us (ladugout@gmail.com or feelinkindablue@gmail.com) or send us messages on Twitter (@Dodger_Diamond or @FeelinKindaBlue). You can also "Like" the podcast on Facebook. We always welcome audience participation.

Image credit: Joe Martin