One of the best parts about the job is coming to the park early to watch the process until game time. There are only two guys on the field. A groundskeeper raking the mound and a Dodger jogging in the outfield.
It’s like time-lapse photography. The place will gradually fill.
Dodger Stadium has age to it, but it’s immaculate how they keep it up. And, like the Yankees, this is an organization proud of its past.
There are photographs from every era. Koufax, Drysdale, Wills, Garvey. There are two in the pressroom that are really sweet. One is of Jackie Robinson stealing home. Another is of Walter Alston in spring training riding a bike.
There are three media people in the box. Me, somebody from the LA wire services and Ron Darling, who’s prepping for his broadcast. Some athletes-turned-TV broadcasters stroll in at the last minute, but Darling isn’t one of them. He’s been here for a while going over his notes. A real pro.
Have to run now. Need to write something about the bullpen. The innings are starting to pile up.
I’ll catch up to you later.