Turning The NL West Blue: Recapping Drei’s Journey’s Through The Yards of The NL West

It’s a baseball fan’s dream to venture to all 30 MLB parks. Along the way, some minor league yards and an international yard or two may be on the list. As for me, I still got a ways to go before I hit up all 30. But prior to this season, I made it a personal goal to catch a Dodger game in all NL West yards all in the same season.

Though I wasn’t the best good luck charm on the road this season, the Dodgers have more than held their own as they prepare themselves for a 7th straight NL West title and another deep October run. 

The journey through the NL West was an exciting one. Each yard and city has it’s own story. And of course, each yard has it’s own personality. 

I’ve always believed that the best yards in baseball reside here in the NL West. Putting aside my personal biases toward our beloved Chavez Ravine, how do the rest of the yards in the NL West stack up with Drei?

4. Chase Field: Arizona DiamondBacks, Visited 8/31/2019

Of the 5 yards in the NL West, this is easily my least favorite. Having said that, there still some redeeming factors that make Chase Field enjoyable, such as the Friday’s Front Row Bar & Grill above left field and it’s patio that gives fans an opportunity to dine with friends and family while taking in a ballgame. 

Kid n Drei pregaming at Friday’s before the Dodgers-DBacks game, 8/31/2019

The retractable roof is a nice convenience from the scorching desert weather and on that rare occasion when the yard is filled, as it was on this evening as a Chase Field record crowd of over 50,000 we’re on hand (You can thank us Dodgers fans for bumping up those numbers…), the atmosphere can be electric. 

Aesthetically, this is decidedly the least attractive of the other 4. Though the roof is a nice convenience, when closed, you get the feel of watching a game inside a huge airport hangar. Or as my former supervisor who now resides in Phoenix once told me, it has the excitement of going to Costco.  

Though established in 1998, just 2 years before Oracle Park, The Snakes are looking for new digs. Though Chase Field is only 21 years in existence, we’re in the era of the disposable ballpark. 

So Chase Field may not rank so highly among ballpark travelers and baseball fans. It’s main signature feature is a pool that in only available to private groups. But after only 21 years is a new yard really necessary?

3. Coors Field: Colorado Rockies, Visited 6/29-30

My favorite mascot among division rivals, Dinger! 

If there’s one thing Dinger and I have in common, it’s our disdain toward that Seal up in San Francisco. 

Of the other 3, it’s very easy to put the remaining NL West trio in any order. Coors Field, opened for business in 1995 is the 3rd oldest yard in the Senior Circuit behind Wrigley Field and Dodger Stadium. Not bad company to be with for a yard soon approaching it’s 25th year. 

Coors Field. Established 1995

Opened for business 3 years after Oriole Park in Baltimore, Coors Field opened it’s gates at the height of the 90’s retro yard craze. I’ve often stated that the term retro is often overused. However, with Coors Field, the elements within the yard justify it’s status, or at least it’s exterior, blending in with the continuously developing LoDo neighborhood… 

Greetings From LoDo, Blue Dog !!!

With the Rockies in playoff contention at the time of our visit, Coors Field was filled to capacity during the 2 games we came. Coming off of last year’s playoff appearance after finishing one game behind The Blue, there was a buzz felt throughout the weekend. The Blue would split the two games that my buddy Josh and I attended. 

Recent changes to Coors Field was the elimination of outfield upper deck seats behind right field, replaced with The Rooftop. It’s a great social spot for the casual fan and a great way to get in the yard on the cheap. But if you come to ACTUALLY watch the game, get yourself a seat, even if you land one on the Purple Row.

The landscape beyond CF add’s to Coors Fields charm, surrounded by local natural rocks and greenery complimented by a water display. Hey Blue Dog! You sure like traveling with Drei !!!

If you should be so daring, do try the Rocky Mountain Oysters at least once. Taste’s like chicken!!!

If that’s not enough, try out the Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout at nearby Wynkoop Brewery. 

This Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout got a good deep malty touch…

See you made a new friend Blue Dog!!!

2. Petco Park: San Diego Padres, Visited 5/5/2019

Opened in 2004 Petco Park definitely screams San Diego, with it’s exposed white beams and it’s navy blue seats. With all the so-called retro yards opened in the 90’s, Petco bucked the trend sans the Western Metal Supply Co. Building. 

Western Metal Supply Co. Building, from the outside…

Daytrips to San Diego are a regular occurrence for the Dodger Blue Faithful as many a Dodger Blue clad fan makes the trek down I-5. Next to Coors Field, Petco may have the best neighborhood vibe of the yards here in the west, with it’s location right next to the Gaslamp. 

The Garv. First number ever retired by the Padres. Of course it took a Dodger to accomplish this feat…

And finally, again putting all biases aside and to the dismay of some…

1.  Oracle Park: San Francisco Giants, Visited 5/1/2019

Soon to be in it’s 20th year, Oracle Park is now under it’s 4th name. In spite of certain locals of all ages, including some old enough to be my grandfather, personally wishing me ill will, I really enjoy Oracle and The City. 

Though The Blue would fall on a Buster Posey walk-off, on a personal note, my record over the years at Pac Bell/SBC/AT&T/Oracle Park is 10-9. The Portwalk…

Oracle Park is one of those yards if your visiting for the first time you’ll want to arrive early to check out the various viewing points. Before setting foot inside Oracle take a stroll along the portwalk. Check out the distant views of the bay and the kayaker’s setting up shop along McCovey Cove. Cody Bellinger has already deposited one to The Cove. It’s only a matter of time Joc drop’s one in…

If you end up in Oracle’s upper reaches, don’t see it as a bad thing. Next to PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Oracle has one of the big’s most distant picturesque views with The Bay as the backdrop…

 

As for the food, if you really wanted to you could spend the whole game on a food run. On this night, I went with the 40 clove garlic chicken sandwich and garlic fries. Mints optional…

So there’s my wrap around the NL West. I can now say I’ve chased The Blue in every NL West yard in one season. Here’s more from my visits to Oracle Park, Petco Park, Coors Field Day 1, Coors Field Day 2 and Chase Field. 

 

As if I didn’t have enough, I also had a chance to catch The Blue in Charm City, Baltimore. Charm City report coming soon…

 

 

 

 

Sunday Night Tale: Beatz N Bitez…Another Kid n Drei Tale

Hungry Kid? That’s one BIG APPLE! The Blue sure took a big bite out of The Big Apple this weekend…

Hey Kid! You ain’t the only one who had a Big Apple appetite this weekend. Some other Kid in Blue been crushing those apples this weekend…

4️⃣4️⃣7️⃣ feet. #Crushed pic.twitter.com/bG5crGaEss

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) August 7, 2017

 

 Hey, Drei’s got a big appetite for apples too…

As first year broadcaster Joe Davis has said…2017…Moment after moment…

Extra Innings…Beats by Kid

Also featuring Mid City DJ Reno Sparks

 

Ballpark Budget Travel…The Megabus Experience…L.A. to The Bay…4/25/2017

Planning ahead for a trip can be a chore. Saving up for one can be even more. Fortunately for me, here in L.A. I have Megabus as an option. With it’s fares as low as $1, you can’t be that. Of course, there’s a caveat. More on that later…

 Union Station, Monday night, 4/24. Patiently waiting…

With the red-eye cheduled to leave at 10 past 11, our bus, originating from Anaheim is running late. Though Megabus’s on time performance can be spotty at times, I’ve never had any serious issues. 

With our bus arriving just past midnight, we are greeted by a somewhat surly driver. After another pickup at Burbank, the ride goes smoothly. 

 Pit stop, Lost Hills. Always nice to step out for some fresh air…

 Gotta take my Magic Gnome to hostile territory…

After a pit-stop, it’s smooth sailing to The Bay making a brief stop at the West Oakland BART Station to drop off Oakland bound passengers. The West Oakland BART stop is a good location for those heading to an A’s game or elsewhere in the East Bay…

Tuesday morning, 4/25. SF Megabus Stop. In the distance, AT&T Park. See the floodlights…

Though we left L.A. about 90 minutes past scheduled departure, we would arrive to Baghdad by the Bay only 45 past our ETA, 15 minutes before 8. With a whole day ahead, arriving 45 minutes late, all things considered wasn’t so bad.  

 Tuesday Morning, McCovey Cove…

 That beanie comes in handy up north. 

As mentioned earlier, Drei had a whole day ahead of him, a whole day to Cruise The Streets of San Francisco…

From Market & Powell, through The Haight…The Panhandle to Golden Gate Park, Drei sure got around The Streets of San Francisco…Drei even got to check out The Summer of Love 50th Anniversary Exhibit at the De Young Museum. 

Prior to that evening’s game, I had a chance to take in some sights and eats from The Garden at AT&T Park.

Thanks to some media connections, I was able to make the most out of the minimum. Even without connections, the Megabus still does help on the wallet, especially when you’re just doing this for the day and into the night. 

Our Boys in Blue would take down the hated ones, thanks of course to Kid K, who just seems to thrive on pitching in hostile territory…

 Time to head home…

The departure time back to L.A. would be a quarter past midnight. As I boarded my bus, the driver who checked off my reservation quipped that I was the $1 man. Apparently, the $1 fare is to that lucky passenger who snatches it first once Megabus releases their sale dates. After that, the fares gradually goes up, starting at $5 to as much as $41 pending ticket sales and date of purchase. Friday and Sunday seem to have the high priced fares as many college students rely on their service. 

In all, including the $1 processing fee each way, my trip to The Bay was a grand total of $4 ! Of course, the caveat to that is you have to know far ahead of time, at least 2 months, when you plan to travel. Also, you must constantly monitor the Megabus site when their fares are released. A good way to do that is to follow them on Twitter on turn on their notification alerts. 

The ride back to L.A was much smoother. A win by The Blue most certainly helped. Heck, we would even arrive 15 minutes ahead of schedule. 

The Megabus experience, with proper preparation, can be an adventure. Honestly, the redeye, which for me, acts as mobile lodging, is geared more for the single and budget minded traveler. Many passengers have shared their tales on Megabus, but it is what it is. For $1 each way, you can’t beat budget travel.

Feeling adventurous enough to do Megabus throughout other parts of the country en route to your ballpark travels? Check out this Megabus Tutorial for more on how to do your ballpark journey on a budget. 

Stay tuned for Drei’s next Megabus adventure…Coming Soon…

Drei’s Tale…Crusin’ The Streets of San Francisco…Turning The Bay Blue

Leading Off…

For those of you old enough to remember that classic crime drama and that opening theme with that voice-over guy…If only I had that voice-over dude to narrate for me…

“The Streets of San Francisco, a DodgerDrei Production…”

Starring…

Magic Gnome

Also Starring

 Magic Gnome’s Sidekick, Blue Dog…

With Special Guest Star…

Sourdough Sam

Tonight’s Episode…Turning The Bay Blue

Cruising The Streets…McCovey Cove, Tuesday Morning 4/25/2017

Drei here…It’s been awhile since Drei has cruised through The Streets of Baghdad By The Bay…Upon arriving Tuesday morning, April 25th, though not as cold as I expected, Drei still comes prepared for that cool San Fran breeze that comes off The Cove…

The streets around McCovey Cove has changed since Leslie Nielsen once cruised this part of town (Yes, I am serious…)

As you can see, the building next to the Lefty O’Doul Bridge along 3rd Street is still there, used today for mixed use…

Terry A Francois Blvd, pictured above. The area around McCovey Cove as well as AT&T Park was once an industrial part of town. Today, trees line Terry A Francois Blvd, providing gorgeous views of the cove and the bay beyond…

The trail along Terry A Francois Blvd behind the trees. In the distance is a statue of the man who the cove is named after, Willie McCovey. A miniature ballfield is next to the statue for future big leaguers…

The view of AT&T Park from the Lefty O’Doul Bridge…

The morning sunrise from the portwalk beyond right field. Even as a Dodger fan, I gotta admit, this makes for a lovely morning stroll…

Hey, it’s the Magic Gnome going for his morning walk…

Kid K has a great history up here…We’ll check back from The Cove later on…Hey ! Magic Gnome’s sidekick, Blue Dog finally joins in…

Cruising The Streets…Market and Powell

Yo, Magic Gnome ! Ready to hop on one of those classic cable cars? Car 24 is waiting behind you. 24 is a very popular number among the locals…

Can’t forget Blue Dog now…

Cruising The Streets…Cruising The Haight

While Magic Gnome and Blue Dog are enjoying their cable car ride, Drei decides to take a cruise up The Haight. Love is preached a lot in these parts going back to some Summer of Love, 1967…

The “Quiet Beatle”. One year after The Fab Four would perform at Candlestick Park their final concert ever, George Harrison would pay a visit to The Haight…

 Peace and Love

The visit to The Haight wasn’t exactly what George expected…

From The Haight, we discover that a street is named after a certain Kid K who will be taking the hill that evening. For whatever reason, the names Haight and Clayton go hand in hand up in these parts…

On the corner of Haight and Clayton…

“Yo Magic ! What up Blue Dog? Even up here, they give Kid K the ultimate tribute…”

As we continue to Cruise The Haight, we cruise past the complex where James Marshall Hendrix once resided…

Drei has to wonder, why The Red House and not purple ?

 “Hey Magic! You still a huge fan of Jimi Hendrix? Of course Dog! We used to blast Purple Haze all the time! My good pal from Boston, Larry, hated on Purple Haze every time we blasted it on Manchester and Prairie…”

“Yo Magic! What’s the big deal about this corner. DOG! 50 years ago in the Summer of ’67, people came form all over to celebrate Love and Peace on this corner of Haight and Ashbury…Haight? Magic, we’ve heard that word “Haight” a lot from the locals. We’re just trying to turn this town Blue while spreading peace and love…”

Cruising The Streets…The Panhandle

This park-like path just north of The Haight was the site of some free concerts among others Jefferson Airplane, The Grateful Dead and even Jimi Hendrix…

 

Looks like the Magic Gnome is waiting for a one on one pickup game…

” I’ll take anyone one on one…Even that number 30 across The Bay, right here baby !!!”

“Yo Magic, how ’bout we go two on two against those ballers…Heck Magic, after we take care of these two I say we take on Stephen and his sidekick Draymond…DOG! HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO TELL YOU NOT TO BE SUCH A HOT DOG !!!”

Cruising The Streets…Golden Gate Park

But first, a quick cruise back through The Haight…

 The legend…Jerry Garcia

Drei and Jerry, on the corner of Haight and Cole. Hey Jerry, I hear you and some guy named Ben have an ice cream shop down the street on Ashbury…

Hippie?

Or Hipster?

 Hey look…It’s Sourdough Sam ! That lovable Niner mascot who claims to be both the OG hippie turned hipster. Sammy insists we go with him to Hippie Hill…Summer of Love 50th Anniversary exhibit from the De Young Museum to be featured soon…

When his Niners weren’t playing games at nearby Kezar Stadium, Sammy spent many a day up on that darn hill, especially in 1967 (I don’t think Sammy remembers anything from ’67….) About that Summer of ’67…Or the months leading to that Summer of Love…

Hey Sammy, looks like you we’re lost among the throng. All looks calm now compared to 1967…

Never stop preaching Peace and Love…That’s quite a view from Hippie Hill. Speaking of Hills, and Cruising, back in L.A. Kid Marley Marlz has this beat. For some reason this beat from Kid would go perfect up here…

Hey Kid, you look nice and warm back home in sunny L.A….

Hey Sammy ! Looks like Magic Gnome and Blue Dog came to join you up Hippie Hill. I wonder how their 2 on 2 went…

Cruising The Streets…3rd and King

After cruising the streets from The Cove to The Haight, we now head back to the ballpark on the corner of 3rd and King. As we enter the ballpark, we discover that a garden is located beyond the center field fence…

 Yes folks, that is a garden inside the ballpark. 

Lets check out the garden…

Magic Gnome making himself feel at home. That Giants fan be askin’ “Who let that Dodger Gnome in?”

Even with all the Dodger Blue, our Magic Gnome gives this garden, dare Drei say it, a Magic Blue Touch ?

Hey! These fellow Dodger fans found you Magic !!! All this cruising got Drei hungry…

That “Dodger Blueberry Shortcake” sure looks good. They must have known we we’re coming…

Now THAT is a feast ! Drei really liked that cauliflower flatbread on the left. They even have a fennel sausage flatbread here in the garden. Everything was soooooooo good !!!

Hey, Sourdough Sam even joined us !!!

HUGE SHOUTOUT to our master-chefs and their staff !!!

Drei THANKS YOU for all your hospitality, even with all my Dodger Blue on !!! Drei will have a feature on The Garden at AT&T Park both here and on Stadium Journey soon…

 It was quite a day…For Drei…In The City By The Bay…Drei even snagged a BP shot…

It really was quite a day for Drei…Cruising The Streets of San Francisco…Painting the Town Blue…Feeling the love from the locals…From McCovey Cove to The Haight and back (Again we wonder, why all the reminders to Drei, Magic and Blue Dog about Haight?) Oh yeah, all this capped off by a win by The Blue Crew. We sure turned The Bay…Blue

In the City By The Bay, on the days leading to the 50th Anniversary of The Summer of Love, for two cities and teams that have a long storied rivalry, it is possible that between us, Peace and Love (And good food) can exist…

“Always great to hang with you up here Blue Dog…Good Times Sammy! I won’t tell you buddy Lou Seal that we kicked it together…”

Time to head back to L.A.

 

 

The Trade Talks Continue…Paying Tribute to Vin Against MLB’s Wishes…

 (Snapchat @good_drei)

 Chris Archer may be the Tampa Rays ace for the time being, but talks of acquiring him via trade still loom, as well as possibly giving up our top pitching prospect Julio Urias for White Sox ace Chris Sale. The Blue has also shown interest in acquiring some lumber, looking at the the Reds Jay Bruce as well as Rockies outfield Carlos Gonzalez, the latter of which the Dodgers have plenty of familiarity with. 

A Double Standard Here Huh ?

Guess which @Dodgers player is rocking these AWESOME cleats today. pic.twitter.com/hzkSip9V3o

— Cut4 (@Cut4) July 17, 2016

The same people who run Cut4 are the same people who are threatening Puig with a  $5,000 fine if he should have THE NERVE to sport the WIN FOR VIN cleats. A double standard here huh considering the shoutout from those at MLB. Wasn’t it also last year when Yoenis Cespedes sported a yellow armband to call upon a parakeet?

9th Inning…Forget The Pokemon !!!

Who needs Pokemon, we got our Pet Minion Dave, right Kid? ” Is That Right Drei? “

Extra Innings…Kid’s Tribute to Vin

Kid Marley Marlz latest beats, paying tribute to our favorite Dodger Blue storyteller. This is just a small sample. Kid will have another tribute later this season….

https://soundcloud.com/glutenfreesounds/vin-scully?fb_action_ids=10207059961919573&fb_action_types=soundcloud%3Apublish

Of course, check out Kid’s other beats as well…

As always, Kid with The Beats…Drei with The Tales…

 The pennant race is just heating up…KID !!!!

 

When I’m 64

 MLBcomblogs recently released their 2015 Top 100 fan mlb.com blogs. For the 2nd time in 3 years, my blog has made the list. ( I really should say 3rd year in a row but last year’s stats weren’t released, mlb.com/blogs ! LOL ) At number 64, my page has jumped an enormous 32 spots from my number 96 ranking in 2013 ! As always, I thank you,the readers, the baseball fans, the Dodgers fans for stopping by. A lot of passion also goes behind doing this blog. Also, a shoutout to other fellow Dodger bloggers who made the Top 100 list as well with their rankings…

Top 100 Dodger Fan Blogs…

12. Dodger Blue World

54. cat loves the dodgers

91. Dodger Familia Thoughts

And of course, your’s truly…

64. It’s Always A Good Dre in L.A.

I have had this blog up now for 10 years, starting in December 2005 with 2006 being it’s first official season. In that time, the Dodgers have made the playoffs 6 times, winning 5 NL West titles with 3 trips to the NLCS. All that waits is that really big prize awarded deep in to late October/early November…

I’ve written and posted about countless thoughts both of the Dodgers and stuff away from The Ravine in many ways, shapes and forms. In the 10 years i’ve done this now, especially the last 3 years, my readership has really grown. There have been various changes as well. Of course, in 2005 there were not as many outlets to share my work. Today, 2016, it seems there are countless outlets, thanks to, of course, the growing amount of social media networks.

Only one active Dodger remains from that 2006 team… Yup, you guessed it ! Dre Day !!! Dodger fans, remember those nameless jerseys ? There’s Kenny Lofton and Nomar…

Will Andre continue to don the Dodger Blue ? It seems that we can never avoid the topic of whether Dre stays or goes, no matter how much we weight the pros and cons of Andre’s continued presence in the Blue. It won’t be long before he becomes a 10-5 player, Andre is owed $18 million in 2016, $17.5 next season, not exactly the price teams up for potential trades are willing to take on for an outfielder turning 34 in April. One thing Andre has shown throughout is career in the Dodger Blue is durability. Could Andre be a Dodger for life ?

 

Hey Kid !

During the last 2 years posting, i’ve received plenty of help here talent wise in many many ways, including visually…

 and lyrically, from some, “Kid”…Kid Marley Marlz, Marlon B…Always calling Drei here, VIEJO !… His talent goes beyond just skills…Street Skillz…(As usual, no off-season for The Kid…

https://soundcloud.com/reno-sparkz/street-skillz

 

Hey Kid ! Your Gluten Free Sounds got enough tracks to fill an entire album !

With Marlon B’s talents, Kid Marley Marlz and yours truly, Dodger Drei, Kid N Drei have been more than happy to bring you tale’s from and beyond…The Ravine. Hey Kid, Drei here knows when you ain’t calling Drei, VIEJO, you’re also calling Drei, Drei Beats…

But you know what kid ? Though them beats may bear my name (LOL), it’s you with the beats. Drei here just tell’s the stories. But hey, it’s what makes Kid N Drei work, Kid’s beats, Drei’s tales… How much more tale’s do Kid N Drei have ahead ? Well, Drei here says Kid’s got a lot more ahead of him and well, when it comes to making this tale work, often times, it takes a collaborative effort in ways, shapes and forms only those involved would know. Like you once told me, ” We make magic together…”, to which your “Broham” says, THANKS KID…

 Good Times Kid ! Hey Kid, since you always enjoy calling Drei, VIEJO, perhaps 2016 is the year you ACTUALLY experience a World Series Championship…

9th Inning…DH Coming to the NL ?

Not anytime soon, according to MLB commissioner Rob Manfred. As a fan, i’ve enjoyed the small things about the NL games. I’ve enjoyed them for the 35 plus year’s i’ve watched the game. Why fix it now ? Fans still flock to the games right ? The lack of the DH doesn’t seem to affect fans interest inside The Ravine as it still features the most active turnstiles year in year out. If Drei has his way, Drei says, keep the DH away from the NL. The game hasn’t suffered. Keep it in the AL if you must, but I’ve been fine without it the last 30 plus years, I’ll be ok without it for many more years to come…So, Dodger fans, for those of you who still enjoy the intricate strategies still in existence in an NL park such as our beloved Ravine, you can breathe a sigh of relief, and still enjoy the sight of one of these moments every now and then (Who says pitchers cant hit ?)

Extra Innings… Walking Off With Dre

In the 10 years I’ve had this blog up…In the 10 seasons Dre has donned The Blue, Dre has had many a clutch moment, earning him the moniker, Mr. Clutch. Many a times, Dre has sent the visiting 9 walking off…

And most recently, 8/2/2015, against the Halos…

 More Mr. Clutch moments left ahead in the Dodger Blue for Mr. Clutch ? (Photo, Jon SooHoo)

 

Some Brief After Season Thoughts… The Ravine Life

For the 27th year in a row, a World Series will not be hosted in side the walls of Chavez Ravine. To any Dodger fan born after 1988, keep your heads up, your day of glory will come eventually.

Should He Stay or Should He Go ?

While 3 consecutive post-season appearances is no small feat, the fact of the matter is whether Don Mattingly should stay or go. 

Case For…

As said above, 3 consecutive post-season appearances is definitely no small feat. Managerial post-season failure is nothing new in any sport. Bobby Cox, who guided the Braves at 14 consecutive division titles, was the winner of only one World Series title during that span.

Case Against… 

With high expectations and  a payroll of over $300 million, just making the playoffs is anything short of success to the eyes of many. Mattingly has also come under criticism for not fielding a consistent lineup as well. 

To management’s credit, the Dodgers have not made a quick knee-jerk reaction as for the fate of Donnie Baseball. It’s easy to act upon emotion. The loss to the Mets still hurts. Does Mattingly deserve all the blame ? The answer here ? No. 

Every manager gets second guessed. Mattingly, in spite of his $300 million roster, went as far as he did for what he had to work with. The Mets, one game away from a World Series appearance, are peaking at the right time anchored by their outstanding pitching, something that came under scrutiny when not talking about pitchers not named Zack or Clayton. 

Live By The Long Ball…

Well, you know the rest. The Dodgers we’re a team that scored a bulk of their runs via the long ball. If they we’rent goin’ yard, they often found themselves struggling. During the 5 games against the Mets, only 2 home runs we’re hit by the Blue, both coming late in Game 3 with the game out of hand. The inability to drive in runs without the aid of the long ball would definitely prove costly in Game 5.

Regular Season vs. Post Season

During the regular season the Cubs had a decided edge over the Mets, sweeping the season series 7-0. After knocking off the Cardinals in their NLDS, the Cubs we’re favored by many to finally snap their 117 year drought. It could still happen. However, after the Mets Game 3 victory over the Cubs, the Mets find themselves one game away from their first World Series appearance since 2000. The  regular season and post season are two different beasts in their own rights…

As much as I would like to see the Cubs end their 117 year drought, if the Mets we’re to prevail, I would not be one bit upset. After all, wouldn’t it be best to say we lost to the champs ? The fact that the Mets have been able to cruise through the NLCS to this point is really no surprise. The playoffs especially in baseball are a crap-shoot. They often say “survive and advance”. Often times, teams who fight a hard fought series and escape end up playing their best right after. Right now, that team could very well be the Mets…

9th Inning…Kid N Drei

 So we didn’t have that deep October run, Kid ! Viejo Dre says hang in there, your day will come. No Matter… through good and bad…WE LOVE L.A. !!! 

Hey, just because the season’s over, don’t mean Kid N Drei have an off-season. We may not be heard from much, but hey, we’ll still continue to keep you posted on any antics we may have, as well as some occasional beats form Kid Marley Marlz. In the meantime, check out all our fun and kid-like moments from the stands and beyond from this past 2015 season in a series we call, The Ravine Life. It was another fun season folks. Forever Dodger Blue !!!

Drei’s SUN-DAY FUN-DREI Ballpark Tale From The Ravine… A Birthday Tale With Kid Marly Marlz

Spring Training…Leading Off…

They don’t call me DodgerDrei for no reason, for DodgerDrei is always happy to spend some quality time with his newborn niece Toia. After all, it’s always good to start ’em young, right ?

32 And Still a Kid…

Featuring, As Always…

The Birthday Boy… The Kid At Heart…KID MARLY MARLZ !!!

Tonight’s number…

What could possibly be a better place to celebrate a birthday than at Chavez Ravine ? Especially against the hated ones ? 

The night would start and end on top of The Ravine by the number 32, the number once worn by Dodger legend Sandy Koufax . The idea of doing a Dodger themed birthday based around a retired number was actually suggested to me by another buddy of mine.

 Toia: ” Uncle Drei, does that mean when I turn 1, you’re going to throw me a Dodger themed birthday ? “

Drei: You know Toia, when your Uncle Drei does throw you your first Dodger birthday, some storyteller named Vin will be talking about what a precious little thing you are, with ” Not a Care In The World…”

With Kid Marlz about to turn the Big 3-2, with Kid Marlz being, well… you’ll see why he’s called Kid Marlz, and with the hated one’s from up north in town, what other way could a Kid, even this Big Kid, celebrate his birthday ?  It’s always great that even the Magic Castle up on Chavez Ravine ( What Magic Castle did you all think I was talking about ? ) is one where, here goes, a Kid…..This Kid….. The heck, KIDS OF ALL AGES …A Kid Can Be a Kid..

Kid N Drei, or My Chemical Bromance ? Uh, I think we’ll stick with Kid N Drei…Hey Kid, the big 3-2 is coming soon kid !!!

After starting off the night at the Big 3-2, we make our way inside The Ravine with Kid Marly Marlz and friends, including his mascot buddies. As for a retired number Dodger theme for Drei, Double D here has two more numbers left to look forward to ( I’ll let you all guess which numbers and yes, Double D ‘s age is up there…) So, how does a ” Kid ” celebrate his birthday at that Magic Castle we call…Chavez Ravine ?

 Hey Kid, Drei here see’s that you brought back the 2014 Foam Party and your favorite pet Minion Dave …

As for the Action on the Diamond against The Hated Ones…

A win over the hated ones always does make a great birthday gift, right Kid ?

And what better way to WALK OFF this recent homestand than with this…

You may have been a little one when The Blue last won the World Series Kid, but this year really could be our year !!! Drei’s only been saying that the last 26 years…

 Kid Marly Marlz reppin’ the WEST SIDE …

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

It was quite an enjoyable night that started and ended at 32. Perhaps this could give some of you Dodger or baseball fans an idea what kind of baseball themed birthday celebration you could throw for a buddy or loved one of yours. What’s up next from Kid N Drei ? Stay tuned… ‘Til The Next Episode

Looks like Kid Marly Marlz wants the BUBBLES to keep flowin’ through 2015…

Looks like Cindy really enjoy’s the Kid in Kid Marly Marlz…

My Chemical Bromance ? As much as Cindy loved that, I think we’ll stick with Kid N Drei… Never a dull moment with you Kid…

 Even if you are and will always be… FOREVER A KID…KID AT HEART…Drei can’t believe you’ll be turning the BiG 3-2….

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KID !!!

Game Winning Insta-Byte From the LF Pavillion…

Drei’s first game of the season…Extra Innings…Home 10th… Bases Loaded…2 out… Tied with the Mariners 5-5…Rookie at the Plate…Alex Guerrero with a chance to be the hero… From the LF Pavillion…

https://instagram.com/p/1cpaTknmHq/

 

OK, I’m sure you all would probably want Vinny’s call. I can’t say I blame you…

Drei’s Ballpark Tales…

 He’s Baaaaaaaaaack !!! It’s Kid Marly Marlz, ready for another season of Dodger Baseball !!! Here he is, with his favorite baseball mascot, The Mariner Moose, with Seattle in town. Hey, The Moose loves you too kid…

Extra Innings…

 Drei here with Kid Marly Marlz, after a thrilling win over the Mariners, and yeah, KID N DREI are ready to bring you more tales from and around the yard once again in 2015. ‘Til the Next Episode…

 

Throwback Thursday, Drei’s Ballpark Adventures…Coors Field, 8/29-30 2006

 

In the 12 plus years I’ve had a chance to travel to various MLB and MILB yards, much has changed in regards to the way we view and share our experiences. When I first started my baseball stadium journey’s, not counting yards here in California, I would look at other ballpark travelers experiences online and see what they had to share. Of course, when I started all this in 2003, digital camera’s where still on the rise, I was still using 400 film, and we we’re trying to figure a way to share our experiences instantly (At least I was). After all, back then, most of us we’re still using flip phones. No twitter or facebook, no hashtagging, no droids ( What else wasn’t in our vocabulary when I started all this in 2003 ? ) I know I got excited when I got my first camera phone. Of course it came with an attachment. Oh how far we’ve come with technology since…

Coors Field, August 29-30, 2006

Today, I share with you some of my pics from my trip to Coors Field 8 years ago. My purpose of my off-season posts of various yards i’ve visited is to share my experiences at my time of visit. With constant changes that occur in our favorite yards, it is my hope that other’s will share their experiences at the time of their visit as well and see what has changed inside these various yards over time.

Coors Field is located in the LoDo district of Denver. Opened in 1995, at the time the capacity was just over 50,000. In spite of it’s large capacity, Coors Field felt surprisingly intimate. This past season, Coors Field did some renovations, decreasing the capacity by removing a vast number of upper deck right field seats and adding a rooftop viewing area for fans to roam around and socialize while taking in the action. It is one feature I would like to experience should I return to Coors anytime soon.  

Home plate entrance

View from the CF Rockpile seats. $4 day of game back in 2006…

Coors Field’s signature feature out in centerfield, The Rockpile, with real rocks and trees that also has a water display in between innings. Hmm, some of those trees would make for some wonderful Christmas use this time of year. I wonder how many home runs have landed in the rockpile…

Visitors bullpen by The Rockpile. That’s got to be one of the most scenic bullpen settings in all of MLB. I’m guessing the visiting teams must enjoy this not only for it’s scenery but the fact that it’s distant from the stands, avoiding any potential hecklers…

Neon Artwork Outside of Coors…

More Artwork…

Mural of construction workers getting Coors all ready for action. Trivial tidbit… the batter wearing 95, yup, 95 represents the year Coors Field opened. Is it really going to be 20 since Coors Field’s opening ? 

Down the street from Coors Field’s left field entrance. I love how Coors Field just blends in with the local architecture, as is the case with many ballparks built after 1992, the year Camden Yards opened…

On This Day, 8/30/2006

Troy Tulowitzky would make his MLB debut at shortstop for the Rockies. I just wonder what kind of future this former Dirtbag from Long Beach State would have…

9th Inning With Drei…

And they say dinosaurs no longer exist ! Drei kicking it with his new buddy Dinger !!!

So, for anyone reading, particularly any Rockies fans out there who may have “stumbled” across over here, what else has changed at Coors Field that Drei and other baseball fans should look forward to in their next visit to the Mile High City ? Oh yeah, Dodger fans and of course baseball fans can never plan out their ballpark adventures to early. Planning on visiting Coors next year ? Here’s a more detailed review of Coors Field from Stadium Journey magazine .  Be sure to check out Stadium Journey for all your sports themed road trips. 

Extra Innings…

I hope you’re all having a great holiday season so far. Speaking of the holiday’s, one could never go wrong with a classic Andy Williams . After all, what are the holiday’s without some Andy Williams tunes ?