Dodgerbobble

Player Appearance: Pedro Guerrero

2013-05-11T21:06:00.000-07:00

Growing up in the 80's, one of my favorite Dodgers was Pedro Guerrero. When I found out he was going to be making an appearance at Harry's Dugout I told myself I had to get down there, especially since I missed his last public signing.

I made the trip down to Harry's Dugout with my buddy's Mike and Franz. None of us had been to Harry's before and we were all looking forward to getting Pedro's auto and checking out a new card shop.

When we arrived we notice there were just a few people hanging out, so we walked into the shop and paid for the autographs right away then waited in line. As usual we chit-chatted with everyone in line and the time flew by quickly.

Pedro was scheduled to sign autographs from 1-3:30. He arrived early and started signing right away. Pedro was signing quick and the staff was very well organized, taking our pictures and getting everyone through at a nice pace. I can't tell you how much I love an event like this. Anyway, when I got to the front of the line I told Pedro that I was a huge fan. I had him sign a Dodger Stadium 50th Anniversary baseball. He had such a nice career at Dodger Stadium plus he was a huge part of the 1981 World Series Championship team, I really felt he deserved to be on one of these commemorative baseballs.

I want to thank Pedro Guerrero and Harry's Dugout for hosting a well organized event. I can't wait for the next one. Also, it was nice hanging out with David, Alex, Andy, Andrew, Gus, Big Mike and of course Franz and Spiegel. You guys make waiting in line a lot easier.

Pre-Order Your Hanley Ramirez "I See You" Bobblehead

2013-04-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

The Dodgers will be giving away Hanley Ramirez "I See You" bobbleheads on Tuesday, April 30. For those of you who can't make it to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday, BobblesGalore.com is giving you an opportunity to pre-order one today. You can make that purchase by clicking here.

Also, if anyone out there is looking for a certain Dodger bobblehead, BobblesGalore.com has set up a page specifically for Dodger Stadium giveaways and all those hard-to-find Dodger bobbleheads. You can check that out by clicking here.

2013 Topps Hanley Ramirez Chasing History Autograph

2013-04-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

I got a little bit of a late start buying up 2013 baseball cards. The last couple of years I bought up as much as I could as soon as new product came out. This year I decided to take a different approach by waiting. In a couple of cases I've gotten some great deals by being patient.

One of those deals was this 2013 Topps Hanley Ramirez Chasing History autograph. I really wanted to pick up a Hanley certified auto when he joined the Dodgers last year, but decided to hold out til one was released with him in a Los Angeles uniform.

Hanley, who has been on the disabled list since tearing a ligament in his right thumb while playing in the World Baseball Classic, took batting practice in Baltimore last week and is trying to return in time for his bobblehead night on April 30.

Luis Cruz Dodger Bobblehead - Cruuuuuz!

2013-04-14T23:33:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of Dodger fans were wondering why the team didn't give Luis "Cochito" Cruz a bobblehead in 2013. After putting up some good numbers and becoming a fan favorite in 2012, it seemed like giving him a bobble was a no-brainer.

Well, the Dodgers may not have given Luis a bobble, but the people at BobblesGalore.com did. There are only 144 of these limited edition Forever Collectibles bobbleheads available. The gloved Cruz bobble stands in a defensive position atop a Dodger pennant base and each one is individually serial numbered to 144.

The Luis Cruz bobblehead, which will be available in July, can be pre-ordered now by clicking here. They're $35 each, but dodgerbobble.com readers can use the promo code bobblesgalore10 for a 10% discount.

Trade With Plaschke, Thy Sweater Is Argyle

2013-04-10T20:05:00.001-07:00

I've had six opportunities to get the autograph of Dodger pitcher Hyun-Jin Ryu. All six times the Korean rookie has either denied me, skipped over me or in the case of Dodgers FanFest I happened to be in the wrong line. So when my boy Greg from Plaschke, Thy Sweater Is Argyle was able to get the Ryu sig at FanFest, I saw an opportunity to get the autograph that had eluded me so many times.

Now, I didn't want to mess around because I knew Greg had waited a long time in the hot Dodger Stadium parking lot before he got Ryu's auto, so I immediately offered to overpay for the sweet spot signature. I gave up quite a bit, but I honestly didn't mind trading so much because it's one less autograph I have to worry about getting this year. You can see everything I sent Greg here.

Besides the Ryu sweet spot auto, Greg was nice enough to include a beautiful 2012 Prime Cuts Matt Kemp/Clayton Kershaw jersey/bat card.

Thanks again to Greg for this great trade. Even though it took a few weeks get done, it was well worth it. I can't wait for the next one!

Bobblehead Preview: Matt Kemp

2013-04-10T19:06:00.001-07:00

Last week the Dodgers released the image of 2013 bobblehead #2, Matt Kemp. Presented by United Healthcare, this bobblehead will be given to the first 50,000 fans in attendance on Tuesday, May 14 when the Dodgers play the Washington Nationals.

I'm really diggin' Matt's signature homerun swing on this bobble. And even though I hate that the Dodgers are giving away 10 more bobbleheads this year, I can never get enough Matt Kemp items, so I'm not hating on this one.

Adrian Gonzalez Dodger Bobblehead

2013-02-15T22:54:00.001-08:00

When Adrian Gonzalez became a Dodger last year, I couldn't wait for him to get a bobblehead. Now he's finally got one. BobblesGalore.com just released AGon's first ever Dodger bobblehead.

Limited to just 2,013, this Legends of the Diamonds bobblehead has a goatee'd Adrian in a defensive pose sitting atop a Dodger pennant base. Regular price is $39.95, but it's on sale now for $24.95. You can pick one up by clicking here. And don't forget to check out all the bobbleheads at BobblesGalore.com.

Player Appearance: Mike Piazza

2013-02-12T21:29:00.000-08:00

Former Dodger Mike Piazza's new book, "Long Shot" hit bookstores and Amazon nationwide today, but New Yorkers got a chance to pick it up one day early. As a matter of fact, Mr. Piazza was on hand at the Barnes & Noble in Manhattan Monday signing copies of his memoir. Hundreds of fans lined up in crappy NY weather to meet the catching great. One of those in line was my younger sister Karen, who was nice enough to pick up a signed copy for me.

When she arrived at B&N, her and another lady were told no more books were available. Luckily that women raised hell and they let her and my sister buy a book, making them the very last two in line. Like most book signings, no outside items were allowed and there was no personalizing or pictures with Mike.

The line outside of Barnes& Noble

I wanted to say thanks Karen for picking this up for me. I really appreciate it. Even though I didn't get to meet one of my favorite Dodgers of all-time, I'm still happy to add this to the autograph collection.

Don Sutton Gets Bobblehead Number Four

2013-02-06T19:05:00.000-08:00

The Dodgers finally announced who will get bobblehead number four in the 2013 series. Hall of Famer Don Sutton will get that honor on Thursday, June 6. The Dodgers will be playing the Atlanta Braves that night and Sutton just happens to be on the Barvos' broadcast team.

From Dodgers.com:

Hall of Fame pitcher Don Sutton will be honored with a Bobblehead Night on June 6, when the Dodgers host the Atlanta Braves.

Sutton, now a Braves announcer but for 16 seasons a mainstay of the Dodgers' rotation, has been added to an expanded lineup of 10 bobbleheads for the 2013 season.

The collection consists of Hanley Ramirez on April 30 (vs. COL), Matt Kemp on May 14 (vs. WSH), Jaime Jarrín on May 25 (vs. STL), Sandy Koufax on June 27 (vs. PHI), Adrian Gonzalez on July 11 (vs. COL), Vin Scully on July 25 (vs. CIN), Hideo Nomo on Aug. 10 (vs. TB), Rick Monday on Aug. 27 (vs. CHC) and Magic Johnson on Sept. 12 (vs. SF).

Sutton, inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998, still holds the Dodgers franchise record for wins (233), starts (533), games (550), strikeouts (2,696), innings pitched (3,814) and shutouts (52). He won 324 games in his career and was a four-time All-Star, and the Midsummer Classic's MVP Award in 1977.

I never expected Don Sutton to get one of the ten bobbles, but I think it was a great choice by the Dodgers.

First Look: Hanley Ramirez "I See You" Bobblehead

2013-01-30T17:27:00.000-08:00

We get our first look at the Hanley Ramirez "I See You" bobblehead. This is bobblehead number one in the 2013 series. It will be given away on Tuesday, April 30 when the Dodgers play the Colorado Rockies.

As usual, the details are amazing, from the facial features down to the New Balance logo on the cleats, and of course the "I See You" hand display.

Dodgers Reseda Park Dream Field Dedication

2013-01-20T22:25:00.001-08:00

It's been weeks since I've written anything. I wasn't sure if I was going to write anything on this blog ever again, but I've been inspired by the upcoming baseball season. There have been a few different events in SoCal over the last couple of weeks and I had a chance to get to a few of them. Today I'll post the Dodger Dream Field Event from last weekend.

On Saturday, January 12, the Dodgers dedicated a new Dream Field at Reseda Park. Dodger broadcaster Charley Steiner hosted the event along with Dodgers President and CEO Stan Kasten. Dodger alumni Al “The Bull” Ferrara, Lee Lacy, Ramon Martinez, Fernando Valenzuela and Steve Yeager and Dodger prospects Onelki Garcia, Matt Magill and Joc Pederson were all there to meet with fans and they also held a clinic on the field following the dedication. The dedication was scheduled to start at 10:00 am and it was open to the public. All children were welcome to take part in the day's events so there were many parents there signing their children up to work on baseball drills with the Dodgers on hand.

Reseda park is just blocks away from my home and I've been to it many time. The last time I was there though the baseball field was old and run down. When I arrived I was surprised to see how nice it looked. The Dodgers really put some work into the field.There was a new fence around the outfield, a new scoreboard, beautiful green grass and many other beautiful new features.

Just before 10:00 some of the Dodgers began arriving. I noticed Joc Pederson and Matt Magill standing around BSing, so I went and asked them each for autographs. Matt signed a card for me and I had Joc sign a ball.

When I turned around I noticed Ramon Martinez behind me. I was very excited because Ramon was one of my favorite pitchers in the 90's. I got him to sign a ball and a couple of cards for me.

After he signed a few more autographs, Ramon was pulled away for an interview, then the ceremony began. Charley Steiner introduced the three minor leaguers then the alum. Of course Fernando got the loudest round of applause. Stan Kasten, City Councilman Dennis Zine and a few other officials spoke, then the drills began with the kids. I didn't have my kids with me to take part in this, and I didn't need anymore autographs, so I decided it was time to leave.

You can see more from the Dream Field dedication here and here.

Player Appearance: Nick Punto

2012-12-25T23:26:00.001-08:00

It's late in the day, but I want to wish everyone a merry Christmas. I hope you all had a nice holiday and got everything you wanted. I got a few new Dodger items and autographs from Santa this year. I also got myself a gift last weekend, a Dodger bobblehead mini plan for 2013. I picked it up at the second to last stop of the Dodger Holiday Mall Tour at the Westfield Shopping Center in Valencia. I was there on Saturday, December 15 to meet Dodger utility man Nick Punto, who was scheduled to meet fans and sign autograph from Noon to 2:00.

I arrived at the mall about an hour before Punto was scheduled to appear. There weren't many people there and the Dodger ticket reps were setting up for the event. While waiting in line, I decided to pick up my mini plan. If you signed up for any ticket plan, you received a gift bag from the Dodgers, which was a duffel bag full of swag including a Don Mattingly bobblehead, a fleece blanket and a Dodger holiday ball signed by Fernando Valenzuela. It's on a cheapo China ball, but I'll take the Fernando auto!

After I got my ticket plan, I jumped back in line. It was almost 12 o'clock and Nick wasn't there. Finally Noon, still no Nick. The line was getting longer, more time kept passing and still no Nick. We were joking in line that maybe he was designated for assignment. At 12:45 Nick finally arrived. Apparently he went to the wrong mall. But he started signing as soon as he got there. It was one auto per person, so I got a baseball signed then jumped back in line and got a picture signed the second time around.

Thanks to Nick Punto and the Dodgers for putting on a great event and hosting this Holiday tour. Although I only made it to two of the Holiday Mall Tour stops, I was still very happy to get baseball autographs in the offseason. I've gotta give the Dodgers credit too, this was a great idea, getting the fans interested in the upcoming season and giving them incentives for buying tickets in November and December. I hope they do this again next year!

Andre Ethier 2012 LA Auto Show Appearance

2012-12-16T17:52:00.001-08:00

On Sunday, December 2, I planned on taking my kids down to the 2012 LA Auto show. This has been an annual trip for us and we were looking forward to seeing all the new cars. This year's show was held from November 30 through December 9. I was able to make it down to the Convention Center a few days earlier to meet Clippers Forward Blake Griffin and this second trip was to to see the cars.

While we were getting ready to go down to the Convention Center, I got a tip that Andre Ethier would be making an appearance that afternoon at the State Farm Insurance booth. I was heading down there anyway, so I might as well get an auto from Dre. I packed up a few items I needed signed and we headed downtown.

When we arrived, there were only three other people waiting for Ethier! I figured since there were so few people they would let us get outside items signed. Unfortunately that wasn't the case. Just minutes before Ethier came out we were told he would only be signing the provided State Farm 8x10 pictures. Although I was a little disappointed I wasn't going to get my items signed, I'm also not one to turn down an auto. The picture they provided wasn't too bad anyway.

Me and my two little monsters.

Andre was scheduled to appear from 1:00 to 2:30 and he showed up right on time, signing right away and even taking pictures with people. After we all got our autos, we decided to head to the convention. There were probably thirty people in line at that point and we could have easily gone back for more, but seriously, how many Ethier State Farm 8x10s do I need? Plus, my kids were really impatient and fidgety and wanted to get to the cars.

Although this year's Auto Show had less athlete and celebrity appearances than in previous years, it was still nice to get autographs from two of LA's bigger sports stars. Plus, the show itself is always a good time. Thanks to Andre Ethier and State Farm Insurance for the autographs and the nice meet & greet.

Tommy John And Lee Lacy Appearance

2012-12-09T12:07:00.001-08:00

I took a trip down to Frank & Sons last Saturday with Spiegel and Franz. I was there to get Tommy John's and Lee Lacy's autographs and pick up a few other things.

When we arrived, Lacy was signing autographs for free. I've got his autograph numerous times at Dodger Stadium, but I still needed to get his 1973 Topps rookie card signed, so I got that done.

There were still a couple of hours to kill before TJ signed, so we took a stroll around F&S. Someone was selling the Chick Hearn and Kareem Abdul Jabbar bobbleheads the Lakers gave away this year, so I picked up both. I'll do full posts on both bobbleheads in the future.

After picking up a couple other items at the show, we headed over to the autograph line. Pete Rose was there signing at the same time. I was tempted to get Rose as well, but passed because I've got him before and I needed to get home pretty quickly.

When we got to TJ's table, I got my baseball signed, took some pictures and put my camera away. Then Tommy made a comment on Franz's Mike Piazza T-shirt, they chatted for a minute or two, then he asked me to take my camera out of my pocket so he could take some pictures with Franz and myself. I've never had an athlete ask to take pictures before, so I was bit shocked.

As usual, I had a great time at Frank & Sons. Not only did I get to meet the legend Tommy John, I also got to see a lot of people I hadn't seen since the baseball season ended, so it was nice catching up.

Blake Griffin 2012 LA Auto Show Appearance

2012-12-05T22:17:00.000-08:00

The last couple of years the Los Angeles Auto Show has had some great athlete appearances, so I was looking forward to this year's convention. The 2012 show opened Friday and they got off to a nice start. Like last year, Kia Motors brought in their big spokesman Clippers forward Blake Griffin for an autograph session. Blake was scheduled to appear from 3-5.

I arrived at the Convention Center at at 1:00 and there weren't many people in line. We were told one autograph per person and he would not be signing outside items. I kind of expected this, so I didn't bring anything in. At 2:00 wristbands were handed out, so I decided to check out some of the cars while Mrs.Bobble held our spot in line.

After checking out some new cars I got back in line. Blake arrived right at 3:00 and started signing and taking pics right away. As usual, Blake was very nice and talked with everyone for a few moments. This year's 8x10 was very nice too. Much more impressive than last year's picture.

I had a great time at the Convention Center. Blake Griffin and KIA were awesome. And even though I didn't get to see all the cars at the show, I would get another chance a couple days later, along with another autograph opportunity.

Dodgers Add Hideo Nomo To List Of 2013 Bobbleheads

2012-12-05T08:47:00.000-08:00

Nomo's 2002 bobblehead

On Tuesday, the Dodgers announced that Hideo Nomo will be bobblehead number eight in 2013. We now know who 9 of the ten bobbles will be next year. Bobblehead #4 is the only one yet to be announced.

From dodgers.com:

A bobblehead of Hideo Nomo has been added to the Dodgers' 2013 promotional calendar, the club announced Tuesday.

The bobblehead of Nomo, the eighth in next season's series, will be available Aug. 10 in an Interleague game against the Tampa Bay Rays. The first 50,000 fans will receive one. Nomo is scheduled to attend and participate in a pregame ceremony.

Nomo was a trailblazer for the influx of Japanese stars that have followed him to the Major Leagues. He arrived in 1995, when he won the National League Rookie of the Year Award and was an All-Star. In seven seasons with the Dodgers, he was 81-66 with a 3.74 ERA and threw the 10th no-hitter in Los Angeles Dodgers history in 1996 at Coors Field. It was the last no-hitter thrown by a Dodger.

This will be the second Dodger Stadium bobblehead for Nomo (Aug. 24, 2002). Also scheduled for 2013 are bobbleheads for Hanley Ramirez on April 30 (vs. Colorado), Matt Kemp on May 14 (vs. Washington), Jaime Jarrin on May 25 (vs. St. Louis), Sandy Koufax on June 27 (vs. Philadelphia), Adrian Gonzalez on July 11 (vs. Colorado), Vin Scully on July 25 (vs. Cincinnati), a "flag saving" Rick Monday on Aug. 27 (vs. Chicago Cubs) and Magic Johnson on Sept. 12 (vs. San Francisco).

Giving Nomo a bobblehead caught me a little off guard. I honestly never expected this, but I really like the decision. It's been 11 years since Nomo's last bobble and I think he deserves a second. Last year Eric Karros got one and I think the other three 90's Rookie of the Year recipients deserve bobbles as well. Maybe Raul Mondesi, Todd Hollandsworth and Mike Piazza can get one in 2014.

To see Nomo's 2002 Dodger Stadium bobblehead, click here.

New Kemp, Trumbo and Uribe Autos

2012-11-19T18:42:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I got an email from Matt about making trade. Matt writes the blog MC's Autograph Signings and he's also one of the better autograph hounds out here in SoCal.

When Matt asked me about making a trade, he listed a few things that were available. There were a lot of items that caught my eye, but the one that stood out the most was a 2011 All-Star ball signed by Matt Kemp. I knew I'd have to come strong to get my hands on that one.

2011 All-Star ball signed by Matty

After days of back and forth negotiating, we were finally able to come to an agreement. I got the Kemp AS ball, a Mark Trumbo sweet spot ROMLB and a Juan Uribe sweet spot ROMLB. I'm sure you're asking why I would want a Juan Uribe autograph. Yes, Uribe is garbage, one of the worst players ever to put on a Dodger uniform. Like I've said before, my collection is about Dodger autos, so if they've ever worn the uni, I want their sig. I tried many times to get Uribe's auto this year with no success, and now I don't have to worry about it anymore.

Not only does Uribe suck at baseball, his signature sucks too

Trumbo

I want to thank Matt again for the trade. I love my newest Matt Kemp auto! To see Matt's end of the trade, click here.

Bobblehead Collection: Carl Crawford Durham Bulls

2012-11-14T21:02:00.000-08:00

So I made a nice trade with Eric at The Snorting Bull, and I decided to break up my end of the deal into three parts. You can see part one here and part two here. The last part of our trade got me a new bobblehead for the collection. Carl Crawford might get a Dodger a bobblehead in 2013, but for now I'm happy to get my hands on this CC Durham Bulls bobblehead.

This bobble was given away by the Durham Bulls, AAA affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, on August 14, 2003. It honors Crawford for winning the 2002 International League Rookie Of The Year Award. Produced by Bobble Dobbles, this bobblehead was given to the first 1,000 fans in attendance.

Thanks again to Eric for the great trade. You can check out Eric's blog The Snorting Bull here. Also, if you're interested in this Crawford bobblehead, it's available at BobblesGalore.com.

Player Appearance: Kenley Jansen

2012-11-11T08:51:00.000-08:00

The Dodgers kicked off a Holiday Mall Tour yesterday at the Westfield Topanga Mall in Canoga Park. They're out trying to get fans to give Dodgers tickets as gifts for the holidays. Yesterday's event included appearances by Kenley Jansen from 11-1 and Tim Leary from 1-5.

I haven't been to many autograph events lately, but this one was just minutes from home, so I couldn't pass it up. When I arrived at the mall at 9:45, there were only about 20 people in line. We were told only one auto per person but we could get back in line if we wanted more. I got Kenley's autograph numerous times throughout the season, so I didn't need much signed, only a ball.

At 10:30 we were told Kenley had just left Dodger Stadium and he would be arriving in thirty minutes. Surprisingly, he arrived right at 11:00 then started signing right away. I was at the front of the line five minutes later. Kenley signed my ball then I went home. Nice and easy. I had plans later that day, so I couldn't make it to the Leary appearance.

The Dodgers have four more stops on their Holiday Mall Tour. You can see the entire schedule here.

More Dodger Autos From The Snorting Bull

2012-11-09T22:25:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back I posted a trade with blogger Eric from The Snorting Bull. I only showed the Matt Kemp cards that came my way in the trade, but there were actually a few other goodies involved. I'm gonna break this entire trade up into three parts. You can see the first part of the trade here, and I'll post the third installment later this weekend.

The Kemps were the centerpieces of the deal, but there were a few lower-end Dodger autographs that I needed. Here's what I picked up:

If a player ever wore a Dodger uniform, I want his autograph. I didn't have any of the above players, so it was nice to add some new sigs. Thanks again to Eric for the trade. Part three is coming is coming soon.

Facebook Trading: New Kemp And Ethier Autos

2012-11-05T18:45:00.000-08:00

In my pursuit to pick up as many Matt Kemp autographs as possible, I just completed yet another trade for one via Facebook. This time it was with FB friend Brian. After looking through what seemed like an endless photo album of sports card goodness, I found a few of his Dodger cards I liked. We went back and forth a few times and in the end we made a nice multi-card deal. I ended up with a 2010 Topps Tribute Kemp auto/dual jersey and a 2008 Allen & Ginter Andre Ethier autograph.

I think both cards are gorgeous and I'm happy to add them to the collection. I want to thank Brian for the trade. I can't wait for our next deal! If you're interested in making a trade, you can check out my trade bait page here.

Dodgers Release 2013 Promotional Schedule

2012-11-03T09:42:00.002-07:00

The Dodgers released their 2013 promotional schedule yesterday. We've got all the usual suspects on the list, t-shirts, fleece blankets, caps and other things that will end up in the back of our closets. What most of us really care about are the bobbleheads. Last season the team gave away TEN bobbles and guess what? We get TEN more in 2013! Here's the official release from the Dodgers:

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced their 2013 promotional schedule today. The list of giveaways will offer fans unique collectibles and fan favorite items. The Dodgers will give away 10 bobbleheads, including legendary Dodger Hall of Famers Sandy Koufax, Vin Scully and Jaime Jarrín, Dodger owner Earvin “Magic” Johnson, current Dodger stars Adrian Gonzalez, Matt Kemp and Hanley Ramirez and Dodger broadcaster Rick Monday. Johnson will also be featured in a second giveaway item, a one-of-a-kind T-shirt. Hello Kitty returns for 2013 with a fleece blanket and mini bobblehead on the promotional calendar. In addition, there will also be seven different kids' giveaway items.

Opening Day at Dodger Stadium is Monday, April 1 at 1:10 p.m. versus the defending World Champion San Francisco Giants. The Dodgers will celebrate Jackie Robinson night on April 15 (vs. SD) with a Robinson, Don Newcombe and Roy Campanella statue giveaway. Brand new promotional dates include a hooded sweatshirt giveaway on April 3 (vs. SF), earbuds on June 29 (vs. PHI) and an Old-Timers' Day and giveaway item on June 8 (vs. ATL). The return of Old Timers' Day will feature a contest between Dodgers and Yankees legends.

The 2013 promotional schedule includes fan favorites such as Friday Night Fireworks, a sports bag, Mother's Day tote bag, beach chair, back-to-school backpack, adult replica jersey, sleeved blanket and caps. Viva Los Dodgers Days will also return in 2013. Fan Appreciation Day will conclude the regular season on September 29 and the full promotional schedule is now available atwww.dodgers.com/promotions.

The Dodgers will once again offer a 10-game bobblehead mini plan, a best seller in 2012, that enables fans to purchase all 10 bobblehead promotional dates. A 15-game plan includes all 10 bobblehead games, Opening Day and four other promotional dates. The Dodgers' 20 and 30-game Pick ‘Em plans offer fans the most flexibility and best mini plan locations. Mini plan pricing starts at $11 and complete details are available now at www.dodgers.com/miniplans.

The best way for fans to collect 2013 promotions, purchase Opening Day tickets and secure Interleague matchups against the Yankees, Red Sox and Angels is to purchase season tickets. Season ticket options, one of the best values in Los Angeles and all of sports, start as low as $5 per ticket. Complete details on 2013 season ticket pricing can be found by visiting www.dodgers.com/seasontickets.

BOBBLEHEAD GIVEAWAYS (April 30, May 14, May 25, June 6, June 27, July 11, July 25, August 10, August 27, September 12)
Bobbleheads of Dodgers past and present are scheduled throughout the season. The 2013 bobblehead collection includes “I See You” Hanley Ramirez on April 30 (vs. COL), Matt Kemp on May 14 (vs. WAS), Jaime Jarrín on May 25 (vs. STL), Sandy Koufax on June 27 (vs. PHI), Adrian Gonzalez on July 11 (vs. COL), Vin Scully on July 25 (vs. CIN), a “flag saving” Rick Monday on August 27 (vs. CHI) and Magic Johnson on September 12 (vs. SF). The remaining two bobbleheads will be announced later.

FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS (April 5, April 26, May 10, May 24, June 7, June 28, July 12, July 26, August 9, August 23, August 30, September 13)
The popular season-long Friday Night Fireworks series will return for the 2013 season. Fans can watch the themed fireworks shows from the outfield grass after the game.

KIDS ITEMS (April 7, April 28, May 27, June 9, June 30, July 28, August 11)
There are seven Dodger kids' items on the 2013 promotional schedule, including a kids Matt Kemp replica jersey on April 7 (vs. PIT), kids' batting helmet on April 28 (vs. MIL), kids' Fathead on May 27 (vs. LAA), kids' compression sleeve on June 9 (vs. ATL), kids' performance shirt on June 30 (vs. PHI), kids' sunglasses on July 28 (vs. CIN) and kids back-to-school backpack on August 11 (vs. TB).

SPECIALTY ITEMS (April 3, April 15, April 17, April 27, May 7, May 12, May 28, June 4, June 8, June 11, June 25, June 29, August 13, August 31, September 28)
Dodger specialty items on the 2013 promotional schedule include a hooded sweatshirt on April 3 (vs. SF), Jackie Robinson, Don Newcombe and Roy Campanella statue on April 15 (vs. SD), Hello Kitty fleece blanket on April 17 (vs. SD), sports bag on April 27 (vs. MIL), T-shirt on May 7 (vs. AZ), Mother's Day tote bag on May 12 (vs. MIA), Magic Johnson T-shirt on May 28 (vs. LAA), cap on June 4 (vs. SD), Old-Timers' Day and giveaway item on June 8 (vs. ATL), beach chair on June 11 (vs. AZ), beach towel on June 25 (vs. SF), earbuds on June 29 (vs. PHI), cap on August 13 (vs. PHI), adult replica jersey on August 31 (vs. SD) and sleeved blanket on September 28 (vs. COL).

VIVA LOS DODGERS DAYS (April 7, April 28, May 26, June 9, June 30, July 14, July 28, August 11, August 25, September 1, September 14)
Viva Los Dodgers Day, a season-long initiative, will enter its fourth year and celebrate Latino culture in Los Angeles and the legacy of Latin American Dodgers past and present throughout the 2013 season. The family-friendly pregame festival is held in lot 6 two hours prior to each Sunday's game where fans can enjoy live music and a family-friendly celebration. La Gran Fiesta – Viva Los Dodgers, the culmination of a season-long series and the Dodgers' marquee Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, is set for Saturday, September 14 and will be held in lot 6 four hours prior to the game. Fans can get more information on “Viva Los Dodgers Days” by visiting www.dodgers.com/viva and www.losdodgers.com/viva.

2013 Promotional Schedule
4/1 - Opening Day, Magnet Schedules4/3 - Hooded Sweatshirt *4/5 - Friday Night Fireworks 4/7 - Kids Matt Kemp Replica Jersey ^, Viva Los Dodgers Day, Kids Run The Bases4/15 - Jackie Robinson, Don Newcombe & Roy Campanella Statue *, Jackie Robinson Night4/17 - Hello Kitty Fleece Blanket4/26 - Friday Night Fireworks4/27 - Sports Bag *4/28 - Kids' Batting Helmet ^, Viva Los Dodgers Day, Kids Run the Bases4/30 - Hanley Ramirez “I See You” Bobblehead5/7 - T-Shirt *5/10 - Friday Night Fireworks5/11 - Natural Balance Pet Foods Bark in the Park #1 °5/12 - Tote Bag *, Mother's Day & Postgame Walk Around the Park5/14 - Matt Kemp Bobblehead5/24 - Friday Night Fireworks5/25 - Jaime Jarrín Bobblehead 5/26 - MLB Network Drawstring Bag *, Viva Los Dodgers Day, Kids Run the Bases5/27 - Kids' Fathead ^5/28 - Magic Johnson T-Shirt * 6/4 - Cap #1 *6/6 - Bobblehead #46/7 - Friday Night Fireworks6/8 - Old Timers' Day & Item *, Old Timer's Game6/9 - Kids' Compression Sleeve ^, Viva Los Dodgers Day, Kids Run the Bases6/11 - Beach Chair6/25 - Beach Towel *6/27 - Sandy Koufax Bobblehead6/28 - Friday Night Fireworks 6/29 - Earbuds *6/30 - Kids' Performance Shirt ^, Viva Los Dodgers, Kids Run the Bases 7/11 - Adrian Gonzalez Bobblehead 7/12 - Friday Night Fireworks7/14 - Viva Los Dodgers Day, Kids Run the Bases7/25 - Vin Scully Bobblehead7/26 - Friday Night Fireworks7/28 - Kids' Sunglasses ^, Viva Los Dodgers, Kids Run the Bases8/9 - Friday Night Fireworks8/10 - Bobblehead #8 8/11 - Kids' Back to School Backpack ^, Viva Los Dodgers Day, Kids Run the Bases8/13 - Cap #2 *8/23 - Friday Night Fireworks8/25 - Viva Los Dodgers Day, Kids Run the Bases8/27 - Rick Monday “Flag Saving” Bobblehead8/30 - Friday Night Fireworks8/31 - Adult Replica Jersey *9/1 - Viva Los Dodgers Day, Kids Run the Bases9/9 - Hello Kitty Mini Bobblehead9/12 - Magic Johnson Bobblehead9/13 - Friday Night Fireworks9/14 - La Gran Fiesta – Viva Los Dodgers9/15 - Kids Run the Bases9/27 - Friday Night Fireworks9/28 - Sleeved Blanket *, Natural Balance Pet Foods Bark in the Park #2 °9/29 - Fan Appreciation Day
While supplies last. Giveaways listed are for the first 50,000 fans unless otherwise noted. Only one giveaway item per person will be given to the bearer of the ticket upon entering the stadium. Schedule subject to change without notice. Please visit www.dodgers.com/promotions for complete details.

^ First 15,000 ticketed kids 14 and under in attendance*First 40,000 fans°Special ticket required

I must admit, I'm looking forward to getting my Hanley Ramirez "I See You" bobble, Adrian Gonzalez bobble, and my Magic bobble, but do we really need another Sandy Koufax and Vin Scully? I thought getting a Koufax and Scully bobblehead was going to be a special promo for the 50th anniversary, and now we get them in back-to-back years? I don't like that.

I am intrigued by the Rick Monday "Flag Saving" bobble. I think it's a great idea and a moment that needs to be honored.

The Jaime Jarrin bobblehead is another one I'm looking forward to getting my hands on, but this one really feels like an apology bobblehead, one that screams "I'm sorry you didn't get one in 2012!" We all knew Jaime deserved a bobblehead, it just should have been given away last year. You know what they say though, better late than never.

I'm not sure who the mystery bobbleheads are going to be, but I wouldn't be shocked to see another Fernando Valenzuela or Tommy Lasorda. I know they're giving away a Jackie Robinson statue, but they should also give him a bobblehead. Any thoughts on this? Who do you think should get the other bobbleheads?

I want to get back to the number of bobblehead being given away in 2013. I know I'm in the minority, but I think ten is too many. I understand it's a way to get people into the stadium and a way to generate money, and I've always said that if they are making money, they need to spend it on players. But when the team would give three or four bobbles away every year, those nights were special. Now it's become an ordinary giveaway, something we get every other week. As much as I love getting a new bobblehead for the collection, I want to see the number reduced in 2014.

Dodger Autographs Served On A Sushi Platter

2012-10-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

I've never sent an autograph request through the mail, but I've always wanted to. There are a lot of players and former players that I need for my autograph collection, I'm just too damn lazy to write to them. Luckily, my good friend Spiegel, from Nomo's Sushi Platter isn't as lazy as I am. He's been mailing autograph requests all year and it's definitely benefited both of us. See, we have this agreement in which I get autographs in person and he gets them through the mail, then we give each other any doubles we have. We did this throughout the baseball season.You can see some of the cards I've given him here and here.

As for my latest haul, Spiegel realy hooked me up.

Hiroki Kuroda and Mike Marshall are my two favorites. I never got Kuroda's auto when he was in LA and I always regretted it. Now I have his sig! The Marshall is a bit of a sentimental auto for me. Mike Marshall was the first autograph I ever got. That was a million years ago at my local card shop in Chatsworth(there were five card shops in Chatsworth back in the day!). Anyway, I tore my parents place up looking for that autograph and I couldn't find it, so this is a nice replacement.

Thanks to Spiegel for all the TTM autographs. You can check out his blog Nomo's Sushi Platter here.

A Trade With The Snorting Bull Means New Kemps For Me!

2012-10-16T20:54:00.000-07:00

I've made numerous trades over the last few years , but no one has been as good of trade partner as Eric from The Snorting Bull. We've made four other trades in the past and just completed our fifth. Each one has involved at least one Matt Kemp card and this trade is no exception. He sent over two new Bisons for the collection this time.

The first one is this beautiful 2009 Upper Deck Signature Stars Trios card numbered to 30 which features one former Dodger, James McDonald and two current Dodgers, Chad Billingsley and of course Kemp. When we first started talking trade, the conversation began over a few 2012 Triple Threads cards. This triple signature piece was something that he remembered late in the negotiations, but I'm glad it was added as it's one of my favorites already.

Speaking of Triple Threads, we were able to involve one of the many Matt Kemp Triple Threads jersey cards Eric had in his possession. I had a few to pick from and I went with this statline card numbered to 27. It's a blue jersey piece that reads .324 39 126 IN 2011. Kemp's 2011 season was one for the ages and one I won't forget. In my opinion, Matty should have won MVP over Ryan Braun that year, but that's a discussion for another day.

It was nice making another trade with Eric. I'm sure we've got another coming real soon. Don't forget to check out Eric's blog The Snorting Bull.

Limited Edition Matt Kemp Draft Day Jersey Bobblehead

2012-10-07T17:38:00.000-07:00

Anyone else going through bobblehead withdrawals? It's gonna be a while before we see any new Dodger bobbleheads, so in the meantime, check out this new limited edition Matt Kemp bobble from BobblesGalore.com and Forever Collectibles.

What we've got here is the Bison in a suit and Dodger cap holding up a jersey with his famous number 27. There were only 300 of these Matt Kemp Draft Day Bobbleheads produced and each one is serial numbered. Dodgerbobble.com readers can get 10% off by using the promo code BobblesGalore10 at checkout. To purchase this bobble click here.