If the Los Angeles Dodgers now make the playoffs with Manny Ramirez, many will say Joe Torre managed to reach the postseason again due to superior talent.
Not so fast. Maybe Torre reached the postseason every year with the Yankees due to great talent, but not this time in L.A.
If anything, Torre may have accomplished one of his best managing jobs ever just to keep the Dodgers in the NL West race and be in position to trade for Ramirez.
Consider the odds Torre has faced in his first year with the Dodgers:
The team’s best player, shortstop Rafael Furcal, has been injured since May 5.
Staff pitching ace Brad Penny has been sidelined since June 14.
Closer Takashi Saito has been out since July 12.
L.A.’s top three third basemen were injured when the season began.
Center fielder Andruw Jones is a $36 million bust.
Jason Schmidt may "earn" his $47 million with the Dodgers by recording one win.
Staff pitching ace Brad Penny has been sidelined since June 14.
Closer Takashi Saito has been out since July 12.
L.A.’s top three third basemen were injured when the season began.
Center fielder Andruw Jones is a $36 million bust.
Jason Schmidt may "earn" his $47 million with the Dodgers by recording one win.
Despite it all, Torre has kept the Dodgers in contention in the Weak Weak NL West.
All things considered, that may be nearly as much of an accomplishment as winning four World Series in five years with the greatest talent on earth in New York.
3 comments:
With all of the trades in baseball the last few days but I have to agree with you; the Angels got exactly what they needed and I don't see anyone beating them. I have to agree with your preseason pick.
Hot date for Joe Torre???
It does look like Manny could be the difference but only if Manny wants to be the difference. Just Manny being Manny. It will be interesting to watch how that one comes out. With his help the Dodgers could win the west and make the playoffs.
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