For only the second time in franchise history, Tampa Bay’s Rays will visit Dodger Stadium. They’re in Tinsel Town for two games beginning tonight. The Rays’ season is beyond hope and prayer. They have an iron grip on last place in the AL East. So when action begins at 10:10 Right Coast Time, I’ll be in the upright and locked position in my office chair. And — though it will have no effect on the outcome — I’ll be pulling for the Dodgers. Sure would be nice for Vin Scully to call one more World Series before he retires at the end of this season, bringing a marvelous chapter of baseball history to a close.
Speaking of Vin, Rays Gold Glove center fielder Kevin Keirmaier, aware of L.A.’s rich baseball history, spoke to the Tampa Bay Times on the thrill and honor of playing there, and being mentioned by Vin:
“You see it (Dodger Stadium) on TV all the time and it looks beautiful… I’m excited to play there. It’s pretty cool that Vin Scully has called games for thousands of guys, and now I can be part of that group.… Just to know that at some point he will say my name in pretty cool to think about.”
Cool indeed, young Kevin. You’re not only a fine ballplayer, but an insightful and thoughtful lad with an appreciation for the finer things.