January 3, 2025 • 51 mins
Tesocar Hernandez meets with the media after re-signing with the Dodgers. Dodgers GM, Brandon Gomes joins us to talk Teo, Hyesong Kim and more. David Vassegh tells us what he's hearing about the role Kim will have with the team, the Dodgers' interest in Tanner Scott, and an update on their pursuit of Roki Sasaki
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
And we continue on Fred Rogan, Rodney Pete on a
five to seventy LA Sports, The Big Friday Show, The
Big Friday Show where anything goes. And this afternoon, what's
going iss? Hernandez is going to meet with the media
at Dodger Stadium. It should be starting momentarily. Tiascar, the
guy everybody wanted, agreed to a three year, sixty six
million dollar deal. What was the hold up, Well, they
(00:24):
were just trying to figure out how the contract would
be structured. Tiascar indicated that, you know, taxes in California
take a big bite out of you, so they wanted
to figure out a way to structure the deal where
he wouldn't get as hard by taxes and that's basically
why there was a delay. But he is going to
(00:45):
speak to the media and I bet you he will
be as happy as he's ever been in his life.
This is what he wanted, This is where he wanted
to be. There was a sense that he could have
sat a little longer, maybe got more money, a SCOH
shmore elsewhere, maybe a little longer deal perhaps somewhere else,
(01:06):
But the reality is this is where he wanted to be,
and the deal is done. And Dodger fans are thrilled
about it. Rodney and I am too, Fred, He's my man.
I'm so happy he's back. Much needed Tail. Come on
if you think about it, and we touched on it
an how ur one And by the way, if you
ever miss any part of the show, please feel free
(01:28):
to get the iHeartRadio app and go back listen to
the podcast because Kevin puts it up a minute we
get off the air, and if you had the app,
by the way, you can stream the show wherever you
go live so you never have to miss a second
of it. We will be with you each and every
day except Saturday and Sunday, and then we will have
you in our hearts.
Speaker 2 (01:45):
Monday through Friday.
Speaker 1 (01:47):
We will be with you anyway, Yes we will. We
did talk an hour one about now with Tail signed,
and they've also signed a player from Korea, an infielder
who they think will be a super utility player. He
Sung Kim So he has now signed for three years.
If you look at the roster, there aren't a lot
of holes. There aren't a lot of places that you
(02:10):
need to fill. And the feeling was are the Dodgers
going to do more? I mean they signed Blake Snell.
Now they've signed Ti Oscar. They went out and signed Confordo.
What else do they need? Well, and he Sung Kim.
They found a utility, super utility player. His primary position
to second base. He's played some of the corner, a
(02:30):
little bit of outfield as well. In his eight year
career in Korea, he hit three oh four last year
he sold forty six bases, so he can run overall
two hundred and eleven. That's a pretty good addition. And
if you have him and Chris Taylor and Migey Rojas,
there are your reserves. I think you have room for
one more, whoever that may be Dalton, Russia.
Speaker 2 (02:54):
Kiki. Don't just leave out Kiki just to leave out Kik.
Speaker 1 (02:57):
I'm not I'm just saying, yeah, okay, I'm just saying,
you know, in that scenario, it's gonna be Kik or Pahz.
Speaker 2 (03:04):
There's always trades happening.
Speaker 1 (03:06):
Fred, Well, that's true, that's true. But the only trade
you would make, well, let's see, I don't think anybody's
going to trade for Chris Taylor. They could, and no
disrespect to Chris because he could have a hell of
a year, but one year left on his deal. Yeah,
it's a tough deal, tough situation to trade, right, I mean,
maybe you take a flyer, you make a deal, you
(03:26):
trade for him. He comes in, he's tearing the cover
off the ball, and you give him three more wherever
he goes. I'm not sure that will happen. Mickey Rojas
has got a one year deal. He's not going anywhere,
all right, So Chris Taylor, Mickey Rojas, Now you have
Kim Dalton rushing. The young Dodger Phena will be up
this year as well. All right, But now let's go
(03:47):
to Dodger Stadium. Taskar Hernandez, Brandon Golden's the general manager,
and Dave Roberts are on the podium.
Speaker 3 (03:53):
Good yeah, all right, So thank you everybody for coming
here today on such short notice. Andrew was unable to
make it today, but I know he shares in the
excitement that we all have being able to have this
press conference today. I'm also incredibly excited as my eight
(04:15):
year old daughter has been asking me every day since
the end of the season, are we bringing Tale back?
Are we bringing Tale back? So I can officially say today, yes,
we're bringing Tale back. You know, all jokes aside. I
do think that that speaks volumes about who Tayo is
as a player and a person. You know, you can
(04:36):
feel the energy that he brings to the clubhouse, the
infectious smile that he has each and every day, and
it's not a surprise of why he's become a fan favorite,
so popular in a clubhouse and such an impactful piece
of what we do and you know, so important to
our coaching staff as well. You know, it's it was
(04:59):
great to see all you year bringing Tayo in. He
always put the team first and you could see that
there was a real, you know, love of the game
that he brought to the field each and every day.
I do think because of the way he plays with
such passion and joy when those big moments came up,
(05:21):
it was something that he really cherished and was able
to put the team first and slow the heartbeat down
and do whatever was needed in that situation. You know,
Doc says this all the time, and it's something that
I believe wholeheartedly as well. So if you play the
(05:41):
game the right way, the game will honor you and
the game role reward you. And what Tao has done,
you know, taking care of and mentoring his younger teammates
and having the amount of big moments that he had
this year and us being able to sit here today
is I think all a estimate to that. So you know,
(06:02):
in our initial talks last year, it's like, hey, this
is this is a one year deal. But in an
ideal world, we win a World Series and this relationship
gets to uh continue well beyond the one year. And
you know it doesn't always work out this way, but
I would say that we're, uh, We're in an ideal
world right now. So I'd like to officially welcome Taoe
(06:24):
back in Dodger Blue, and let's gonna win a lot
more World series together.
Speaker 4 (06:28):
Let's do it. Let's do it.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
Thank you, wasn't it too? News conference?
Speaker 2 (06:41):
Congratulations?
Speaker 5 (06:42):
You good love?
Speaker 2 (06:44):
What what about gosh?
Speaker 1 (06:47):
Now you can hear the media asking questions.
Speaker 6 (06:50):
I mean, uh, I always say this, the Dodgers they're different.
Speaker 4 (06:55):
Uh.
Speaker 6 (06:55):
They think about uh, everybody, not only the player, only
the things that I can do on the field. And
for me, it just they give me the confidence I
never get that really and in other places that I were,
they trust and everything that I can give them and
(07:18):
to this team and this organization and that was one
of the biggest things for me that pushed me do
the best job that I can do and in a
Dodgers uniform.
Speaker 7 (07:31):
First, welcome back and congratulations. When you were looking at
just this free agency, what were you prioritizing? And I
know you've talked a lot about wanting to be back
in Dodger blue now being back in Dodger Blue, but
just what was so important to you with this decision.
Speaker 6 (07:48):
Honestly, I went to free agency free agency. I think
I make that clear before I went there. The Dodgers
were the priority and I would I would going to
do everything in my power to came back. For me,
money wasn't an issue. I might I could have wait,
(08:09):
I could have weighed more offers from all the teams,
but I think the money it wasn't gonna be the difference.
I couldn't get like five or six more meal from.
Speaker 4 (08:20):
Other teams.
Speaker 6 (08:21):
And if you you put me in a place that
I have to decide, I would have decided to come back,
just because the way this organization is, the way this
organization trade a family and the players, and that for
me is more important than anything.
Speaker 8 (08:41):
For Brandon and Dave. You know you guys talk so
much during the postseason round about the clubhouse culture and
how that played out on the field. I mean, how
important has that been generally to preserve this offseason and
obviously with what Tail meant to that room, how much
of that kind of factor and to want to bring
him back to.
Speaker 2 (08:58):
I think so.
Speaker 9 (08:59):
I think you know, there's a part of the culture,
the talent piece that when you have the right pieces
players in place, you need to sustain it.
Speaker 2 (09:13):
And there's also another part of.
Speaker 9 (09:15):
Adding to that team of people that are realize the
bar of character, makeup, talent certainly, and hunger for winning.
And so you look at the acquisitions we've made this winner, we've.
Speaker 2 (09:36):
Checked that box as well.
Speaker 9 (09:38):
But a guy like Tayo, We've created a situation here
with the Dodgers that the bar is extremely high. It's
not just about getting the most talented players. You've got
to be good on the field and you've got to
play the game a certain way because what that does
is it makes people around you better. It holds the
(10:03):
teammates accountable. And when you're looking at young players who
out of system, you know they have something to aspire towards, right,
And so for us Tao checked every single box. And again,
like Gomer said, you know, shooting a one year flyer
on a player doesn't always you know, go out into
(10:27):
an extension or a multi year deal. But just what
he did for us and how he made everyone better,
it was a no brainer.
Speaker 10 (10:35):
Yeah, this could be for Brandon and for Tayo. What
was it that sort of allowed this deal to come
together the last couple months or so, just obviously from
more things started at the game of the off season.
Speaker 3 (10:47):
Yeah, you know, from very early on, right after the parade,
we had you know, been in contact with Ralfa Tao's agent,
and over the last year or so we've developed a
really good relationship and I think, you know, the most
important thing in these deals is continuing to hear, you know,
what is important on their side on our side, and
finding you know, the common ground there because we both
(11:10):
both said it from the get go, the desire and
the goal is that Tail stays with us. And you know,
ultimately because of that relationship and the understanding of where
both sides were, were able to to work that out.
Speaker 11 (11:31):
The Oscar fel insert Confianza the Dodgers to Marianestaunda c
ultimasco is Ermandaco for Maro in a clubhouse.
Speaker 6 (11:52):
See gentleman man and communicaup on the tant.
Speaker 4 (12:02):
Mariante group compart.
Speaker 6 (12:09):
Know Manto communicad Okay, Freddy to pasion, show to passion,
Migi rode to.
Speaker 4 (12:20):
Mantes. A communica is a.
Speaker 6 (12:25):
Man la communica lama for did so you know you
know commocated yours parents like the dogs even format see
lott so he needs you your made her seremon the
(12:53):
e regreso La regressa s a concrete contracted on the
Tomnas content with Felsi, the car.
Speaker 12 (13:13):
The loss, Mastivos and socialists comment and jookes.
Speaker 6 (13:23):
Tomado see so in flu and Tomarion, Yes, come Comato Colombo,
Dodgers La more Yes, Organizations, loud training organis a young
(13:44):
folgo be an emote, Joo, Magrand.
Speaker 12 (13:52):
Decision lest us and pasta.
Speaker 1 (14:02):
Are you listening to ask Hernandez's news conference.
Speaker 8 (14:07):
How much do you think the bonds you guys built
as a team during the postseason run last year like
being back now? How much you think it's going to
help carrying over into twenty twenty five? Is you guys
try to defend the World Series.
Speaker 6 (14:19):
For us, I'm gonna speak about myself, but I'm sure
that the other guys, if you ask them, they're going
to say the same thing. What is in the past
is in the past. We're not going to think about
what we did in twenty twenty four. We got our
minds clear, we know what we can do. Our team
(14:40):
is better this year, and like I always said, if
we stay healthy.
Speaker 4 (14:45):
We can do special things. In twenty twenty five is
going to be one of them.
Speaker 8 (14:49):
And then for Brandon, I'm not sure how much you
can talk about the other news that might be happening today,
but just generally you guys have talked about, you know,
keep being it short. Looks at second, like does that
calculation change at all with some of the other things
that you have coming down the pipe right now?
Speaker 3 (15:07):
No, I mean that that's still the mindset, and you know,
talking with doct A O being right and you know,
CONFORDO and left then kind of go from there. I think,
like we've said all along, continuing to add talent and
build a balanced lineup to go out and repeat is
our goal. And we feel like we're you know, we've
(15:28):
taken steps and we'll continue to take steps towards doing.
Speaker 5 (15:31):
That the ospar congratulations on the new deal. You mentioned
throughout this season, how big it was to have the
support from Dodgers fans and he had that emotional moment.
Speaker 4 (15:44):
At the parade.
Speaker 5 (15:45):
How big was that for you to be embraced by
Dodgers fans into that and all factor in your decision
to resign here huge.
Speaker 6 (15:53):
I always take that in mind. I appreciate signs. The
first day that I got here, the Dodgers Science, they
were in there. They were cheating for me. They were
giving me the support that I need to have the
season that I have last year, not only for me,
but for the whole team. And when you have that support,
(16:13):
you just as a player, you think you have to
give one hundred and ten percent every day for this
fan base so they can get the match out of
every single game.
Speaker 5 (16:24):
And you made it very clear you wanted to resign here,
and you said in a recent interview that you receive
offers from other teams. At any point, was there ever
a doubt that you were going to resign here or
at the end of the day, did you of me
think you'd be back?
Speaker 6 (16:36):
Not really, Like I said, I have my mind clear
that I wanted to come back and that I was
going to do anything.
Speaker 4 (16:45):
In my power to make it work and be back
with the Dodgers.
Speaker 7 (16:57):
Till in what ways did it being with the Dodgers
help your comfort this last season?
Speaker 2 (17:00):
How do you maintain that moving forward?
Speaker 6 (17:03):
I always have confidence in myself. Just because I had
a really, really good season last year, it doesn't mean
that my confidence is going to be higher this year.
I'm just going to focus on the things that I
got to do on the baseball field to get this
thing a win in that day, and just moving forward,
(17:25):
just trying to stay healthy and be on the field
the whole season, playing for this team and doing the
little things to get the Dodgers to win.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
Yeah.
Speaker 4 (17:41):
Thank thank you, guys, Thank you guys, thank you.
Speaker 1 (17:44):
All Right, there you go, do you ask her? Hernandez
talking to the media at Dodger Stadium, his first public
comments and signing his three year, sixty six million dollar
deal Rodney and I think it went pretty much as expected.
He's a happy guy. This is the only place you
wanted to be. He's not shy about talking about why
(18:11):
he wanted to be a Dodger last year and why
he wanted to come here and was very happy and excited.
And so it's no surprise that when this deal happened,
or that he wanted a deal to happen with the Dodgers,
that he was also excited about it because this is
the place where he wanted to be fred and it
showed last year. He performed last year as you mentioned,
(18:32):
he went out and wanted the home run derby. He
did everything you could ask for for a Dodger teammate
on and off the field. He was a leader in
that clubhouse. He brought the sunflower seeds to every home run.
I mean, he embraced everything. Remember the first guy that
kind of really opened Otani up to the media was
(18:53):
ta Oscar getting him to speak Spanish and just teaching
him Spanish and having fun with him and light in
the mood a little bit.
Speaker 2 (19:01):
It was ti Oscar.
Speaker 1 (19:02):
So from a clubhouse standpoint, and I can say this
from being in locker room, you love a guy like that.
You want a guy like that on your team that
can not only lighten the locker room and make sure
he comes in with a positive attitude every day, but also.
Speaker 2 (19:18):
Can play his ass off too.
Speaker 1 (19:20):
Interesting, Brandon Gome said, as did Dave Roberts. When you
sign it gout to a one year deal, you're basically
taking a flyer on all. Right, come on in Michael Confordo,
they're taking a flyer on him. Interested that wait on
that Confortal thing that they said he was gonna play
left and right?
Speaker 2 (19:38):
Yeah, I noticed that. Yeah.
Speaker 1 (19:41):
So anyway, they take the flyer on ti Oscar and
you don't know how it's gonna work out. I mean,
it's a one year deal, but it turns out to
be a blessing. Not only does he have a terrific season,
become an integral part of the club, become a huge
fan favorite, but they win the World Series all because
(20:02):
he chose to take a one year deal here. And
they said, this doesn't happen very often. Sure, you want
to if you sign somebody, you hope they'll be with
you for a while, But for it to happen the
way it did, that he was deserving of this extension
and this deal. Think about it, though, Fred, think about
even with the Dodgers, but around the league as well.
(20:23):
We just saw Wan Soto take the flyer with the Yankees,
and now he's a met Obviously he was in San
Diego for a minute before that. But you know, he's
a met even with the Dodgers. You know the Max
Scherzer situation. He came in, took a flyer on him,
try to go win the World So he's gone. And
even though Trey Turner was a two year deal, he
(20:44):
was gone after that. It wasn't a long term deal.
And I don't think many people believe because he was
I think a lot of people felt he wanted to
be back on the East Coast, meaning Trey Turner, and
so that was not a long term deal. It was
a moment that they could get those guys and get
him in there and see what happened. But it doesn't
often work out that way where you take a flyer
on a guy for a one year run to the
(21:06):
World Series and then you ended up sign him to
a long term deal.
Speaker 2 (21:10):
I think it's great, great for the Dodgers.
Speaker 1 (21:12):
Yeah, and it's it doesn't happen often when the guy
is Tao's age, no, and it's been around as long
as he has.
Speaker 2 (21:21):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (21:22):
I mean, look, Tommy Edmund, they extended him immediately immediately.
He's not making Yeah, but to Tommy, I would put
him in a different category because they had their eye
on Tommy for years. I mean, they were very open
about talking about how much they wanted him in the
organization for years and finally got that opportunity. So I
wasn't shocked by them immediately signing him to a long
(21:44):
term deal. But other guys, yeah, you know, go back
even you Darvis brought him in for a flyer and
he was gone the next year.
Speaker 2 (21:52):
You know.
Speaker 1 (21:52):
Granted, the Game seven didn't work out very well, so
that was kind of right in on the wall. But
still it doesn't happen very often when you take flyers
on guys like that, or guys even even from the
player standpoint, Fred, where guys is I want to go
to the Dodgers, get me self fixed. I want to
go when I want to be in a great organization,
then I'll go make my big money somewhere else. That
(22:14):
that kind of is the mentality. And and then rarely
happens where a guy takes a bet on himself, has
a great year, the team does well, and he ends
up staying with the team.
Speaker 2 (22:25):
Usually some other club gives him a bigger deal that
he's got to go.
Speaker 1 (22:29):
He said, he said, I could have gone somewhere else
for five or six million dollars more.
Speaker 2 (22:33):
He said that.
Speaker 1 (22:35):
But it's interesting when when you get here at this
point in time in Dodger history, you.
Speaker 2 (22:41):
Really don't want to live thirty thirty? What is he? Kevin?
Thirty thirty two? I believe thirty two.
Speaker 1 (22:46):
Okay, you really don't want to go Rodney when you
get here at this time in Dodger history, obviously there
was a time where you'd want to get out of
here as quickly as possible.
Speaker 2 (22:55):
And your age and your age, Yeah, I.
Speaker 1 (22:58):
Don't want to go anywhere. I'm just good here. Look
at what Max Muntsey said when there was talk about
Nolan Ernato. Hey, he's the best defensive third basement in
the game. You know what, I'll be a platoon guy.
Speaker 2 (23:10):
I'm good.
Speaker 1 (23:11):
I just don't want to go anywhere else. I just
want to be here. Whatever you want to do with me.
He didn't say, that's my position and I want to
play every day. He didn't say it comes, I got
to get out of here. You got to get rid
of me if he comes. He didn't say that. Yeah,
it was like, we'll work it out. I'll be here
if I got a platoon I'll platoon. Yeah, something about
this place that is unique and different and we're not Look,
(23:35):
you know, people around the country if they hear as
we'll say, oh, you guys are homers. But it really
because we've been in it and we've seen this team
work year in and year out, and the people that
come here and the players we've talked to, the administration
people that we've talked to, it is a special place
that like no other I.
Speaker 2 (23:54):
Think in any sport right now. It's a place where.
Speaker 1 (24:01):
Not only players want to come, but they also get
compensated for coming here, and you've got a chance to
win championships every single year. That's unique to any team
in any sport right now. The Dodgers are above everybody
else in any sport when it comes to what they
(24:22):
bring to the table or a player that wants to
play here. And the funny thing is, and this works
in all ways of business. Think about what you do,
whatever your job is, or whatever your job has been.
You know something, when you leave a place, it's always
hard and there's kind of a bad taste to just
(24:42):
be honest, there is you're always a little ticked off
if they decide you're not coming back if they go
in a different direction, there's that taste that's in your
mouth and it's not good. Isn't it ironic that whoever
comes here wants to stay here, and because of the
way they treat everybody. If then when that time is up,
(25:04):
they're like, thank you for the opportunity. Nobody seems to
be pissed at them. Nobody's upset, No players are upset.
And it's really interesting how they do it. I think
they're brutally honest with everybody.
Speaker 2 (25:19):
That you said it right there, you said it.
Speaker 1 (25:21):
We've talked to guys and say, look, I'm on the
bubble as a guy that can come back here. They
told me to go out and test the market. They
were upfront with me. They said, we'd like you back,
but we're not gonna stand in your way. If you
can get a better deal, go get a better deal,
bring it back to us, and then we'll evaluate that.
Speaker 2 (25:38):
Not every team does that. Every team does that.
Speaker 1 (25:41):
A lot of teams say, oh, okay, you don't take
this deal, then then you got forty eight hours to
make a decision and we're done with you. Or if
you talk to somebody else, then we're not gonna you're
not gonna have opportunity here. They get bitter about it.
But the Dodgers and Andrew Friedman has said that to
us that he is very open about being fair to guys. Hey, listen,
if you can get more money elsewhere and go for it,
(26:04):
go for it. We're open to that, and we're not
gonna We're not gonna be bitter about it. We're not
gonna hold a grudge. And if we can match it
at the end of the day, we'll match it. And
if we can't, you got paid. Yeah, it's a fascinating
way of doing business. And even listening to Brandon Gomes,
he sounds like Andrew Friedman. Yeah, the philosophy, the philosophy,
(26:28):
even the delivery. It's like they are so buttoned up
in what they do and how they do it. And
I don't know if a team in professional sports that
operates this way. I don't know many businesses that operate
this way. I mean, I was just gonna use the Dodgers.
It's funny I have this philosophy in this news show.
I do because it's a very different world and the
(26:48):
one thing you get in news is a statement, Hey,
we're gonna report this anybody available to be interviewed. No,
but we'll send you a statement. And I was going
to and I am going to do this thing tonight.
We're not using statements anymore. If you send me a statement,
then I'm going to interpret what I think it means,
because what I know it is is a bunch of bs.
I'm well aware of that. I've read enough of these.
Speaker 2 (27:09):
Oh my god, Oh my god, Kevin is a monster
created right now.
Speaker 1 (27:13):
No, but that's what I'm gonna do, and it's funny.
We're gonna lead our show with it tonight. If you
send me a state, is what id Rogan right? Because
I know it's a bunch of garbage. We know that
it's being a statement. Come on and tell me straight
out what you mean. That's right, send me a statement.
Here's the thing. When somebody sends you a statement, Well,
(27:36):
if the Dodger sends you one, it's because something just happened,
then they'll talk about it. But the majority of time
in the media, if somebody sends out a statement that
means right, they don't want to answer the questions you
want to ask.
Speaker 2 (27:50):
Uh huh.
Speaker 1 (27:51):
We will tell you what we want you to know.
But I don't want to know any of that. I
don't care about any of what you're saying. I want
you to answer these questions. And so I'm doing this
thing tonight. No more statements, and I will interpret some
things people have sent us tonight, and they'll hate me because,
let me trust me, the people in the government out
(28:12):
here hate me, hate me. They do not like me.
Speaker 2 (28:17):
You are you going? Not going rogan, but you're going rogue? Fred?
Speaker 1 (28:20):
Are you kind of out there in the desert? I
kind of am as I said tonight, Well, we're going
to focus on something. And for the majority of you,
if we focus on you, then it's going to be
a bad week. And let's get to it. That's how
we started last night. If I say we're going to
take a look into something, somebody's having a bad night,
somebody is having a really bad night, We're going.
Speaker 2 (28:42):
To keep doing it.
Speaker 1 (28:43):
Kevin, if you happen to be in the desert, you
and Lauren happen to go take a trip down there,
make sure you don't go out.
Speaker 2 (28:48):
To dinner with Fred.
Speaker 1 (28:49):
Well, don't get here in my car.
Speaker 2 (28:50):
Yeah, don't get in there his car.
Speaker 1 (28:52):
Don't go out to dinner with don't be in proximity
of Fred, because there might be casuals.
Speaker 2 (28:58):
Damage.
Speaker 1 (29:00):
But the point is this, and it's funny this happened,
and we're talking about this because I was going to
use the Dodgers as the example tonight, because a lot
of people here are from LA and they're still huge
Dodger fans. And I was gonna say, let me tell
you the right way to conduct your business. Let me
tell you. You ask those guys a question, They're gonna
give you the answer. You might not like the answer,
(29:22):
they're gonna give you the answer. And the funniest part
of it is they're gonna tell you the truth. And
I don't know how they do that all the time.
If you ask one of them a question, if you
ask Andrew Friedman a question, he will give you the answer.
You might not like it, but he will give it
to you. If you ask Dave Roberts a question, we
know this all too well, he will give you the answer.
(29:46):
You might disagree, you might disagree, but I'll tell you
one thing. He's not trying to pull any punches are
fully of You're not trying to hide. I'll even take
it for a step further, Fred, because we you know
pulling the curtain back. We are partners with the Dodgers,
and when there's been there's shake up here about a
month ago, we're kind of figuring out what's going on,
(30:10):
and they're the one person that we called to figure
out what was going on, got right back to us
and told us, get us on the phone, Get on
the phone, fred Fred, get Rodney, get Fred on the phone.
We'll talk about it. And that was at the answers
to what was going on, and that was at seven
thirty in the morning. Yes, all right, let's bring on
the general manager the Dodgers, Brandon Gomes and Brandon thank
(30:31):
you for hanging out a couple of minutes with us.
Speaker 13 (30:34):
Yeah, thanks for having me fellas.
Speaker 1 (30:36):
Okay, was there ever a question in your mind that
you would get the Hernandez feel done?
Speaker 13 (30:41):
I mean, you never feel one hundred percent confident on anything,
but you know, from having conversations very early on, right
after the World Series, I think from both ends, who
was a priority for us to make it happen and
bring him back where he belongs. So, you know, without
ever feeling percent on anything, we felt confident that the
(31:02):
communication was heading in the right direction. We were going
to be able to do something that. You know, both
sides were very happy with Brandon.
Speaker 2 (31:11):
What is it about the Dodgers?
Speaker 1 (31:12):
We've We've talked about this for years out You guys
are unique in all of sports. I played football for
a number of years and don't remember organization being as
upfront with its players, its employees like you guys are.
That you get guys that want to come here number one,
and then want to stay here, feel like they can
(31:35):
come here and get fixed, feel feel they can come
here and get right, feel like they can come here
and get treated fairly.
Speaker 2 (31:42):
What what I mean?
Speaker 1 (31:43):
What is it that you guys have over other clubs
that make so many players want to come here so bad?
I mean, I know the winning and all that, but
just more of the environment.
Speaker 13 (31:55):
Yeah, I mean, I think it's you know, it's really
important to us when our players come in that they
feel like we are being open and honest with them,
knowing that we're going to pour everything we can into them.
You know, make it a point to have their families
feel important and have that taken care of, because I mean,
(32:17):
as you know, like if your family's in a good place,
that's one less thing you need to worry about when
you get on the field and you can perform to
your highest level and have as few distractions as possible,
you know, and then you talk about how talented our
coaching staff is, the culture that Doc creates and the
expectation of winning is important. Our fans pour into us,
(32:40):
we want to turn around and pour into them with
great players, in a great atmosphere and a winning team
every single year. So you know, we love the fact
that when guys come in they feel confident that they're
going to play at their highest level, but also you
know we're going to take care of them and their family,
and you know, the ultimate goal of winning a Chaincempion
(33:00):
chip is is on the table every single year.
Speaker 1 (33:04):
Dodger JM. Brandon Gomes with us on the show. Okay,
he saw Kim signed him out of Korea. I believe
a three year deal. You look at his numbers career wise,
he's hitting three h four thirty seven home runs. Last
year he stole forty six bases. Looks like he's a
second baseman by trade, plays a little third and be
in the outfield. If this guy, well, first, where did
(33:27):
he come from? Brandon? Let's start with that, and how
long have you been pursuing him?
Speaker 13 (33:32):
I mean, we knew he was going to be posted
this year. We actually played against him when we were
in Korea in one of our exhibition games, and you
know it was our scouts had been following him for
a while, but it was very evident, like the speed,
that the defensive skill that there was real talent. So
I mean having the ability to add somebody who's a
double plus runner, a really good defender at multiple spots,
(33:56):
and then having real upside to tap into on the
bat gets working with our hitting crew was something that
was very exciting for us to be able to add
to the organization.
Speaker 1 (34:07):
I know you're looking at him in a super utility role,
but let me just be honest with you. So let's
say he gets over here but just quickly works with
the hitting staff and a guy can really hit. Add
that to all of the other things you just said.
Can that guy be a utility player or does he
have to play every day?
Speaker 3 (34:26):
Yeah?
Speaker 13 (34:27):
I think those are We would love to have those
good problems as we've had over the last few years.
Those things tend to work themselves out, you know, whether
it be injuries or guys just playing into a more
consistent role. And you know, one of the things that
Top does such a great job of is making sure
guys are staying relevant and mixing in because it is
(34:48):
a long season and having guys fresh for the stretch
run in October is really important. So as these guys perform,
you know, things inevitably happen to allow for some consistent
playing time. So I don't see that being a factor.
If you know, if all those things play out, all.
Speaker 2 (35:07):
Right, Brandon, what now? I mean you can you can
you relax now?
Speaker 1 (35:10):
I mean, you've done everything more than people thought you
were going to do in this offseason, and and it
it feels like it's still early before pitchers and catchers report.
Speaker 2 (35:21):
Are you guys done?
Speaker 1 (35:22):
Are you still being aggressive in some other areas in
terms of free agency?
Speaker 13 (35:27):
Yeah, I mean I think our goal is always to
continue to see what's available, and you know, we've had
the support of ownership all along to to go out
and put together whatever we feel like we need to
do to put the best team out there to repeat.
So definitely not going to sit back and put our
feet up. Will continue to see how the market plays
(35:49):
out in different areas and be opportunistic and continue to
to add talent.
Speaker 2 (35:55):
You know.
Speaker 13 (35:55):
In one of the goals this year it is every year,
but especially this year, is that you try to address
as many things as we can now so we don't
have to go out and buy during the deadline.
Speaker 2 (36:08):
So that is, you know, our.
Speaker 13 (36:10):
Mindset right now, and we'll keep you know, looking over
the market and trying to figure out different ways that
we can make this team team better.
Speaker 1 (36:18):
Last question, Brandon, we appreciate you joining us. Rookie Sazaki.
So after the meetings were held and no players were there,
he was given everybody a homework assignment and everybody reported
back with their findings. The one thing I took from
what I read is that he indicated he wanted to
go to a place, or at least his representative did,
where he could be better, where he could be the best.
(36:39):
He wanted to go to a place where they were
going to invest in him with technology, with coaching, and
make him the very best picture he can be. If
in fact that's true, and I said this the other
day to Rodney, then why is he meeting with anybody
but the Dodgers If he wants to go to a
place where they're going to make him the best why
(36:59):
would he talk anybody else.
Speaker 13 (37:02):
Yeah, well, I think we're all biased here, so I'm
happy to go along with this. But yeah, I mean,
I think it's evident with the decision that he's making
that the goal is to be, you know, one of
the best pitchers, if not the best best pitcher in
the world. Otherwise he wouldn't be coming out now. So yeah,
we feel very good about our our pitching group and
(37:22):
our development crew and you know, performance staff trainers to
be able to do that and put you know, players
in the best position to succeed and perform. So hopefully
that you know, that ends up shining through and we'll
see how that ends up playing out.
Speaker 1 (37:39):
Thanks for jumping on today. We know you're busy. We
really appreciate it.
Speaker 13 (37:42):
Appreciate it Bright, You got it, guys, Thanks for having me.
Speaker 1 (37:44):
All right, there, he goes general manager of the Dodgers,
Brandon Golmes. You're always going to ask him that. Come on,
you know I had to ask him about spot.
Speaker 2 (37:53):
I had to.
Speaker 1 (37:55):
Okay, we're way behind. Let's take a quick break, all right,
back with more on what Brandon Gomes said. I have
some thoughts on it, all right, Fred Rugg and Rodney
Pete and in five seventy LA Sports you heard Dodger
general manager Brandon Gomes. You also heard from Tayl Hernandez.
(38:18):
And again, I mean, yeah, we talked to Brandon Golmmes.
He answered the questions. He didn't say much, to be
quite honest with you, he really didn't, but he gave
us a little insight into what they did. The thing is,
when you get done dealing with those guys, and we
think David Vassi is going to jump on here in
a second, he was out there. When you get done
dealing with these guys, you actually feel like, Okay, I
(38:38):
got the story. You actually believe that. And I think
it would be a really good page to take from
the Dodger book with almost everybody else in town. I
think that'd be the best way to handle things going forward.
Some teams do something, we are talking about. What are
you talking about? I mean, just the way you deal
with the fans in the media. The RAMS do a
(39:00):
very good job of telling you what's going on. You mean,
but you like the RAMS telling you we're not going
to have a good year. I just like the MS
telling you something.
Speaker 2 (39:10):
But they made the playoffs, all right?
Speaker 1 (39:12):
Well, they made a mistake, but at least they said something.
I don't know if they made a mistake in Sanatat
or making the playoffs, but mistake, but they they talk
to you all right. Now, here's somebody that's not afraid
to tell us what's going on. David Vasse, Dave, good
afternoon to you.
Speaker 3 (39:27):
What.
Speaker 14 (39:28):
Happy New year, Hey, Happy New Year. I'm here at
Dodger Stadium in the Stadium club where Tioscar Hernandez just
had his press conference, and I'm staring out at a
Dodger Stadium that is starting to take shape, but still
obviously a month away from being completely ready to go.
Speaker 1 (39:47):
Yeah, a lot of renovations going on out there. Dodgers Stadium,
new clubhouse, new locker rooms, all that kind of stuff.
Speaker 14 (39:54):
They heard RJ demanded it, Rodney, I heard your son,
RJ demanded he wants his own locker, he wants his
own jacuzzi and sauna.
Speaker 1 (40:06):
I'm absolutely amazed that they are getting as much done
as they are in this period of time, Dave.
Speaker 14 (40:12):
Fred It's a twenty four to seven working schedule here
to get it done in time for when the Dodgers
season begins. They're supposed to host just one of the
three Freeway Series games. You know, in all conceivable ways,
you can imagine maybe if they needed more time with
the Dodgers starting the season in Tokyo this year, that
(40:33):
they could play all three in Anaheim if they really
needed that extra day.
Speaker 1 (40:38):
Right, all right, Dave, let's get to the press conference.
I mean, obviously it felt like ta Oscar really wanted
to be back here, and he bet on himself coming here,
wanted to be here, and then wanted a deal done
and didn't really want to go anywhere else. Is that
what that I'm hearing right way?
Speaker 14 (40:57):
Yeah, I spoke to Tao and he's gonna you'll hear
from him on Dodger Talk tonight at seven o'clock. But
basically express that Rodney. Remember this is the second straight
off season he's gone through free agency. Last year he
was a late sign and that's the reason why he
took a one year contract to bet on himself and
it paid off. Not too many times does a player
(41:18):
sign a one year contract and come back to the
same team on a multi year deal. But it wasn't
just what he did on the field, it's the way
he invested himself in Dave Roberts and his teammates and
in the city. A lot of times when you have
a rental type of player, they got one foot in,
one foot out. But Tao was all in from day one.
(41:41):
And I think that's the reason why the Dodgers and
Taoscar were able to get this deal done, because they
had a great working relationship all season long, and when
in the World Series doesn't hurt, it would be really
tough for Taoscar to leave this, as he said during
the press conference, for five or six million dollars, that's
(42:01):
really not worth it. At the end of the day, Dave, He's.
Speaker 1 (42:05):
On Kim the Korean second baseman, super utility player. Look
at his numbers and Brandon Gomes said they had an
eye on him when they were playing an exhibition game
last year. Look at his numbers and if he can
hit major league pitching, he's pretty good. Do you see
him moving into some sort of a starting role.
Speaker 14 (42:25):
Not right now, Fred. I feel like right now he's
a bench player that you know, gives the Dodgers a
lot of depths. He's a really good fielding second baseman.
The people I've spoken to that have scouted him, said
the bat is light. But Brandon Gomes, you guys just
talk to him, believes that Dodgers hitting coaches can help
(42:46):
him be a better hitter. So right now, as the
roster is constructed, Gavin Lux is still the second baseman.
Speaker 2 (42:55):
What about Key K?
Speaker 14 (42:59):
From what I was told, Fred, this signing of Kim
and bringing back ta Oscar hernandez U does not preclude
the Dodgers from bringing back Key K. So uh, there
is still a very good possibility the Dodgers will bring
back KEYK hernandez The door is not shut with this
signing of the Korean infielder.
Speaker 2 (43:19):
Wow.
Speaker 1 (43:20):
Wow, I didn't think they'd have a slots Dave.
Speaker 14 (43:24):
Well, right now they're full. I'm not sure you guys
saw the corresponding move. Diego Kartaya was DFA to make
room on the forty man roster. So that's that's the move.
And they're at forty right now, exactly forty, and they
would have to make some different roster moves to be
(43:45):
able to sign another player, whether it be Key K
or somebody else, or you know, you have to make
a trade in some form or fashion to make room
for another player on your forty man roster before spring training. Yeah,
Dave Wi, can you tell us about you know a
lot of this stuff like Rodney, there's a really good
chance that key K doesn't sign until spring training starts,
(44:08):
similar to last year, because when spring training begins, that's
when you can put players on the sixty day injured list,
which opens up forty nine roster spots. So key K
wants to come back, he may be motivated to wait
it out right.
Speaker 2 (44:25):
Right, which it sounds like he definitely wants to come back.
Speaker 1 (44:27):
But you know, we'll see. What can you tell us
about Tanner Scott in the pursuit of him? Is it
worth it? Is it something that's serious or is this
just been thrown out there?
Speaker 14 (44:39):
Yeah?
Speaker 9 (44:39):
I was.
Speaker 14 (44:40):
I started to hear his name at the winter meetings
and we'll have to see where it goes. I mean,
nobody has signed Tanner Scott, nobody has signed Kenley Janssen.
So there really hasn't been a big time free agent
or leader that has come off the board. A lot
of people believe going into the winner that the position
(45:01):
players would be signed and the starting pitchers would be signed,
and Tanner Scott and Kenley Jansen would be the last ones,
the last tier of free agents to sign. So I
do believe that Dodgers are interested. They're interested at a
certain price, I would imagine, so I wouldn't rule it out,
but I haven't heard that anything is close day.
Speaker 1 (45:23):
Final question, from what you've heard and who you talked to,
and you talk to everybody Sazaki, they've had the initial
round of meetings. If you're handicapping it, given who you've
talked to and what you've heard, how do you handicap it?
Speaker 2 (45:36):
Tred.
Speaker 14 (45:37):
A lot of people around the league that I've spoken
to believe it's coming down to the Padres or Dodgers.
That's the consensus from other teams out there. Obviously, geography
has a lot to do with it. You Darvish has
has a big part of what makes the Padres attractive.
The Dodgers obviously have a World Championship and the infrastructure
(46:00):
and Otani and Yamamoto, they got so much going for them.
So a lot of people believe it will be between
the Padres and Dodgers at the end of the day.
Speaker 1 (46:11):
All Right, we know you got a run. We appreciate
you jumping on again. Happy New Year and we'll talk
to you soon.
Speaker 14 (46:17):
All right, guys, Happy New year.
Speaker 1 (46:19):
Okay, there goes our buddy David Vassa at Dodgers Stadium.
Speaker 2 (46:25):
Well, there you go.
Speaker 1 (46:26):
Now we're on the Dodgers Rodney.
Speaker 2 (46:27):
There you go.
Speaker 1 (46:28):
There you go over good problems to have, as Brandon
Gome said, good problem to have, right, But we have
playoff football and that is starting very soon. So if
any Bond signior will join us next, we're coming on
chatting with us after the taskar Hernandez press conference as
well as David Bassey giving us some insights on what
(46:49):
the Dodgers may or may not do in the coming weeks.
College football playoffs, we're not of the semi finals. Overall,
I think it's okay.
Speaker 8 (46:59):
I like it.
Speaker 1 (46:59):
Yeah, you know, in the early rounds there was well,
they're gonna be some real blowouts and teams are gonna
be overmatched. That's okay because if you tell me, Arizona
State couldn't have beat Texas.
Speaker 2 (47:11):
That was a good game.
Speaker 1 (47:12):
They held their own, They held their own and you know,
if they get the the actual call of targeting in
that game, it could go differently. But that's how that's
how it goes, and Texas is in it. But yeah,
any team, you know, look I no one expected. At
least I didn't expect Ohio State to go and blowout
(47:32):
Oregon like they.
Speaker 2 (47:33):
Did in Rose Bowl. I mean Oregon. It was thirteen
and oh and it beat Texas in Austin.
Speaker 1 (47:37):
But I knew it was gonna be a tough ballgame
in Ohio State had gotten better, but I didn't expect
that to happen and it'd be a blowout.
Speaker 14 (47:45):
And then.
Speaker 2 (47:47):
You know, Notre Dame, who had a good season, I didn't.
Speaker 1 (47:50):
You know, I didn't necessarily think that they were a
powerhouse or a team that could go all the way
and win it, but you never know. I think when
teams get in it and they get to this point,
for which is why I think that the twelve team
playoff is a good thing, because look, Arizona State could
have very well won that game and been in it,
and I think they deserve to be in the playoffs.
(48:12):
Notre Dame could could very well beat Penn State and
be in the championship game. And I thought that Notre
Dame had some up and down points of their season
this year, but they're playing well right now and deserve
to be where they are. Thing I noticed, especially in
the Boise State Penn State game, and Boise State had
a great year and received a very high scene. But
(48:33):
here's the thing I noticed there is, and this may
shift now given this playoff, there was a distinguishable difference
between the players from Penn State and Boise State. Those
guys from Penn State looked like pros just physically. Yeah,
that game more was a difference to me than in
any of the other games. Maybe Indiana was a little
(48:54):
overmatch too, But I think that that Boise State Penn
State game, and I think they may have to re
evaluate if you're if you're a conference winner, you automatically
get the buy and you get you know, you get
seated higher and all that kind of stuff, because let's
face it, certain conferences are not as good as certain
other conferences. You think about, you know, the Big Ten
(49:17):
with Ohio State, Penn State, and Oregon in that conference
is probably the three best teams left. I mean, you
can throw Notre Dame in there, but those those are
probably the three best teams going into it. They're all
from one conference, but only one could get to buy
because the one won the conference. And so then you gotta,
you know, you gotta, you gotta face the other conference
winners like Boise State, which to me, I agree with
(49:40):
you were overmatched when they played Penn State. Yeah, I'll
tell you something. Arizona State physically was overmatched by Texas.
Speaker 2 (49:46):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (49:47):
Yeah, but they are gritty and they they played with
some heart and they've been doing that all season long.
Dillingham did a great job coaching that team. And you
know Scataboo, they running back is all heart. And I
hope somebody takes a chance on him in the NFL
and gives him a shot because he's a football player.
Speaker 2 (50:07):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (50:08):
I'm wondering now what the National Playoff if a team
like let's say Arizona State, all of a sudden, they
you know, if they have the money to spend with
the NIL, they got some big time guys, because if
you have a chance to play in that playoff, you
want that opportunity. And I'm wondering if some of these
(50:31):
teams that physically appeared to be a bit overmatched in
Arizona State was gritty, Boise State was overmatched, Indiana was overmatched.
I'm wondering if it improves their recruiting or I guess
they're portal management with guys wanting to come and play there.
I think I think it gave some because the first
(50:52):
year of it, I gave a tremendous exposure to a
lot of teams that may not have gotten it.
Speaker 2 (50:57):
I agree with you.
Speaker 1 (50:58):
I think that when you look at the transfer portal
and guys are looking up where I'm going to go,
that it put those twelve teams on the map, like
I want to go to Arizona State. Now they got
a good program going there in the playoffs. Even Boise State.
Now Boise State has been good for a number of years,
but being in this atmosphere and being in these playoffs,
I think it heightens people and players wanting to go
(51:19):
there and be a part of this. So I think
that it's been good for all the college programs. All right,
let's get back on the clock. Now we've got the
Rams and Chargers one game to go and then the
NFL playoffs. So VENNYE Bond signor NFL insider will join
us next
And we continue on Fred Rogan, Rodney Pete on a
five to seventy LA Sports, The Big Friday Show, The
Big Friday Show where anything goes. And this afternoon, what's
going iss? Hernandez is going to meet with the media
at Dodger Stadium. It should be starting momentarily. Tiascar, the
guy everybody wanted, agreed to a three year, sixty six
million dollar deal. What was the hold up, Well, they
(00:24):
were just trying to figure out how the contract would
be structured. Tiascar indicated that, you know, taxes in California
take a big bite out of you, so they wanted
to figure out a way to structure the deal where
he wouldn't get as hard by taxes and that's basically
why there was a delay. But he is going to
(00:45):
speak to the media and I bet you he will
be as happy as he's ever been in his life.
This is what he wanted, This is where he wanted
to be. There was a sense that he could have
sat a little longer, maybe got more money, a SCOH
shmore elsewhere, maybe a little longer deal perhaps somewhere else,
(01:06):
But the reality is this is where he wanted to be,
and the deal is done. And Dodger fans are thrilled
about it. Rodney and I am too, Fred, He's my man.
I'm so happy he's back. Much needed Tail. Come on
if you think about it, and we touched on it
an how ur one And by the way, if you
ever miss any part of the show, please feel free
(01:28):
to get the iHeartRadio app and go back listen to
the podcast because Kevin puts it up a minute we
get off the air, and if you had the app,
by the way, you can stream the show wherever you
go live so you never have to miss a second
of it. We will be with you each and every
day except Saturday and Sunday, and then we will have
you in our hearts.
Speaker 2 (01:45):
Monday through Friday.
Speaker 1 (01:47):
We will be with you anyway, Yes we will. We
did talk an hour one about now with Tail signed,
and they've also signed a player from Korea, an infielder
who they think will be a super utility player. He
Sung Kim So he has now signed for three years.
If you look at the roster, there aren't a lot
of holes. There aren't a lot of places that you
(02:10):
need to fill. And the feeling was are the Dodgers
going to do more? I mean they signed Blake Snell.
Now they've signed Ti Oscar. They went out and signed Confordo.
What else do they need? Well, and he Sung Kim.
They found a utility, super utility player. His primary position
to second base. He's played some of the corner, a
(02:30):
little bit of outfield as well. In his eight year
career in Korea, he hit three oh four last year
he sold forty six bases, so he can run overall
two hundred and eleven. That's a pretty good addition. And
if you have him and Chris Taylor and Migey Rojas,
there are your reserves. I think you have room for
one more, whoever that may be Dalton, Russia.
Speaker 2 (02:54):
Kiki. Don't just leave out Kiki just to leave out Kik.
Speaker 1 (02:57):
I'm not I'm just saying, yeah, okay, I'm just saying,
you know, in that scenario, it's gonna be Kik or Pahz.
Speaker 2 (03:04):
There's always trades happening.
Speaker 1 (03:06):
Fred, Well, that's true, that's true. But the only trade
you would make, well, let's see, I don't think anybody's
going to trade for Chris Taylor. They could, and no
disrespect to Chris because he could have a hell of
a year, but one year left on his deal. Yeah,
it's a tough deal, tough situation to trade, right, I mean,
maybe you take a flyer, you make a deal, you
(03:26):
trade for him. He comes in, he's tearing the cover
off the ball, and you give him three more wherever
he goes. I'm not sure that will happen. Mickey Rojas
has got a one year deal. He's not going anywhere,
all right, So Chris Taylor, Mickey Rojas, Now you have
Kim Dalton rushing. The young Dodger Phena will be up
this year as well. All right, But now let's go
(03:47):
to Dodger Stadium. Taskar Hernandez, Brandon Golden's the general manager,
and Dave Roberts are on the podium.
Speaker 3 (03:53):
Good yeah, all right, So thank you everybody for coming
here today on such short notice. Andrew was unable to
make it today, but I know he shares in the
excitement that we all have being able to have this
press conference today. I'm also incredibly excited as my eight
(04:15):
year old daughter has been asking me every day since
the end of the season, are we bringing Tale back?
Are we bringing Tale back? So I can officially say today, yes,
we're bringing Tale back. You know, all jokes aside. I
do think that that speaks volumes about who Tayo is
as a player and a person. You know, you can
(04:36):
feel the energy that he brings to the clubhouse, the
infectious smile that he has each and every day, and
it's not a surprise of why he's become a fan favorite,
so popular in a clubhouse and such an impactful piece
of what we do and you know, so important to
our coaching staff as well. You know, it's it was
(04:59):
great to see all you year bringing Tayo in. He
always put the team first and you could see that
there was a real, you know, love of the game
that he brought to the field each and every day.
I do think because of the way he plays with
such passion and joy when those big moments came up,
(05:21):
it was something that he really cherished and was able
to put the team first and slow the heartbeat down
and do whatever was needed in that situation. You know,
Doc says this all the time, and it's something that
I believe wholeheartedly as well. So if you play the
(05:41):
game the right way, the game will honor you and
the game role reward you. And what Tao has done,
you know, taking care of and mentoring his younger teammates
and having the amount of big moments that he had
this year and us being able to sit here today
is I think all a estimate to that. So you know,
(06:02):
in our initial talks last year, it's like, hey, this
is this is a one year deal. But in an
ideal world, we win a World Series and this relationship
gets to uh continue well beyond the one year. And
you know it doesn't always work out this way, but
I would say that we're, uh, We're in an ideal
world right now. So I'd like to officially welcome Taoe
(06:24):
back in Dodger Blue, and let's gonna win a lot
more World series together.
Speaker 4 (06:28):
Let's do it. Let's do it.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
Thank you, wasn't it too? News conference?
Speaker 2 (06:41):
Congratulations?
Speaker 5 (06:42):
You good love?
Speaker 2 (06:44):
What what about gosh?
Speaker 1 (06:47):
Now you can hear the media asking questions.
Speaker 6 (06:50):
I mean, uh, I always say this, the Dodgers they're different.
Speaker 4 (06:55):
Uh.
Speaker 6 (06:55):
They think about uh, everybody, not only the player, only
the things that I can do on the field. And
for me, it just they give me the confidence I
never get that really and in other places that I were,
they trust and everything that I can give them and
(07:18):
to this team and this organization and that was one
of the biggest things for me that pushed me do
the best job that I can do and in a
Dodgers uniform.
Speaker 7 (07:31):
First, welcome back and congratulations. When you were looking at
just this free agency, what were you prioritizing? And I
know you've talked a lot about wanting to be back
in Dodger blue now being back in Dodger Blue, but
just what was so important to you with this decision.
Speaker 6 (07:48):
Honestly, I went to free agency free agency. I think
I make that clear before I went there. The Dodgers
were the priority and I would I would going to
do everything in my power to came back. For me,
money wasn't an issue. I might I could have wait,
(08:09):
I could have weighed more offers from all the teams,
but I think the money it wasn't gonna be the difference.
I couldn't get like five or six more meal from.
Speaker 4 (08:20):
Other teams.
Speaker 6 (08:21):
And if you you put me in a place that
I have to decide, I would have decided to come back,
just because the way this organization is, the way this
organization trade a family and the players, and that for
me is more important than anything.
Speaker 8 (08:41):
For Brandon and Dave. You know you guys talk so
much during the postseason round about the clubhouse culture and
how that played out on the field. I mean, how
important has that been generally to preserve this offseason and
obviously with what Tail meant to that room, how much
of that kind of factor and to want to bring
him back to.
Speaker 2 (08:58):
I think so.
Speaker 9 (08:59):
I think you know, there's a part of the culture,
the talent piece that when you have the right pieces
players in place, you need to sustain it.
Speaker 2 (09:13):
And there's also another part of.
Speaker 9 (09:15):
Adding to that team of people that are realize the
bar of character, makeup, talent certainly, and hunger for winning.
And so you look at the acquisitions we've made this winner, we've.
Speaker 2 (09:36):
Checked that box as well.
Speaker 9 (09:38):
But a guy like Tayo, We've created a situation here
with the Dodgers that the bar is extremely high. It's
not just about getting the most talented players. You've got
to be good on the field and you've got to
play the game a certain way because what that does
is it makes people around you better. It holds the
(10:03):
teammates accountable. And when you're looking at young players who
out of system, you know they have something to aspire towards, right,
And so for us Tao checked every single box. And again,
like Gomer said, you know, shooting a one year flyer
on a player doesn't always you know, go out into
(10:27):
an extension or a multi year deal. But just what
he did for us and how he made everyone better,
it was a no brainer.
Speaker 10 (10:35):
Yeah, this could be for Brandon and for Tayo. What
was it that sort of allowed this deal to come
together the last couple months or so, just obviously from
more things started at the game of the off season.
Speaker 3 (10:47):
Yeah, you know, from very early on, right after the parade,
we had you know, been in contact with Ralfa Tao's agent,
and over the last year or so we've developed a
really good relationship and I think, you know, the most
important thing in these deals is continuing to hear, you know,
what is important on their side on our side, and
finding you know, the common ground there because we both
(11:10):
both said it from the get go, the desire and
the goal is that Tail stays with us. And you know,
ultimately because of that relationship and the understanding of where
both sides were, were able to to work that out.
Speaker 11 (11:31):
The Oscar fel insert Confianza the Dodgers to Marianestaunda c
ultimasco is Ermandaco for Maro in a clubhouse.
Speaker 6 (11:52):
See gentleman man and communicaup on the tant.
Speaker 4 (12:02):
Mariante group compart.
Speaker 6 (12:09):
Know Manto communicad Okay, Freddy to pasion, show to passion,
Migi rode to.
Speaker 4 (12:20):
Mantes. A communica is a.
Speaker 6 (12:25):
Man la communica lama for did so you know you
know commocated yours parents like the dogs even format see
lott so he needs you your made her seremon the
(12:53):
e regreso La regressa s a concrete contracted on the
Tomnas content with Felsi, the car.
Speaker 12 (13:13):
The loss, Mastivos and socialists comment and jookes.
Speaker 6 (13:23):
Tomado see so in flu and Tomarion, Yes, come Comato Colombo,
Dodgers La more Yes, Organizations, loud training organis a young
(13:44):
folgo be an emote, Joo, Magrand.
Speaker 12 (13:52):
Decision lest us and pasta.
Speaker 1 (14:02):
Are you listening to ask Hernandez's news conference.
Speaker 8 (14:07):
How much do you think the bonds you guys built
as a team during the postseason run last year like
being back now? How much you think it's going to
help carrying over into twenty twenty five? Is you guys
try to defend the World Series.
Speaker 6 (14:19):
For us, I'm gonna speak about myself, but I'm sure
that the other guys, if you ask them, they're going
to say the same thing. What is in the past
is in the past. We're not going to think about
what we did in twenty twenty four. We got our
minds clear, we know what we can do. Our team
(14:40):
is better this year, and like I always said, if
we stay healthy.
Speaker 4 (14:45):
We can do special things. In twenty twenty five is
going to be one of them.
Speaker 8 (14:49):
And then for Brandon, I'm not sure how much you
can talk about the other news that might be happening today,
but just generally you guys have talked about, you know,
keep being it short. Looks at second, like does that
calculation change at all with some of the other things
that you have coming down the pipe right now?
Speaker 3 (15:07):
No, I mean that that's still the mindset, and you know,
talking with doct A O being right and you know,
CONFORDO and left then kind of go from there. I think,
like we've said all along, continuing to add talent and
build a balanced lineup to go out and repeat is
our goal. And we feel like we're you know, we've
(15:28):
taken steps and we'll continue to take steps towards doing.
Speaker 5 (15:31):
That the ospar congratulations on the new deal. You mentioned
throughout this season, how big it was to have the
support from Dodgers fans and he had that emotional moment.
Speaker 4 (15:44):
At the parade.
Speaker 5 (15:45):
How big was that for you to be embraced by
Dodgers fans into that and all factor in your decision
to resign here huge.
Speaker 6 (15:53):
I always take that in mind. I appreciate signs. The
first day that I got here, the Dodgers Science, they
were in there. They were cheating for me. They were
giving me the support that I need to have the
season that I have last year, not only for me,
but for the whole team. And when you have that support,
(16:13):
you just as a player, you think you have to
give one hundred and ten percent every day for this
fan base so they can get the match out of
every single game.
Speaker 5 (16:24):
And you made it very clear you wanted to resign here,
and you said in a recent interview that you receive
offers from other teams. At any point, was there ever
a doubt that you were going to resign here or
at the end of the day, did you of me
think you'd be back?
Speaker 6 (16:36):
Not really, Like I said, I have my mind clear
that I wanted to come back and that I was
going to do anything.
Speaker 4 (16:45):
In my power to make it work and be back
with the Dodgers.
Speaker 7 (16:57):
Till in what ways did it being with the Dodgers
help your comfort this last season?
Speaker 2 (17:00):
How do you maintain that moving forward?
Speaker 6 (17:03):
I always have confidence in myself. Just because I had
a really, really good season last year, it doesn't mean
that my confidence is going to be higher this year.
I'm just going to focus on the things that I
got to do on the baseball field to get this
thing a win in that day, and just moving forward,
(17:25):
just trying to stay healthy and be on the field
the whole season, playing for this team and doing the
little things to get the Dodgers to win.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
Yeah.
Speaker 4 (17:41):
Thank thank you, guys, Thank you guys, thank you.
Speaker 1 (17:44):
All Right, there you go, do you ask her? Hernandez
talking to the media at Dodger Stadium, his first public
comments and signing his three year, sixty six million dollar
deal Rodney and I think it went pretty much as expected.
He's a happy guy. This is the only place you
wanted to be. He's not shy about talking about why
(18:11):
he wanted to be a Dodger last year and why
he wanted to come here and was very happy and excited.
And so it's no surprise that when this deal happened,
or that he wanted a deal to happen with the Dodgers,
that he was also excited about it because this is
the place where he wanted to be fred and it
showed last year. He performed last year as you mentioned,
(18:32):
he went out and wanted the home run derby. He
did everything you could ask for for a Dodger teammate
on and off the field. He was a leader in
that clubhouse. He brought the sunflower seeds to every home run.
I mean, he embraced everything. Remember the first guy that
kind of really opened Otani up to the media was
(18:53):
ta Oscar getting him to speak Spanish and just teaching
him Spanish and having fun with him and light in
the mood a little bit.
Speaker 2 (19:01):
It was ti Oscar.
Speaker 1 (19:02):
So from a clubhouse standpoint, and I can say this
from being in locker room, you love a guy like that.
You want a guy like that on your team that
can not only lighten the locker room and make sure
he comes in with a positive attitude every day, but also.
Speaker 2 (19:18):
Can play his ass off too.
Speaker 1 (19:20):
Interesting, Brandon Gome said, as did Dave Roberts. When you
sign it gout to a one year deal, you're basically
taking a flyer on all. Right, come on in Michael Confordo,
they're taking a flyer on him. Interested that wait on
that Confortal thing that they said he was gonna play
left and right?
Speaker 2 (19:38):
Yeah, I noticed that. Yeah.
Speaker 1 (19:41):
So anyway, they take the flyer on ti Oscar and
you don't know how it's gonna work out. I mean,
it's a one year deal, but it turns out to
be a blessing. Not only does he have a terrific season,
become an integral part of the club, become a huge
fan favorite, but they win the World Series all because
(20:02):
he chose to take a one year deal here. And
they said, this doesn't happen very often. Sure, you want
to if you sign somebody, you hope they'll be with
you for a while, But for it to happen the
way it did, that he was deserving of this extension
and this deal. Think about it, though, Fred, think about
even with the Dodgers, but around the league as well.
(20:23):
We just saw Wan Soto take the flyer with the Yankees,
and now he's a met Obviously he was in San
Diego for a minute before that. But you know, he's
a met even with the Dodgers. You know the Max
Scherzer situation. He came in, took a flyer on him,
try to go win the World So he's gone. And
even though Trey Turner was a two year deal, he
(20:44):
was gone after that. It wasn't a long term deal.
And I don't think many people believe because he was
I think a lot of people felt he wanted to
be back on the East Coast, meaning Trey Turner, and
so that was not a long term deal. It was
a moment that they could get those guys and get
him in there and see what happened. But it doesn't
often work out that way where you take a flyer
on a guy for a one year run to the
(21:06):
World Series and then you ended up sign him to
a long term deal.
Speaker 2 (21:10):
I think it's great, great for the Dodgers.
Speaker 1 (21:12):
Yeah, and it's it doesn't happen often when the guy
is Tao's age, no, and it's been around as long
as he has.
Speaker 2 (21:21):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (21:22):
I mean, look, Tommy Edmund, they extended him immediately immediately.
He's not making Yeah, but to Tommy, I would put
him in a different category because they had their eye
on Tommy for years. I mean, they were very open
about talking about how much they wanted him in the
organization for years and finally got that opportunity. So I
wasn't shocked by them immediately signing him to a long
(21:44):
term deal. But other guys, yeah, you know, go back
even you Darvis brought him in for a flyer and
he was gone the next year.
Speaker 2 (21:52):
You know.
Speaker 1 (21:52):
Granted, the Game seven didn't work out very well, so
that was kind of right in on the wall. But
still it doesn't happen very often when you take flyers
on guys like that, or guys even even from the
player standpoint, Fred, where guys is I want to go
to the Dodgers, get me self fixed. I want to
go when I want to be in a great organization,
then I'll go make my big money somewhere else. That
(22:14):
that kind of is the mentality. And and then rarely
happens where a guy takes a bet on himself, has
a great year, the team does well, and he ends
up staying with the team.
Speaker 2 (22:25):
Usually some other club gives him a bigger deal that
he's got to go.
Speaker 1 (22:29):
He said, he said, I could have gone somewhere else
for five or six million dollars more.
Speaker 2 (22:33):
He said that.
Speaker 1 (22:35):
But it's interesting when when you get here at this
point in time in Dodger history, you.
Speaker 2 (22:41):
Really don't want to live thirty thirty? What is he? Kevin?
Thirty thirty two? I believe thirty two.
Speaker 1 (22:46):
Okay, you really don't want to go Rodney when you
get here at this time in Dodger history, obviously there
was a time where you'd want to get out of
here as quickly as possible.
Speaker 2 (22:55):
And your age and your age, Yeah, I.
Speaker 1 (22:58):
Don't want to go anywhere. I'm just good here. Look
at what Max Muntsey said when there was talk about
Nolan Ernato. Hey, he's the best defensive third basement in
the game. You know what, I'll be a platoon guy.
Speaker 2 (23:10):
I'm good.
Speaker 1 (23:11):
I just don't want to go anywhere else. I just
want to be here. Whatever you want to do with me.
He didn't say, that's my position and I want to
play every day. He didn't say it comes, I got
to get out of here. You got to get rid
of me if he comes. He didn't say that. Yeah,
it was like, we'll work it out. I'll be here
if I got a platoon I'll platoon. Yeah, something about
this place that is unique and different and we're not Look,
(23:35):
you know, people around the country if they hear as
we'll say, oh, you guys are homers. But it really
because we've been in it and we've seen this team
work year in and year out, and the people that
come here and the players we've talked to, the administration
people that we've talked to, it is a special place
that like no other I.
Speaker 2 (23:54):
Think in any sport right now. It's a place where.
Speaker 1 (24:01):
Not only players want to come, but they also get
compensated for coming here, and you've got a chance to
win championships every single year. That's unique to any team
in any sport right now. The Dodgers are above everybody
else in any sport when it comes to what they
(24:22):
bring to the table or a player that wants to
play here. And the funny thing is, and this works
in all ways of business. Think about what you do,
whatever your job is, or whatever your job has been.
You know something, when you leave a place, it's always
hard and there's kind of a bad taste to just
(24:42):
be honest, there is you're always a little ticked off
if they decide you're not coming back if they go
in a different direction, there's that taste that's in your
mouth and it's not good. Isn't it ironic that whoever
comes here wants to stay here, and because of the
way they treat everybody. If then when that time is up,
(25:04):
they're like, thank you for the opportunity. Nobody seems to
be pissed at them. Nobody's upset, No players are upset.
And it's really interesting how they do it. I think
they're brutally honest with everybody.
Speaker 2 (25:19):
That you said it right there, you said it.
Speaker 1 (25:21):
We've talked to guys and say, look, I'm on the
bubble as a guy that can come back here. They
told me to go out and test the market. They
were upfront with me. They said, we'd like you back,
but we're not gonna stand in your way. If you
can get a better deal, go get a better deal,
bring it back to us, and then we'll evaluate that.
Speaker 2 (25:38):
Not every team does that. Every team does that.
Speaker 1 (25:41):
A lot of teams say, oh, okay, you don't take
this deal, then then you got forty eight hours to
make a decision and we're done with you. Or if
you talk to somebody else, then we're not gonna you're
not gonna have opportunity here. They get bitter about it.
But the Dodgers and Andrew Friedman has said that to
us that he is very open about being fair to guys. Hey, listen,
if you can get more money elsewhere and go for it,
(26:04):
go for it. We're open to that, and we're not
gonna We're not gonna be bitter about it. We're not
gonna hold a grudge. And if we can match it
at the end of the day, we'll match it. And
if we can't, you got paid. Yeah, it's a fascinating
way of doing business. And even listening to Brandon Gomes,
he sounds like Andrew Friedman. Yeah, the philosophy, the philosophy,
(26:28):
even the delivery. It's like they are so buttoned up
in what they do and how they do it. And
I don't know if a team in professional sports that
operates this way. I don't know many businesses that operate
this way. I mean, I was just gonna use the Dodgers.
It's funny I have this philosophy in this news show.
I do because it's a very different world and the
(26:48):
one thing you get in news is a statement, Hey,
we're gonna report this anybody available to be interviewed. No,
but we'll send you a statement. And I was going
to and I am going to do this thing tonight.
We're not using statements anymore. If you send me a statement,
then I'm going to interpret what I think it means,
because what I know it is is a bunch of bs.
I'm well aware of that. I've read enough of these.
Speaker 2 (27:09):
Oh my god, Oh my god, Kevin is a monster
created right now.
Speaker 1 (27:13):
No, but that's what I'm gonna do, and it's funny.
We're gonna lead our show with it tonight. If you
send me a state, is what id Rogan right? Because
I know it's a bunch of garbage. We know that
it's being a statement. Come on and tell me straight
out what you mean. That's right, send me a statement.
Here's the thing. When somebody sends you a statement, Well,
(27:36):
if the Dodger sends you one, it's because something just happened,
then they'll talk about it. But the majority of time
in the media, if somebody sends out a statement that
means right, they don't want to answer the questions you
want to ask.
Speaker 2 (27:50):
Uh huh.
Speaker 1 (27:51):
We will tell you what we want you to know.
But I don't want to know any of that. I
don't care about any of what you're saying. I want
you to answer these questions. And so I'm doing this
thing tonight. No more statements, and I will interpret some
things people have sent us tonight, and they'll hate me because,
let me trust me, the people in the government out
(28:12):
here hate me, hate me. They do not like me.
Speaker 2 (28:17):
You are you going? Not going rogan, but you're going rogue? Fred?
Speaker 1 (28:20):
Are you kind of out there in the desert? I
kind of am as I said tonight, Well, we're going
to focus on something. And for the majority of you,
if we focus on you, then it's going to be
a bad week. And let's get to it. That's how
we started last night. If I say we're going to
take a look into something, somebody's having a bad night,
somebody is having a really bad night, We're going.
Speaker 2 (28:42):
To keep doing it.
Speaker 1 (28:43):
Kevin, if you happen to be in the desert, you
and Lauren happen to go take a trip down there,
make sure you don't go out.
Speaker 2 (28:48):
To dinner with Fred.
Speaker 1 (28:49):
Well, don't get here in my car.
Speaker 2 (28:50):
Yeah, don't get in there his car.
Speaker 1 (28:52):
Don't go out to dinner with don't be in proximity
of Fred, because there might be casuals.
Speaker 2 (28:58):
Damage.
Speaker 1 (29:00):
But the point is this, and it's funny this happened,
and we're talking about this because I was going to
use the Dodgers as the example tonight, because a lot
of people here are from LA and they're still huge
Dodger fans. And I was gonna say, let me tell
you the right way to conduct your business. Let me
tell you. You ask those guys a question, They're gonna
give you the answer. You might not like the answer,
(29:22):
they're gonna give you the answer. And the funniest part
of it is they're gonna tell you the truth. And
I don't know how they do that all the time.
If you ask one of them a question, if you
ask Andrew Friedman a question, he will give you the answer.
You might not like it, but he will give it
to you. If you ask Dave Roberts a question, we
know this all too well, he will give you the answer.
(29:46):
You might disagree, you might disagree, but I'll tell you
one thing. He's not trying to pull any punches are
fully of You're not trying to hide. I'll even take
it for a step further, Fred, because we you know
pulling the curtain back. We are partners with the Dodgers,
and when there's been there's shake up here about a
month ago, we're kind of figuring out what's going on,
(30:10):
and they're the one person that we called to figure
out what was going on, got right back to us
and told us, get us on the phone, Get on
the phone, fred Fred, get Rodney, get Fred on the phone.
We'll talk about it. And that was at the answers
to what was going on, and that was at seven
thirty in the morning. Yes, all right, let's bring on
the general manager the Dodgers, Brandon Gomes and Brandon thank
(30:31):
you for hanging out a couple of minutes with us.
Speaker 13 (30:34):
Yeah, thanks for having me fellas.
Speaker 1 (30:36):
Okay, was there ever a question in your mind that
you would get the Hernandez feel done?
Speaker 13 (30:41):
I mean, you never feel one hundred percent confident on anything,
but you know, from having conversations very early on, right
after the World Series, I think from both ends, who
was a priority for us to make it happen and
bring him back where he belongs. So, you know, without
ever feeling percent on anything, we felt confident that the
(31:02):
communication was heading in the right direction. We were going
to be able to do something that. You know, both
sides were very happy with Brandon.
Speaker 2 (31:11):
What is it about the Dodgers?
Speaker 1 (31:12):
We've We've talked about this for years out You guys
are unique in all of sports. I played football for
a number of years and don't remember organization being as
upfront with its players, its employees like you guys are.
That you get guys that want to come here number one,
and then want to stay here, feel like they can
(31:35):
come here and get fixed, feel feel they can come
here and get right, feel like they can come here
and get treated fairly.
Speaker 2 (31:42):
What what I mean?
Speaker 1 (31:43):
What is it that you guys have over other clubs
that make so many players want to come here so bad?
I mean, I know the winning and all that, but
just more of the environment.
Speaker 13 (31:55):
Yeah, I mean, I think it's you know, it's really
important to us when our players come in that they
feel like we are being open and honest with them,
knowing that we're going to pour everything we can into them.
You know, make it a point to have their families
feel important and have that taken care of, because I mean,
(32:17):
as you know, like if your family's in a good place,
that's one less thing you need to worry about when
you get on the field and you can perform to
your highest level and have as few distractions as possible,
you know, and then you talk about how talented our
coaching staff is, the culture that Doc creates and the
expectation of winning is important. Our fans pour into us,
(32:40):
we want to turn around and pour into them with
great players, in a great atmosphere and a winning team
every single year. So you know, we love the fact
that when guys come in they feel confident that they're
going to play at their highest level, but also you
know we're going to take care of them and their family,
and you know, the ultimate goal of winning a Chaincempion
(33:00):
chip is is on the table every single year.
Speaker 1 (33:04):
Dodger JM. Brandon Gomes with us on the show. Okay,
he saw Kim signed him out of Korea. I believe
a three year deal. You look at his numbers career wise,
he's hitting three h four thirty seven home runs. Last
year he stole forty six bases. Looks like he's a
second baseman by trade, plays a little third and be
in the outfield. If this guy, well, first, where did
(33:27):
he come from? Brandon? Let's start with that, and how
long have you been pursuing him?
Speaker 13 (33:32):
I mean, we knew he was going to be posted
this year. We actually played against him when we were
in Korea in one of our exhibition games, and you
know it was our scouts had been following him for
a while, but it was very evident, like the speed,
that the defensive skill that there was real talent. So
I mean having the ability to add somebody who's a
double plus runner, a really good defender at multiple spots,
(33:56):
and then having real upside to tap into on the
bat gets working with our hitting crew was something that
was very exciting for us to be able to add
to the organization.
Speaker 1 (34:07):
I know you're looking at him in a super utility role,
but let me just be honest with you. So let's
say he gets over here but just quickly works with
the hitting staff and a guy can really hit. Add
that to all of the other things you just said.
Can that guy be a utility player or does he
have to play every day?
Speaker 3 (34:26):
Yeah?
Speaker 13 (34:27):
I think those are We would love to have those
good problems as we've had over the last few years.
Those things tend to work themselves out, you know, whether
it be injuries or guys just playing into a more
consistent role. And you know, one of the things that
Top does such a great job of is making sure
guys are staying relevant and mixing in because it is
(34:48):
a long season and having guys fresh for the stretch
run in October is really important. So as these guys perform,
you know, things inevitably happen to allow for some consistent
playing time. So I don't see that being a factor.
If you know, if all those things play out, all.
Speaker 2 (35:07):
Right, Brandon, what now? I mean you can you can
you relax now?
Speaker 1 (35:10):
I mean, you've done everything more than people thought you
were going to do in this offseason, and and it
it feels like it's still early before pitchers and catchers report.
Speaker 2 (35:21):
Are you guys done?
Speaker 1 (35:22):
Are you still being aggressive in some other areas in
terms of free agency?
Speaker 13 (35:27):
Yeah, I mean I think our goal is always to
continue to see what's available, and you know, we've had
the support of ownership all along to to go out
and put together whatever we feel like we need to
do to put the best team out there to repeat.
So definitely not going to sit back and put our
feet up. Will continue to see how the market plays
(35:49):
out in different areas and be opportunistic and continue to
to add talent.
Speaker 2 (35:55):
You know.
Speaker 13 (35:55):
In one of the goals this year it is every year,
but especially this year, is that you try to address
as many things as we can now so we don't
have to go out and buy during the deadline.
Speaker 2 (36:08):
So that is, you know, our.
Speaker 13 (36:10):
Mindset right now, and we'll keep you know, looking over
the market and trying to figure out different ways that
we can make this team team better.
Speaker 1 (36:18):
Last question, Brandon, we appreciate you joining us. Rookie Sazaki.
So after the meetings were held and no players were there,
he was given everybody a homework assignment and everybody reported
back with their findings. The one thing I took from
what I read is that he indicated he wanted to
go to a place, or at least his representative did,
where he could be better, where he could be the best.
(36:39):
He wanted to go to a place where they were
going to invest in him with technology, with coaching, and
make him the very best picture he can be. If
in fact that's true, and I said this the other
day to Rodney, then why is he meeting with anybody
but the Dodgers If he wants to go to a
place where they're going to make him the best why
(36:59):
would he talk anybody else.
Speaker 13 (37:02):
Yeah, well, I think we're all biased here, so I'm
happy to go along with this. But yeah, I mean,
I think it's evident with the decision that he's making
that the goal is to be, you know, one of
the best pitchers, if not the best best pitcher in
the world. Otherwise he wouldn't be coming out now. So yeah,
we feel very good about our our pitching group and
(37:22):
our development crew and you know, performance staff trainers to
be able to do that and put you know, players
in the best position to succeed and perform. So hopefully
that you know, that ends up shining through and we'll
see how that ends up playing out.
Speaker 1 (37:39):
Thanks for jumping on today. We know you're busy. We
really appreciate it.
Speaker 13 (37:42):
Appreciate it Bright, You got it, guys, Thanks for having me.
Speaker 1 (37:44):
All right, there, he goes general manager of the Dodgers,
Brandon Golmes. You're always going to ask him that. Come on,
you know I had to ask him about spot.
Speaker 2 (37:53):
I had to.
Speaker 1 (37:55):
Okay, we're way behind. Let's take a quick break, all right,
back with more on what Brandon Gomes said. I have
some thoughts on it, all right, Fred Rugg and Rodney
Pete and in five seventy LA Sports you heard Dodger
general manager Brandon Gomes. You also heard from Tayl Hernandez.
(38:18):
And again, I mean, yeah, we talked to Brandon Golmmes.
He answered the questions. He didn't say much, to be
quite honest with you, he really didn't, but he gave
us a little insight into what they did. The thing is,
when you get done dealing with those guys, and we
think David Vassi is going to jump on here in
a second, he was out there. When you get done
dealing with these guys, you actually feel like, Okay, I
(38:38):
got the story. You actually believe that. And I think
it would be a really good page to take from
the Dodger book with almost everybody else in town. I
think that'd be the best way to handle things going forward.
Some teams do something, we are talking about. What are
you talking about? I mean, just the way you deal
with the fans in the media. The RAMS do a
(39:00):
very good job of telling you what's going on. You mean,
but you like the RAMS telling you we're not going
to have a good year. I just like the MS
telling you something.
Speaker 2 (39:10):
But they made the playoffs, all right?
Speaker 1 (39:12):
Well, they made a mistake, but at least they said something.
I don't know if they made a mistake in Sanatat
or making the playoffs, but mistake, but they they talk
to you all right. Now, here's somebody that's not afraid
to tell us what's going on. David Vasse, Dave, good
afternoon to you.
Speaker 3 (39:27):
What.
Speaker 14 (39:28):
Happy New year, Hey, Happy New Year. I'm here at
Dodger Stadium in the Stadium club where Tioscar Hernandez just
had his press conference, and I'm staring out at a
Dodger Stadium that is starting to take shape, but still
obviously a month away from being completely ready to go.
Speaker 1 (39:47):
Yeah, a lot of renovations going on out there. Dodgers Stadium,
new clubhouse, new locker rooms, all that kind of stuff.
Speaker 14 (39:54):
They heard RJ demanded it, Rodney, I heard your son,
RJ demanded he wants his own locker, he wants his
own jacuzzi and sauna.
Speaker 1 (40:06):
I'm absolutely amazed that they are getting as much done
as they are in this period of time, Dave.
Speaker 14 (40:12):
Fred It's a twenty four to seven working schedule here
to get it done in time for when the Dodgers
season begins. They're supposed to host just one of the
three Freeway Series games. You know, in all conceivable ways,
you can imagine maybe if they needed more time with
the Dodgers starting the season in Tokyo this year, that
(40:33):
they could play all three in Anaheim if they really
needed that extra day.
Speaker 1 (40:38):
Right, all right, Dave, let's get to the press conference.
I mean, obviously it felt like ta Oscar really wanted
to be back here, and he bet on himself coming here,
wanted to be here, and then wanted a deal done
and didn't really want to go anywhere else. Is that
what that I'm hearing right way?
Speaker 14 (40:57):
Yeah, I spoke to Tao and he's gonna you'll hear
from him on Dodger Talk tonight at seven o'clock. But
basically express that Rodney. Remember this is the second straight
off season he's gone through free agency. Last year he
was a late sign and that's the reason why he
took a one year contract to bet on himself and
it paid off. Not too many times does a player
(41:18):
sign a one year contract and come back to the
same team on a multi year deal. But it wasn't
just what he did on the field, it's the way
he invested himself in Dave Roberts and his teammates and
in the city. A lot of times when you have
a rental type of player, they got one foot in,
one foot out. But Tao was all in from day one.
(41:41):
And I think that's the reason why the Dodgers and
Taoscar were able to get this deal done, because they
had a great working relationship all season long, and when
in the World Series doesn't hurt, it would be really
tough for Taoscar to leave this, as he said during
the press conference, for five or six million dollars, that's
(42:01):
really not worth it. At the end of the day, Dave, He's.
Speaker 1 (42:05):
On Kim the Korean second baseman, super utility player. Look
at his numbers and Brandon Gomes said they had an
eye on him when they were playing an exhibition game
last year. Look at his numbers and if he can
hit major league pitching, he's pretty good. Do you see
him moving into some sort of a starting role.
Speaker 14 (42:25):
Not right now, Fred. I feel like right now he's
a bench player that you know, gives the Dodgers a
lot of depths. He's a really good fielding second baseman.
The people I've spoken to that have scouted him, said
the bat is light. But Brandon Gomes, you guys just
talk to him, believes that Dodgers hitting coaches can help
(42:46):
him be a better hitter. So right now, as the
roster is constructed, Gavin Lux is still the second baseman.
Speaker 2 (42:55):
What about Key K?
Speaker 14 (42:59):
From what I was told, Fred, this signing of Kim
and bringing back ta Oscar hernandez U does not preclude
the Dodgers from bringing back Key K. So uh, there
is still a very good possibility the Dodgers will bring
back KEYK hernandez The door is not shut with this
signing of the Korean infielder.
Speaker 2 (43:19):
Wow.
Speaker 1 (43:20):
Wow, I didn't think they'd have a slots Dave.
Speaker 14 (43:24):
Well, right now they're full. I'm not sure you guys
saw the corresponding move. Diego Kartaya was DFA to make
room on the forty man roster. So that's that's the move.
And they're at forty right now, exactly forty, and they
would have to make some different roster moves to be
(43:45):
able to sign another player, whether it be Key K
or somebody else, or you know, you have to make
a trade in some form or fashion to make room
for another player on your forty man roster before spring training. Yeah,
Dave Wi, can you tell us about you know a
lot of this stuff like Rodney, there's a really good
chance that key K doesn't sign until spring training starts,
(44:08):
similar to last year, because when spring training begins, that's
when you can put players on the sixty day injured list,
which opens up forty nine roster spots. So key K
wants to come back, he may be motivated to wait
it out right.
Speaker 2 (44:25):
Right, which it sounds like he definitely wants to come back.
Speaker 1 (44:27):
But you know, we'll see. What can you tell us
about Tanner Scott in the pursuit of him? Is it
worth it? Is it something that's serious or is this
just been thrown out there?
Speaker 14 (44:39):
Yeah?
Speaker 9 (44:39):
I was.
Speaker 14 (44:40):
I started to hear his name at the winter meetings
and we'll have to see where it goes. I mean,
nobody has signed Tanner Scott, nobody has signed Kenley Janssen.
So there really hasn't been a big time free agent
or leader that has come off the board. A lot
of people believe going into the winner that the position
(45:01):
players would be signed and the starting pitchers would be signed,
and Tanner Scott and Kenley Jansen would be the last ones,
the last tier of free agents to sign. So I
do believe that Dodgers are interested. They're interested at a
certain price, I would imagine, so I wouldn't rule it out,
but I haven't heard that anything is close day.
Speaker 1 (45:23):
Final question, from what you've heard and who you talked to,
and you talk to everybody Sazaki, they've had the initial
round of meetings. If you're handicapping it, given who you've
talked to and what you've heard, how do you handicap it?
Speaker 2 (45:36):
Tred.
Speaker 14 (45:37):
A lot of people around the league that I've spoken
to believe it's coming down to the Padres or Dodgers.
That's the consensus from other teams out there. Obviously, geography
has a lot to do with it. You Darvish has
has a big part of what makes the Padres attractive.
The Dodgers obviously have a World Championship and the infrastructure
(46:00):
and Otani and Yamamoto, they got so much going for them.
So a lot of people believe it will be between
the Padres and Dodgers at the end of the day.
Speaker 1 (46:11):
All Right, we know you got a run. We appreciate
you jumping on again. Happy New Year and we'll talk
to you soon.
Speaker 14 (46:17):
All right, guys, Happy New year.
Speaker 1 (46:19):
Okay, there goes our buddy David Vassa at Dodgers Stadium.
Speaker 2 (46:25):
Well, there you go.
Speaker 1 (46:26):
Now we're on the Dodgers Rodney.
Speaker 2 (46:27):
There you go.
Speaker 1 (46:28):
There you go over good problems to have, as Brandon
Gome said, good problem to have, right, But we have
playoff football and that is starting very soon. So if
any Bond signior will join us next, we're coming on
chatting with us after the taskar Hernandez press conference as
well as David Bassey giving us some insights on what
(46:49):
the Dodgers may or may not do in the coming weeks.
College football playoffs, we're not of the semi finals. Overall,
I think it's okay.
Speaker 8 (46:59):
I like it.
Speaker 1 (46:59):
Yeah, you know, in the early rounds there was well,
they're gonna be some real blowouts and teams are gonna
be overmatched. That's okay because if you tell me, Arizona
State couldn't have beat Texas.
Speaker 2 (47:11):
That was a good game.
Speaker 1 (47:12):
They held their own, They held their own and you know,
if they get the the actual call of targeting in
that game, it could go differently. But that's how that's
how it goes, and Texas is in it. But yeah,
any team, you know, look I no one expected. At
least I didn't expect Ohio State to go and blowout
(47:32):
Oregon like they.
Speaker 2 (47:33):
Did in Rose Bowl. I mean Oregon. It was thirteen
and oh and it beat Texas in Austin.
Speaker 1 (47:37):
But I knew it was gonna be a tough ballgame
in Ohio State had gotten better, but I didn't expect
that to happen and it'd be a blowout.
Speaker 14 (47:45):
And then.
Speaker 2 (47:47):
You know, Notre Dame, who had a good season, I didn't.
Speaker 1 (47:50):
You know, I didn't necessarily think that they were a
powerhouse or a team that could go all the way
and win it, but you never know. I think when
teams get in it and they get to this point,
for which is why I think that the twelve team
playoff is a good thing, because look, Arizona State could
have very well won that game and been in it,
and I think they deserve to be in the playoffs.
(48:12):
Notre Dame could could very well beat Penn State and
be in the championship game. And I thought that Notre
Dame had some up and down points of their season
this year, but they're playing well right now and deserve
to be where they are. Thing I noticed, especially in
the Boise State Penn State game, and Boise State had
a great year and received a very high scene. But
(48:33):
here's the thing I noticed there is, and this may
shift now given this playoff, there was a distinguishable difference
between the players from Penn State and Boise State. Those
guys from Penn State looked like pros just physically. Yeah,
that game more was a difference to me than in
any of the other games. Maybe Indiana was a little
(48:54):
overmatch too, But I think that that Boise State Penn
State game, and I think they may have to re
evaluate if you're if you're a conference winner, you automatically
get the buy and you get you know, you get
seated higher and all that kind of stuff, because let's
face it, certain conferences are not as good as certain
other conferences. You think about, you know, the Big Ten
(49:17):
with Ohio State, Penn State, and Oregon in that conference
is probably the three best teams left. I mean, you
can throw Notre Dame in there, but those those are
probably the three best teams going into it. They're all
from one conference, but only one could get to buy
because the one won the conference. And so then you gotta,
you know, you gotta, you gotta face the other conference
winners like Boise State, which to me, I agree with
(49:40):
you were overmatched when they played Penn State. Yeah, I'll
tell you something. Arizona State physically was overmatched by Texas.
Speaker 2 (49:46):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (49:47):
Yeah, but they are gritty and they they played with
some heart and they've been doing that all season long.
Dillingham did a great job coaching that team. And you
know Scataboo, they running back is all heart. And I
hope somebody takes a chance on him in the NFL
and gives him a shot because he's a football player.
Speaker 2 (50:07):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (50:08):
I'm wondering now what the National Playoff if a team
like let's say Arizona State, all of a sudden, they
you know, if they have the money to spend with
the NIL, they got some big time guys, because if
you have a chance to play in that playoff, you
want that opportunity. And I'm wondering if some of these
(50:31):
teams that physically appeared to be a bit overmatched in
Arizona State was gritty, Boise State was overmatched, Indiana was overmatched.
I'm wondering if it improves their recruiting or I guess
they're portal management with guys wanting to come and play there.
I think I think it gave some because the first
(50:52):
year of it, I gave a tremendous exposure to a
lot of teams that may not have gotten it.
Speaker 2 (50:57):
I agree with you.
Speaker 1 (50:58):
I think that when you look at the transfer portal
and guys are looking up where I'm going to go,
that it put those twelve teams on the map, like
I want to go to Arizona State. Now they got
a good program going there in the playoffs. Even Boise State.
Now Boise State has been good for a number of years,
but being in this atmosphere and being in these playoffs,
I think it heightens people and players wanting to go
(51:19):
there and be a part of this. So I think
that it's been good for all the college programs. All right,
let's get back on the clock. Now we've got the
Rams and Chargers one game to go and then the
NFL playoffs. So VENNYE Bond signor NFL insider will join
us next
Roggin And Rodney News
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