MLB: The Dodgers are Surprising People

Though the Dodgers lost today, they have had a fantastic first half. With 53 wins, this Dodger team is the best team since 1977. Although no member of the media believed the Dodgers would have a competitive team, the Dodgers proved them wrong.

Again Jim Tracy showed he knew his players well. Picking Dave Roberts to play center field and be the lead-off hitter has looked like a brilliant decision. Roberts has given the Dodgers what they have needed since Brett Butler had throat cancer since 1996.

Many people believed Tracy was putting to pressure on a 22-year-old shortstop Cesar Izturis. Though Izturis has not been hitting much, he stabilized the Dodger infield. He has the skills and instincts rarely seen in a player so young.

Eric Gagne may be the most valuable player on the Dodgers. Before this season, it looked as if Gagne would have a marginal successful major league career as a starter. However, as a closer, Gagne looks destined for a Cy Young award. He obtained thirty saves faster than any pitcher in the history of Major League Baseball.

The Dodger pitching staff has been remarkable. Entering today's game, the Dodgers had the second lowest ERA in baseball. This staff is anchored by Hideo Nomo and Odalis Perez. When Kevin Brown had back surgery, many people groaned, but they are doing okay without him. Darren Dreifort may come back in August or September.

Eric Karros has rebounded from a disappointing season. Though today he had no hits, he has become a good contact hitter. This season he had many important hits. His flexibility and range has been best since 1997.

The Dodgers have had disappointments this year. Hampered by various injuries, Mark Grudzielanek has not contributed offensively as much as the Dodgers expected, but in July he has done better. Adrian Beltre is a puzzle. Beltre has so much talent that is scary. Beltre leads the National League in errors by a third baseman, and his batting average is .238. Hopefully, both Grudzielanek and Beltre will improve the second half.

The Dodgers should be proud of what they have accomplished. They should take the All-Star break as an opportunity to rest, relax and prepare for the rest of the season.