Two From True Blue LA

Manny brings an early Christmas. 'Twas the night before Manny, and all through the ball park, Not a creature was stirring, not even a McCourt; The helmets were hung by the dugout with care, In hopes that St. Dreadlock soon would be there; "The Lonesome Death of Russell Martin's Power": ... a funny thing happened on the way to the Dodger Hall of Fame. Martin simply doesn't hit for power anymore. It was a little troubling last season, when Martin followed up his breakout .469-slugging, 19-homer 2007 with a .396 slugging percentage, but I'll never be disappointed in a catcher with a .385 on-base percentage. Besides, Martin was sure to improve this year because of his improved attitude and maturity. He even started doing yoga. It hasn't helped. In the 126-year history of the Dodgers, there have been 34 different seasons in which a catcher has posted a slugging percentage under .300 (with at least 200 plate appearances). The king of these seasons ...