Timm's Two Cents

I've been wondering...

• How will Josh Hamilton's recent hot streak impact the Dodgers?  Quite a lot, actually. Obviously, the more Hamilton hits, the more cash he'll rake in for his next contract. That could be with the Texas Rangers, or...possibly the Los Angeles Dodgers. But the other side of that coin is Andre Ethier. If Hamilton continues to mash this season, the more money Hamilton makes, the more money Ethier can command (assuming he continues to hit like he has thus far). Of course, Ethier can drive up his own market by slugging a bunch of homers, hitting effectively against left-handers, and staying healthy.  But a strong season by Josh Hamilton will likely up the ante for Andre's services.  

• Why did it take so long for the Dodgers to figure out that Aaron Miles was an asset?

• How long before Shawn Tolleson is called up from Albuquerque? As the closer for the AA Lookouts, Tolleson had five saves, posting an ERA of 1.38, and had 19 strikeouts in 13 innings before his promotion to Albuquerque this week.  I'm not saying he needs to get here tomorrow and take over Kenley Jansen's role.  Just wondering if he'll be up before the All-Star break.  Tolleson could be a valuable addition to the bullpen in the second half.  UPDATE: Tolleson pitched one inning Friday night in his AAA debut.  He gave up three runs on three hits and struck out two. Nice way to back up my support, Shawn.

• When does Josh Fields get the chance to play some third base for the Dodgers?  Sure, his home and away splits are a bit ridiculous (he's hitting .404 at home, and .246 on the road).  But you can't tell me that he'd be worse than sticking Juan Uribe out there every day.  And in my view, Uribe and Miles would be a solid tandem as utility guys.  

• How will the Dodgers respond if Matt Kemp begins to slump? Wonder no more. Kemp is hitting only .250 over his last ten games (8 for 32) and has homered only once.  The Dodgers have gone 5-5 over those ten games, despite solid pitching.