While the Dodgers have remained mostly quiet on the free-agent front this off-season, the marketing division has been hard at work producing the 2014 season's promotional schedule.It is chock full of some fun items, and some that just seem odd. Here's the rundown:
Let's start off with the crown jewel of giveaways--the bobblehead. The Dodgers have handed out 10 bobbles in each of the last two seasons, and have even had a ticket package surrounding them. These are always the best attended giveaway nights.
In 2014 there will be a smattering of old and new Dodger players. Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw will be the first to receive a ceramic replica--the second of his career--followed by rookie sensations Yasiel Puig and Hyun-Jin Ryu. The second half of the Dodgers twin-aces, Zack Greinke, rounds out the batch of current players.
Former Dodger bobbleheads include: Tommy Lasorda, a Pee Wee Reese/Roy Campanella duo, and a Dusty Baker, Ron Cey, Steve Garvey, Reggie Smith combo commemorating their same-year, 30-HR season.
One thing they brought back this year is the fan-vote bobble head, which will be determined in the middle of the season by, I assume, Twitter polling. I heard some grumblings for a Nancy Bea-Hefley bobble. I would completely support that.
Magic Johnson is getting his second straight mini-me, because the owner of a baseball team apparently deserves the yearly honor. In fact, Johnson is joined by, the one and only, Hello Kitty as the only two repeat bobbles from the 2013 season.
One of the oddest bobbleheads in Dodger history is the Babe Ruth Bobblehead being passed out. Obviously The Bambino is a storied player that transcends the sport, but his only time spent with the Dodgers was one season as the third base coach. Seems odd, but I'll go with it.
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The Dodgers are also bringing back the entertainment package for weekend homestands, with fireworks every Friday, Viva Los Dogers and Kids Run the Bases every Sunday.
Other highlights from the promotional giveaways include: Zip-Up sweatshirt, Fleece Blanket, Pennant, Father's Day Sports Bag, Autograph Baseball, Don Newcombe Replica Brooklyn Jersey, and a Vin Scully 65th Anniversary Commemorative Item.
Of course you cannot forget the straight-up weird handouts like: welcome mat, inflatable chair, Memorial Day BBQ apron, portable speaker, Hello Kitty item, headphones and a sleeved blanket.
Overall it looks like the Dodgers are prepared to hand out some great items next season. So if going out for a game is not enough incentive for you, go grab that welcome mat your apartment needs oh so badly. And don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for that Bobblehead Ticket Package!
