Dodgers Seem to Have a First-Place Ballclub, so What’s the Problem?

I have just returned from vacation and here’s what I know about the Dodgers:

They have five all-stars, more than any other team in the league. Their lineup is anchored by “the next Johnny Bench” and “the next Roberto Clemente.” No less an authority than Tony Gwynn describes it as scary. The pitching staff has sensations from all over the globe. Everyone’s favorite manager is still running the show. And they play in a weak division.

So I guess they must be, what, 10 games in front by now?

RICHARD A. FOND

Los Angeles

*

Bob Nightengale’s article in the July 2 paper begins with crediting Tommy Lasorda’s inspiration for the Dodgers’ victory over the Colorado Rockies the previous night. As Nightengale writes, it was vintage Lasorda.

I find that interesting, because in the July 3 article, after the Dodgers lost to the Rockies, 10-1, all of the blame was directed at Ramon Martinez and his continuing slump, but not one word of Lasorda’s involvement.

Isn’t it funny that Lasorda has everyone convinced that he is responsible for the success of the Dodgers, and is completely divorced from their failings? He is, without a doubt, the best salesman the game has ever known. The sorry part is that he markets and sells Lasorda only.

DINO RUGGIERO

Studio City

*

Today’s players cannot be sold on Lasorda’s ideas of “bleeding Dodger Blue” or “the great Dodger in the sky.” What they need is the no-nonsense approach of first base coach and master batting instructor Reggie Smith. He, not Bill Russell, is the logical successor to Lasorda and the remedy should be now--before it is too late.

JIM WAKEMAN

Los Angeles