Lasorda Still as Popular as He Ever Was

Tom Lasorda, former Dodger manager, spent his first Dodger playoff game in 20 years in the box of owner Peter O’Malley.

As usual, several times fans waved to him and cheered when he waved back.

And, as usual, he would not guarantee that he will not attempt to return to managing.

“Right now, I never plan on managing again, I am finished,” Lasorda said. “But I’ve always said, ‘Never say never.’ ”

Except in the case of the Dodgers.

“I guarantee that I will never, ever manage this team again,” he said. “I’ve got a great job now and am very grateful to Peter.”

In one sign that he is ready to wear a uniform again, however, next week he will don No. 2 for the first time since his heart attack.

Instead of flying to Atlanta for the remainder of the playoffs, he will fly to Phoenix to work with Dodger prospects in the Arizona Instructional League.

He also has plans this winter to visit farmhands in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

“It’s still not easy sitting and watching the games; managing is still what I enjoy,” he said. “But I made a decision and I will stick by it.”

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In a classy act by the Dodgers on Wednesday, the ceremonial first pitch was thrown by Ann Meyers-Drysdale, widow of Dodger Hall of Famer Don Drysdale.

A suitable encore is expected today when the first pitch is thrown by Roxy Campanella, widow of Roy Campanella.