The Dodgers had the NL Cy Young winner on the mound and the NL MVP runner-up in the middle of the lineup for Tuesday’s 2-1 win over the Bucs in their home opener. Even with that star power on the field, arguably two of the most popular members of the Dodgers organization were absent from the opening day festivities.
The legendary Vin scully missed the home opener due to a “severe cold” that thankfully doesn’t sound like it will keep him out of the booth for too long. Incredibly, the 2012 season will be Scully’s 63rd season in the booth. The hall of famer has only missed one other opening day and that came all the way back in 1977 when Scully was putting in work as a broadcaster for the Masters Golf Tournament. There’s few things as great as listening to Scully call a baseball game and we only hope he’s back at 100% soon and back in the booth.
Scully wasn’t the only Dodger hero to miss the home opener. Magic Johnson also was not in attendance because he has a play in NYC opening up this week. The play is about the rivalry and friendship he shared with Larry Bird. Given all the upheaval in the Dodgers franchise, the presence of Vin Scully and their new high-profile owner will be welcome stabilizing influences.
(via ESPNLA)
