Doc and AF Media Zoom Conference Call

Media Questions for AF and Doc – The first several minutes were spent with respect to COVID-19.  The Dodgers are still trying to understand all of the protocols.  It is a brand new scenario, and they are all learning.

A question with respect to how many Dodgers and staff have tested positive for COVID-19.  AF indicated that there have been some, but none were considered serious, and that they will not comment on individuals.  If the individual wants to comment, that is there choice, but as an organization they are not going to break confidence.  IMO, this is absolutely the correct response.

A question as to what thoughts have been given to the use of ball boys.  Thus far, there have been no discussions.  Doc joked that it may be him, but then indicated that perhaps two of the clubhouse guys will be doing double duty.  I got the impression that the ball boy was not a major concern right now, but it will need to be addressed.

Doc was asked how he felt about the new extra inning rule.  Has he heard from MiLB management how it has worked?  Doc said that he has heard positive reviews of the rule, and he is agreeable for the rule in 2020.  It is his view that it will save on pitcher arms and the number of pitches/innings it will save.

There was a follow up question on Doc’s Wednesday comments that it will be DH by committee.  Per Doc, the team is so deep that they can go in any number of directions and use of players depending on the circumstances (pitchers faced).  They like the position they are in when it comes to DH.

When will the team practices begin?  The first formal date for practice to begin is July 3.  But there are still many unanswered questions as to the testing protocols.  How staggered will the testing be?  Once the test shows negative, the player will be released to practice, but the question as to how many can practice at any point in time is still unknown.

AF commented that there is so much still to learn.  He added that there will undoubtedly be a number of positive tests and they are going to need to learn how to contain it.  They just do not know enough right now, and they recognize that they are going to need to get smart and fast.

Doc was asked how he believes the players will “self-police”.  Doc said that the team will continue to be educated, and believes that the end goal will dictate their actions away from the field.

AF and Doc were asked about potential opt-outs.  AF indicated that there have been a number of players (no indication how many) who have shown concern.  AF wants to have those discussions with the players.  He wants to understand what they are feeling and learn how best to respond.  AF did indicate that this is going to be a player personal decision.  I got the impression that he is not going to pressure players into playing.  He will work to get the player fully educated, but the decision will be with the player and his family.

Doc added that the team is working more with video conferences, and computer use.  The clubhouse will be limited to the number of people and the time spent in the clubhouse.  They are working on anything they can to quell the concerns of the players. He reiterated what AF previously stated, and that they will be supportive of the player.

It was reported that with their exceptional depth, the Dodgers are seemingly built for a 162 game season.  Doc was asked how he believes the team will respond in a 60 game dash.  Doc responded that he believes that their depth will help just as much in a sprint.  They can take advantage of the team/pitcher they are facing and can rest players at opportune times.  AF agreed.  He added that over the last couple of years, the culture of the team has changed.  They do not look at 162 games or 60 games. They are focused on winning each game one at a time, winning every AB.

AF was asked about the Taxi squad.  He indicated they have not come up with any conclusions, but that it is going to change depending on the number of games and the opponent.  But once the three member taxi is identified for that road trip, there can be no changes to the squad.  The biggest concern is that logistically they cannot properly transport the players because they cannot travel commercially.

AF was asked about the alternate site.  They are finalizing their plans, but presently they are planning on using USC until the students come back, and then they plan on moving the alternate site to Rancho Cucamonga.

They are still looking at their options for players outside of their 60 man pool.  They will continue to have those discussions.

Both AF and Doc were asked about their emotions over the last three weeks with the on again and off again.  Both indicated that it was a roller coaster.  AF emphasized they had no control.  Doc wanted to praise the trainers because they were out front in educating the players as to the best way to proceed.  Doc continued by indicating that he needed to tread lightly and be nimble.  Need to be cognizant of the players, but he was excited.

Has the projected 26 man roster changed much from the shutdown?  AF said that the only question at the time was whether Joc would be healthy enough to make opening day.  Joc is now fully healed and that is no longer a concern.  However it is tough to compare, because the 26 man is now a 30 man.  They are still looking at all options.  No decisions are imminent.

Question was asked about whether everyone in the dugout needed to wear masks.  AF was not certain.  He believed that all non-players needed to, but was uncertain about players.  They are still learning.

AF was asked what factors will go into the decision making process for the 60 man pool.  ML ready or developmental?  AF indicated that it will be a balance.  They do not believe they will need many more ML ready after their 40 man, so they expect to include players they want to monitor their continued development.  Michael Grove perhaps?? Michael Busch?? Kody Hoese??  They will also include players on the cusp of the 40-man who could perhaps play ML baseball if needed. AF does not expect to fill the 60 man pool by Sunday. It will come together over time.

How are they going to police no spitting?  AF had no idea.

There is no decision on the All Star Game and when LA will get another opportunity to host.

When asked what his thoughts were about managing knowing that he is a cancer survivor that he may be more at risk.  His doctors advised that he is no more at risk than any other player/coach solely because of his cancer.  He did have a very short pause for concern, but it was quickly answered.  He has no trepidation.

They were asked how they felt about facing the Astros.  Doc smiled but gave no answer, while AF paused and then said it was time to look forward.  No looking back at 2017.  Nothing is going to change. I got the impression that those games will rise to another level of competition regardless as to what was said (or not said) today.

They have not made any final decisions as to how to proceed during ST 2.0.  They are still trying to understand the protocols on staggering, but he does anticipate a lot of on field BP and a lot of intrasquad games.

Healthwise, the team is going into ST 2.0 in good shape.  There are no known concerns, but they will not have sufficient knowledge until they get on the field.  When asked specifically about Jimmy Nelson, AF indicated that he was throwing bullpens but will know more when they see him next week.

The two kept most things close to the vest. It is probably just as likely that they are venturing into uncharted territory than intentionally not being as transparent as fans may want. I believe that it is far more the former than the latter. But it sure seems that both are very much looking forward to seeing what this team can do on the field.