Dodgers Beat the Streak: Mannywood is back home

Manny Machado is finally returning to Chavez Ravine for the first time since being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Let the fun begin.

The Los Angeles Dodgers landed the most coveted trade target this year, Manny Machado, during the All-Star Break. With an ensuing 10-game road trip, the Dodgers have not welcomed the new superstar back to Los Angeles.

The parallels between this trade and the trade that landed Manny Ramirez are easily drawn. Machado is the last icing on the cake, the three-month rental that is supposed to lead LA to the World Series once again. Ramirez was brought in for the same reason and re-signed with the Dodgers.

While the Dodgers failed in the NLCS twice with Ramirez, he played so well in his half-season in LA that he finished fourth in NL MVP voting. That is special.

Machado has had a decent start to his Dodgers career. In 10 games thus far, Machado is hitting .302 with a .842 OPS, one home run and four RBIs. Machado can definitely contribute more to run producing, however, he is just getting started.

As for our Dodgers Beat the Streak, I was unable to escape the road trip with anything to show. That is what happens when Sean Newcomb tosses eight and two-thirds no-hit innings.

Of course, Sarah managed to select the person that broke up the no-hitter with two strikes and two outs in the ninth inning, Chris Taylor. I swear she has some insider info. She is so much better at this than I am.

Sarah’s pick — Current streak 4: Manny Machado

My pick for today is Manny Machado. Tonight is his first home game and his first look at the fantastic thing known as Los Angeles baseball. It feels like Machado has been a Dodger forever but tonight is only his 11th game in an LA uniform.

The Dodgers are seeing the Brewers for the 4th time in just a little over a week and I think that Machado will bring his .302 avg as a Dodger and help the team out tonight.

Jason’s pick — Current streak 0: Manny Machado

You know what, if you cannot beat them, join them. Sarah has been absolutely kicking my butt when it comes to this series and I have to agree with her logic here; Manny Machado is going to set off some fireworks in home debut at Dodger Stadium.

If he does not get a base hit, Sarah, I am sorry for ruining your four-game hitting streak. My selections are typically jinxed or something, this will be the ultimate telling sign.