The inaugural Los Angeles Dodgers Zoom party on Monday welcomed 11,000 fans to the virtual chat that featured current and former players, broadcasters and celebrities over the hour-long event.
“Baseball has always brought us together – especially during challenging times – and these shared digital experiences are invaluable in keeping our Dodger Family connected,” Dodgers executive vice president and chief marketing officer Lon Rosen said.
“One of the biggest things our players miss is the daily interactions they have with fans during the course of the season, and they value these opportunities to reconnect. We can’t wait to see everyone at Dodger Stadium again, but until it’s safe to do so, we’re excited to bring together our amazing fans, players and award-winning entertainers to celebrate our shared love of Dodger baseball.”
With Alanna Rizzo and Joe Davis serving as de facto hosts, players shared stories, discussed how they have kept busy while quarantining, and in Joe Kelly’s case, tinkered with the background features available on Zoom.
The participants sung “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” with organist Dieter Ruehle providing the ballad. Viewers were also treated to short rendition of Brad Paisley’s new single, “No I in Beer.”
Perhaps most exciting, however, was retired broadcaster Vin Scully closing the chat with a message in which he assured to be in good health as he continues to recover from a fall, and thanked fans and healthcare workers for their support.
“Hi everybody and a very pleasant good evening to you, wherever you may be,” Scully began. “I know where I am now — after five days in the hospital, and I’m so grateful to be home.”
He also thanked fans for their positive messages and wishes, again referred to his spill as a head-first accident, and joked he was “called out.”
“So, with that said, thanks again,” Scully continued. “I’m feeling better. Thanks for your good wishes, and remember sooner or later, you’re going to hear it: It will be ‘Time for Dodger Baseball.’”
The Dodgers announced plans for a second Zoom party to be held on Monday, May 4, at 6:00 p.m. PT. Participants and registration information will be announced at a later date.
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