A flotation device
Just passing along these snapshots of the Dodgers' Rose Bowl float as it coasted down Colorado Blvd. on that chilly Jan. 1 morn, thanks to someone who decided to share their stash (Kevin Keefer) with their Flickr pals.
This shot of the "dugout" shows a variety of emotions: A well-insulated Fernando Valenzuela, an easily identifiable Nomar Garciaparra, a non-No. 6 wearing Steve Garvey (gotta steal that jersey from Joe Torre), a non-plussed Brad Penny and ... who's that dude wearing No. 40-something? Gotta be the new acquisition, Hiroki Kuroda, making good on his three-year, $35.3 million contract.
In both those shots, there's a glimpse of Roger Owens, the soon-to-be 65-year-old famed Peanut Man with his red uniform shirt who's been pitching goobers for the team since back in their Coliseum days. A true Dodger iconic figure.
According to the Dodgers press release, Roger was told he'd be given a seat on the float.
Evidently ... there wasn't any room for one of the franchise's most recognizable employees?
He must have been informed that the best he could do was walk next to it .. and not throw peanuts, just toss 'em in the air to himself.
Happy New Year, Rog. Now start walkin'.