Dodgers Didn’t Have to Sign Raines, After All

A fan wrote (Aug. 1) that “fans who live in L.A. should root for the real home team (Dodgers), not the team they left behind.”

When I moved to L.A. in 1985, I was prepared to accept the Dodgers. The first game, I missed 3 1/2 innings in line at a concession stand. When I tried to complain, I was introduced to a security guard and threatened with ejection. After the final inning, my wife and I were twice told to hurry and leave as we tried to pack our belongings. Some welcome to Dodger Stadium.

Other incidents: I have been told to move on while taking snapshots in a deserted stadium 90 minutes before the game. I’ve been told I can’t bring my own banner, but have been asked to buy those the Dodgers have for sale. The Dodgers can’t even sell score card pencils, but expect you to pay a dollar or more for “souvenir” pens. Moral: Don’t bother coming, just send the money.

The more I learn and experience, the more I dislike the Dodgers and their organization, from the O’Malleys through Campanis and Lasorda to the players. Most ballclubs have a publicity machine, but the Dodgers are a publicity machine with a ballclub.

JOHN P. DAYKIN

Beverly Hills