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Dodgers clubhouse reacts to news of bankruptcy filing

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Davey Lopes shook his head and laughed.

The first base coach was part of the Dodgers’ famous infield quartet of the 1970s and ‘80s.

Asked if he ever imagined the Dodgers would file for bankruptcy protection, Lopes replied, “I’m seeing a lot of things I never thought I’d see, let’s put it that way. It’s an unfortunate situation.”

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I told Lopes that as employees of companies in bankruptcy cases, he and I share a special kinship.

“That’s not a kinship I want to be a part of,” he said.

Lopes said he found it curious that owner Frank McCourt hasn’t spoken to the players about recent events.

“No one’s explained anything to us, which I find a little ironic, for the lack of a better word,” he said. “Major League Baseball came down and did their little five-minute introduction when they were taking over operations, but beyond that, no one’s talked to them at all. I don’t know if it would help but it would get respect. I find it ironic that Mr. McCourt has not come down to address the players at all. I just don’t understand that. Obviously, he has his reasons. I just don’t understand that.”

Clayton Kershaw said he didn’t mind that McCourt or anyone else hasn’t spoken to the team. But he made it clear that he wanted the Dodgers’ ownership situation to be settled.

“I just want to hear that it’s over, that we have a solution, whatever that may be,” he said.

Of the Dodgers’ decision to file for bankruptcy, Kershaw said, “All it sounds like it’s just delaying the process a little more.”

Andre Ethier and Casey Blake had muted reactions to the latest news.

“I guess you become numb,” Ethier said.

Manager Don Mattingly continued to insist that the Dodgers’ on-field performance was unaffected by the off-the-field turmoil.

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“I honestly believe that,” Mattingly said. “To really say that that’s changed us not getting a hit with runners in scoring position or making a pitch with a guy in scoring position, I think it’s not true.”

But haven’t McCourt’s problems restricted the Dodgers’ ability to obtain someone who can get a hit with someone in scoring position?

“That’s here nor there for us,” Mattingly said. RELATED:

Bankruptcy Q&A: Dodgers closer to resolution

Bill Plaschke: McCourt has nothing, Dodgers have it all

Dodgers file for bankruptcy -- and arrange for $150-million loan

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-- Dylan Hernandez in Minneapolis

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