Finding reasons to appreciate the Dodgers 2011 season

They’re having fan appreciation day for the Dodgers on Sunday, which is curious for a couple of reasons. They still have three more games to play here and, of course, what exactly is there to appreciate in the worst season in organizational history?

That’s why we’re here to help:

• No traffic problems getting to the game.
  
  
• Matt Kemp played like the Matt Kemp everyone always thought was there, and not like the one who was here last season.
  
  
• Vin Scully remained perfect, even when he wasn't. And he’s coming back.
  
  
• Don Mattingly earned his stripes.
  
  
• Steve Soboroff came and then went.
  
  
• The suspense that is Eugenio Velez.
  
  
• Buy a nose-bleed seat, walk down to the better seat of your choice.
  
  
• Clayton Kershaw arrived as an ace.
  
  
• Tim Federowicz shaved his mustache.
  
  
• Young arms boded well for future.
  
  
• No one uncovered another Vladimir Shpunt, as if that’s possible.
  
  
• Josh Rawitch is leaving (kidding).
  
  
• Kenley Jansen was sick.
  
  
• Tickets available on-line for $1.85.
  
  
• Frank McCourt disappeared from his look-at-me seat.
  
  
• McCourt sold one of his mansions. Hurry, only seven left!
  
  
• Teammates nicknamed heavily tatted Justin Sellers "Cell Block."
  
  
• Dodger Dogs. Real, grilled Dodger Dogs.
  
  
• No traffic problems leaving the game.

-- Steve Dilbeck

Photo: Dodgers center fielder Matt Kemp gets set in the batter's box. Credit: Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times