Just over one month ago the Dodgers made a shocking early exit from the playoffs after a 7-3 loss to the eventual World Series champion Washington Nationals. While sadness, anger, and just about every emotion in between afflicted Dodger fans, at least one person may have seen the silver lining in the early exodus.
In July, the Dodgers announced a $100 million off-season renovation plan for Dodger Stadium. Moreover, Senior Vice President of Planning and Development Janet Marie Smith likely let out a small sigh of relief after the club played its last game on October 9, which provided about three additional weeks to complete the heavy undertaking.
While it may not be much, I took a moment to see how far the demolition phase has advanced in 32 days (give or take) while at the stadium on Monday.
A quick look at the pavilion demolition underway at Dodger Stadium. pic.twitter.com/JRrgkhRDDX
— Clint Pasillas (FRG) (@realFRG) November 12, 2019
If you missed our earlier reaction to the renovation plans, it was covered in this video.
Of course, these stadium upgrades are in preparation for the 2020 MLB All-Star game, which will be hosted in Los Angeles for the first time since 1981.
Dodger Stadium last underwent a facelift in 2014, which featured new HD video boards, a major clubhouse overhaul, and an upgraded sound system, among many other improvements. Janet Marie Smith — who will be inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame next year — oversaw that renovation as well.
Despite some recent community pushback, things seem to be coming along (or coming apart) at Dodger Stadium on schedule.
