Spring Training is still a little over a month away, but with the Dodgers’ roster pretty much set, it’s not too early for a couple of outlets to reveal their 2012 Isotopes previews.  Both are definitely worth a read.

First, there’s a comprehensive look at the 2012 ‘Topes by the excellent Dodger Blog Mike Scioscia’s Tragic Illness

Next, Chris Jackson, the ‘Topes’ local beat writer for The Examiner as well as Minor League Baseball, has this look at the 2012 Isotopes.

As Spring Training starts, there will no doubt be more and we’ll have constant roster updates right here on ‘Topes Tattler.

Now that we’re into the new year, now’s also a good time to check in on where some former Isotopes free agents have landed so far this winter.  Lots of familiar names to ‘Topes fans.  The list includes the player (year they played for the ‘Topes) and their new team.

IF- Tony Abreu (2009) – Kansas City Royals
LHP – Alberto Bastardo (2009, 2010, 2011) – Miami Marlins
OF- Brett Carroll (2007, 2008) – Washington Nationals
C – Brad Davis (2007) — San Diego Padres
RHP – Jeff Fulchino (2005, 2006, 2007) — Washington Nationals
IF – Nick Green (2010) — Miami Marlins
OF- Jeremy Hermida (2003, 2007) – San Diego Padres
OF- Jamie Hoffmann (2009, 2010, 2011) – Colorado Rockies (not a free agent- was claimed off waivers)
RHP – Logan Kensing (2006, 2007, 2008) – Pittsburgh Pirates
RHP- Jon Link (2010, 2011) – Baltimore Orioles
IF- Hector Luna (2009) — Philadelphia Phillies
C- Lucas May (2010) – New York Mets
OF- Jai Miller (2008) — Baltimore Orioles
IF- Valentino Pascucci (2007, 2009) – New York Mets
OF- Xavier Paul (2009, 2010) — Washington Nationals
C- Mike Rivera (2010) – Milwaukee Brewers
RHP- Travis Schlichting (2009, 2010, 2011) – Oakland A’s
LHP- Chris Seddon (2008) – Cleveland Indians
IF – Corey Smith (2011) – Chicago White Sox
LHP- Eric Stults  (2009) – Chicago White Sox
LHP- Erick Threets (2009) – Oakland A’s
RHP – Merkin Valdez (2011) — Oakland A’s
IF / OF – Eugenio Velez (2011) – St. Louis Cardinals

Another good sign that it’s the new year is the Isotopes’ Job Fair and Open House get scheduled.  The annual Job Fair, which is for the hiring of game-day staff (no full time positions are available) is scheduled for Saturday, February 11 at 10:00 AM at Isotopes Park.  For more information, click here.

March 11 will be a huge day at the ballpark, as individual game tickets go on sale at 10:00 AM in conjuction with the team’s annual Open House.  Also on tap will be National Anthem auditions, which will start at 10:00 AM in the Club Level lounge area.  You can find more information here.

It won’t be long before Spring, and baseball, are in the air!