PHOENIX -- There was a noticeable buzz in the Dodgers' clubhouse Wednesday morning. The previous night, traveling secretary Scott Akasaki had sent the players a text message informing them that a group led by Magic Johnson had agreed to buy the team.
"I think that's tight, man," Matt Kemp said. "For Magic to be one of our owners. He knows what the Dodgers mean to L.A. Of course, Magic is real important to L.A. and the fans love him, so to get him to be a part of the Dodgers organization is a very good thing for us, and I think this is a pretty good day for the Dodgers."
Clayton Kershaw, the Dodgers' scheduled opening-day starter and union representative, said he was glad the team's ownership problems now appear to be something of the past.
"I didn't expect to hear for a couple days, so I was surprised to hear so soon," Kershaw said. "But I'm glad it's over. I’m glad we have an owner now."
Kershaw asserted that the change in ownership shouldn’t affect the team’s performance.
"The only difference is now we don’t have to answer the same question over and over," he said.
Andre Ethier said he envisioned the Dodgers returning their former prominence.
