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The former Dodger Nomar Garciaparra has been hired as a TV and radio commentator by the Dodgers, according to Times blogger Steve Dilbeck, citing "a person familiar with the situation who spoke on the condition of anonymity." Garcia has been an ESPN analyst for four seasons. He played for the Dodgers in 2006-2008 after his run as the star shortstop for the Boston Red Sox. Dilbeck says that Garciaparra's role is still being defined but that he is expected to do pre- and post-game commentary. The Dodgers are also "pursuing ex-Dodger Orel Hershiser to be an announcer and the future broadcasting face of the team," according to USA Today. The Dodgers are looking to start their own regional sports network, SportsNet LA. I had missed that the team let broadcasters Eric Collins and Steve Lyons go after this past season.
Garciaparra, who is 40, was born in Whittier and went to St. John Bosco High School in Bellflower. He is married to former U.S. soccer star Mia Hamm.
The Dodgers, meanwhile, cut their ties with relief pitcher Ronald Belisario and are reportedly close to signing a deal to bring back Brian Wilson.
