Dodgers legend Tommy Lasorda stopped by the CSU Bakersfield baseball team’s Hot Stove Dinner fundraiser Saturday at the Kern County Fairgrounds and met with team members before the event.

Second baseman David Metzgar said Lasorda’s words inspired him to try and fulfill his Major League dreams, “Especially for me and my size, some people may overlook me, but [his words] really inspired me to keep working hard and maybe it will happen to me.”

Lasorda came at the request of Bakersfield product and former Dodger pitcher George Culver, who introduced him at the sell out event. A silent auction was also held featuring memorabilia signed by MLB legends.

Kelli Forsch