In 2003, Dodger fans were trained not to leave the game before the top of the ninth, because Eric Gagne might pitch.

In 2004, Dodger fans were trained not to leave the game before the bottom of the ninth, because the team might come back to win.

Saturday and Sunday, Dodger fans were trained not to leave the game even after it was over, because there might be a classy display of fan appreciation and team sportsmanship.

I've learned my lesson. Saturday, we stayed to cheer the Dodgers and Jose Lima a little after the game. Each minute we stayed perhaps cost us 10 minutes in traffic on the way home, but it was worth it.

Sunday, though we weren't leaving early, we walked from our seats to be near the exit so that if the final out came, we could race with the boy in his car seat to our car and get out of the parking lot as quickly as possible.

As a result, we missed the postgame handshakes that took place between the Dodgers and Cardinals, and the gratitude the Dodgers showed their fans. And I'm sorry to have missed that - but how glad I am to hear about it.

I don't know about you - I'm a sentimental guy - but when I read a quote like this in the paper ...

"A class act on the part of the Dodgers," pitching coach Dave Duncan said. "Tracy led the way and his players saw him come out to congratulate Tony. Whatever feeling they had, they came out. It was a touch of class."

... for an instant, it threatens to open up a tear duct.

* * *

A word to you Dodger Thoughts commenters:

Yeah, I was a little nervous giving you an open forum back in February. Would it quickly degenerate into talk-radio nonsense? Would it dilute the site?

Far from it.

First of all, you commenters are great because given the slightest opening, no matter how tangential, you offer all these compliments. Really - you're just doing a fabulous job. I now consider this a vital element of the site.

Beyond that, the discussion of all things Dodger has been as mature and intelligent as I've ever seen. Doesn't matter that we don't always agree - how could we? The point is, we have real conversations. People feel welcome. Misunderstandings are resolved. Friendships are made.

It's our own little slice of the postgame handshake, and I'm proud of it. And instead of praising me, you should praise yourselves.