Thanks for taking the time to chat with us.
Please tell us more about yourself.
Most of what I would have to tell is widely available on the internet. In my own view, I see myself as a very fortunate person who had the chance to grow up in a small town in Ohio with great parents and a passion for sports. I knew early on that I wanted to be involved with sports and that led to journalism and writing and ultimately to a position with the Dodgers.
The story of you becoming working with the Dodgers is an interesting one. Would you share it with us?
I was covering the team in 1969 for the Long Beach (CA) newspaper and had a chance to join the club as the publicity director. This led to a series of changes; from my initial position to VP of public relations and promotions; to executive vice-president; and ultimately to executive vp and general manager.
What was the most satisfying part of your time with the Dodgers?
It may be hard to believe but every day I was with the Dodgers was enjoyable and satisfying. I loved every minute of every day. I had the chance to work with great people who composed a great organization. And to be involved with the Dodgers where the results of every day during the season (and even the off-season for much of the year) are closely observed and judged makes the challenge as worthwhile and as exciting as one could hope for.
You were an important part of the “Think Blue” campaign. How did that come about?
The “Dodger Blue” theme (which ultimately carried over to the summary of “Think Blue”) came about when I was in charge of marketing and I wanted to create a feeling that had a collegiate feel to it. I wanted to establish a rallying theme and I felt “Dodger Blue” could carry out this theme. It worked. And “Dodger Blue” will survive long after the origin of it has faded away.
Growing up did you play baseball? And who did you follow?
I love to play baseball and basketball as a youngster. It was a big part of my life while growing up in Jamestown, Ohio. My dream was to be a starting player for the basketball and baseball teams. Living in Ohio, I became a fan of the Cincinnati Reds and saw my first Major League game at Crosley Field. It was magic. I’ve never forgotten what it felt like to be in a big league ball park. Absolute magic.
When I think of Spring training and the Dodgers, I think of Dodgertown in Vero Beach, Florida. How do you feel about the Dodgers being in Arizona? And what are your memories of Dodgertown?
My memories of Dodgertown are ever-lasting. It is part of my heart; part of my soul. I spent nearly 30 Springs of my life at Dodgertown and it was an incredible experience. The feel of Dodgertown, the history, the chance to be involved in all of that was something I appreciated and loved at the time and the passing of time hasn’t diminished those feelings one single iota.
Who was the best player you watch play?
Too many to mention. A player who made a great impression was Stan Musial. My brother followed the Cardinals and when our family went to Crosley Field it was usually to see the Cardinals play the Reds. The Cardinals had many great players but Musial was memorable.
One of our writers Kelly, is a huge Dodger fan. Kelly would like to know what it was like working for the O’Malleys?
I had the honor of working with both Walter and Peter O’Malley. Both were great executives and the family was and is wonderful. Peter’s sister Terry is one of the finest people I have ever known and in many ways she was the heart and soul of the organization. There aren’t enough good things that can be said about the way the O’Malley family ran the franchise. They were the very best and I hope and feel history will record this properly.
I’m going to name a few Dodgers or former Dodgers. Please describe them for us.
1. Tommy Lasorda
Loves the Dodgers; loves baseball; loves his family and friends.His place in baseball is where it should be as a member of the Hall of Fame.
2. Fernando Valenzuela
A great competitor. He had a dream to pitch in the big leagues and when his chance came he was ready. A gifted athlete and a true warrior on the mound.
3. Steve Garvey
He never, ever gave less than his best. Great with the fans and great for an organization.
4. Steve Howe
A gifted athlete who in so many ways was a tragic figure. He was wired differently as an athlete, making him a great pitcher and at the same time vulnerable to drugs. His talent was incredible; his vulnerability was deep and sad.
5. Matt Kemp
I only know Matt from a distance but he is a great talent and I love the way he plays the game and takes responsibility. He wants to win and doesn’t make excuses. He could play for my team any day.
6. Davey Lopes
A key part of the Dodgers as a player. Combined speed, power and determination. Wanted to beat you every single day and had leadership qualities. The Dodgers were wise to bring him back as a coach so the young players could get an understanding of his make-up and desire. I only wish the young Dodgers could have seen Davey play when he was in his prime. They would have been impressed. And Matt Kemp would have been Davey’s closest friend if the two played together.
What are you doing these days?
Staying very busy doing many things I enjoy. Involved as a member of the Rose Bowl Operating Company; the First Tee program of Pasadena; the Los Angeles Sports Council and roles with both USC and Long Beach State related to sports management programs. I’m a partner in AriBall and my partner Ari Kaplan has developed the best analytical programs in all of baseball. And I’m with a group that is working with two universities in Southern California that have hopes and desires to build new basketball/entertainment venues. With all of that, I do try to allow some time for golf and fly fishing and, of course, and most important, my family.
What advice would you give younger players?
Play hard. Enjoy every moment you are in uniform. The time will go by faster than you possibly could have imagined.
Mr. Claire, once again, thanks for taking the time for us.