Eric Gagne Not Entirely Forgotten

Earlier we linked to a Lion in Oil story about how former Dodgers mentioned in the Mitchell Report were conspicuously absent in a research survey of Dodger fans. But now you can vote for your favorite closer at Dodgers.com, choosing from Jim Brewer, Mike Marshall, Ron Perranoski, Jeff Shaw, Todd Worrell and yes, Eric Gagne:

Eric Gagne began his Dodger career as a starting pitcher with mixed results. He would normally breeze through the batting order the first time around and then the opposing team would tee off on him the second time around. A demotion to the minors in 2001 laid in question what would become of the young right-hander in 2002? With the advice of Hall of Fame pitcher Sandy Koufax, the Dodgers tried Gagne out as a closer and a superstar was born. Gagne would go on to have three of the most dominating seasons a relief pitcher would ever have, saving 52, 55 and 45 games for the Dodger from 2002-04. Gagne would win the 2003 National League Cy Young award with the perfect season of 55 saves in 55 chances, make three straight All-Star appearances and help the Dodgers win the 2004 National League West title. Injuries would limit his appearances in 2005 and 2006. Gagne would leave as a free agent the following year.

I guess a poll at the official website of the Dodgers isn't the first place to look for a balanced history of players like Gagne, but pretending they don't exist is a good start.