It has been a tough start to the new year so far. Dodgers fans have had to morn several legends, which started with the loss of former Dodgers professional pitcher who became a legendary Dodgers manager, global baseball ambassador, and national treasure Tommy Lasorda, who passed away at the beginning of January at the age of 93.

Things didn’t get easier for Dodger fans. Later in the month, they were hit again with the news of Hall of Famer Don Sutton had lost his battle with cancer at the age of 75.

Just as emotions seemed to level out a little, the news of Dodgers superfan and television personality Larry King’s passing came to light on January 23. He was 87.

The Dodgers released their condolences after each loss came to light. Some players, former and current, also expressed their condolences as well. Twitter was flooding with memories, including the famous video clip of Tommy Lasorda’s run-in with the Philly Phanatic.

There is a belief that celebrity deaths come in threes. In this case, that belief, unfortunately, appeared to be accurate within the Dodgers organization. All three men that had passed were elite players, ambassadors for their profession – the very best in their league.

Little did Dodgers fans know, there would be one more loss to grieve; thankfully, though, not a death.

On Wednesday morning, January 27, Dodgers popular sideline reporter and pre and postgame show host Alanna Rizzo shocked the Dodgers fanbase when she announced on Twitter that she was stepping away from SportsNet LA.

Alanna is among the network’s original members since its launch in February 2014. During the COVID-19 pandemic and a 2020 baseball season full of new rules, safety protocols, and stressors. Alanna kept her head up high and embraced the changes while reporting from Dodger Stadium with no access to in-person interviews.

Although Alanna has come into contact with several big named players and celebrities while covering the Dodgers, she is well known for being trusted by the players and those she comes into contact with for interviews or just conversation. Once when Kevin Crust was interviewing her from the Los Angeles Times in 2017, she was asked if anyone made her nervous. Her reply to the question alone puts her respect for the game into perspective very quickly.

“Certain icons of the game, you’re almost afraid to meet them because you hope they’ll live up to the expectations that you have. This organization, in general, you have legends walking down the hall. I think sometimes we take that for granted. To be able to see Tommy Lasorda often, still, at 90 years old. I worked with Vin Scully for three years. Vin Scully knew my name! Don Newcombe is at the park every day. These are Hall of Famers and legends of the game, and I consider them co-workers.

“The last interview I did with Sandy Koufax – I call him, respectfully, Mr. Koufax – he’s like, ‘I’m not doing another interview if you don’t call me Sandy.’ Just the people who come through these doors. We’re very fortunate.”

Many fans shared their memories of when they had the opportunity to meet Alanna. Others tweeted kind words, only wishing her the best in her new journey, whatever that might be. The Dodgers lost two great players and one hell of an ambassador for the game, and a super fan from the Brooklyn days. But Alanna? She was in a league of her own.

Only the best on your new journey Alanna. We will miss you.

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