Merriam-Webster defines a ‘Dirtbag‘ as: “slang: a dirty, unkempt, or contemptible person.“

…but if you know, you know.

Dodger Stadium organist Dieter Ruehle is a Dirtbag.

Again, if you know, you know.

A ‘Dirtbag‘ is also the name given to an athlete, student, or alumnus of California State University Long Beach – aka Cal State Long Beach, aka Long Beach State – or simply “Beach.”

No, Dieter Ruehle did not attend or graduate from Cal State Long Beach, nor is he “a dirty, unkempt, or contemptible person.“ However, it was recently announced that in addition to being the Dodgers and LA Kings current organist, the Van Nuys, CA native and Burbank High School graduate (Go Bulldogs!) will also now be the organist for the Cal State Long Beach baseball team; officially called the ‘49ers‘ but affectionately – and traditionally – known as ‘The Dirtbags.’

This from The562.org:

“[Long Beach State head baseball coach Eric] Valenzuela confirmed that renowned organist Dieter Ruehle would be playing at every Dirtsbags home game this season. Ruehle has over 30 years of experience as the full-time stadium organist for a number of professional teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Dodgers, and Kings.

But wait, there’s more!

As most Dodgers and Kings fans know by now, Ruehle will be the organist for Team USA Hockey at the 2022 Winter Olympics, currently underway in Beijing, China.

And if you are among the 23,000+ who follow Ruehle on Twitter (@DieterRuehle), you have been treated to several photos and videos he has taken from the capital of the People’s Republic of China and posted on the popular social media site, including this brief video on Sunday morning:

Although it is unknown which Dirtbags home games Ruehle will be playing at due to his commitments to the Dodgers and Kings (not to mention that little COVID-19 thing), it is certainly safe to say that they would take precedence over Dirtbags games. But regardless, you’ve got to absolutely love Dieter Ruehle and his commitment to the fans of Los Angeles.

…and Long Beach.

Play Ball!

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