LOS ANGELES, CA — The Dodgers had an excellent season despite all the injuries, especially to their pitching staff, from the starters to the overworked bullpen. But the truth is that their “Achilles Heel,” uncharacteristically, has been their pitching this year. Recently, with the addition of Michael Kopech, who has become their lights-out closer, and the consistency of Alex Vesia and Blake Treinen, they look solid out of the bullpen now.
LA’s Alex Vesia has become a major piece to the Dodgers’ postseason plans in the bullpen – Image Credit: Emma Sharon/Latino Sports
They have had a lineup that organizations can only dream of, and they can score runs. That is another reason on why they finished where they did this year.
This season, one of the standout moments was the signing of 31-year-old free agent Teoscar Hernández, Cotui, Dominican Republic.
Without Teoscar Hernández this season, the Dodgers are not 2024 NL West division champs – Image Credit: Emma Sharon/Latino Sports
Though overshadowed by the ‘Ohtani Thing,’ his performances have been nothing short of exceptional. He’s a fantastic presence on and off the field for the franchise.
With 160 hits, 32 doubles, 33 home runs, 99 RBIs, .272 BA, and .840 OPS to his name, is a good indication of how important he has been to this club. His infectious enthusiasm and big smile have won over fans, and his consistent game-winning plays have made him a joy to watch. And let’s not forget, he’s the only Dodger ever to win the Home Run Derby.
The thrill of victory 🔥 #HRDerby pic.twitter.com/WHFRdozwyA
— MLB (@MLB) July 16, 2024
Undoubtedly, the most significant story of the season has been Shohei Ohtani’s MVP performance. He’s brought much-needed run production to an offense that had to compensate for their pitching woes this season. His value to the Dodgers is undeniable, and he’s yet to throw a pitch.
This has indeed been the year of Ohtani in LA and Baseball. However, it’s also the year that the Dodgers have shifted their focus from the Latino community to the ‘Land Of The Rising Sun.’
The Dodgers have benefitted greatly from the Shohei Ohtani mega-signing but to what expense for their genuine diverse fanbase? – Image Credit: Emma Sharon/Latino Sports
Except for a drone show for ‘Hispanic Heritage Month’ and a ‘Taco Tuesday,’ four days later on September 24, it’s been an ‘all Asian, all the time situation’ at Dodger Stadium for their loyal fan base.
The Japanese media coverage of Ohtani and pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto this year at Dodger Stadium has been overwhelming with outlets literally taking over the press box and camera wells.
As we head into MLB’s Postseason, Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers look to appear in the Fall Classic for the franchise’s fifth time since 1988 (2020, 2018, 2017, 1988) – Image Credit: Emma Sharon/Latino Sports
They have been wonderful and respectful, and having them as fellow journalists has been a pleasure whenever I am afforded a seat in the press box. The bottom line, to say the least, is that it has been an interesting season.
And with that, さようなら, Sayōnara to the 2024 Dodgers’ regular season and on to the playoffs.
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