As part of MLB’s continued health and safety protocols due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the league reportedly has required all non-playing personnel to be vaccinated if they wish to be on the field and around players during the postseason.
Unvaccinated coaches and staff members who want to remain with the team were instructed to receive at least their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by the start of the postseason and have their second shot scheduled.
When asked if he thought the new requirements would be a problem for the Dodgers, manager Dave Roberts said, “I don’t.”
Roberts added: “I know it’s not a problem for me personally. I’m vaxxed. We did get the memo and we’re going to have some discussions. I don’t want to speak specifically to any coaches right now, but whatever is asked of us, we’ll adhere to and take care of.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers were one of the first teams toreach the 85% vaccination rate among their Tier 1 individuals (players, coaches, and those with direct access to them), which loosened restrictions for the team back in May.
MLB incentivized teams to become fully vaccinated by offering them a chance to gather in hotel rooms without wearing masks, carpool together, eat at restaurants, meet outdoors with anyone while on the road and stay at personal residences when traveling, among other possibilities.
The Dodgers didn’t experience any interruptions or changes with the Wild Card Game, and now continue in October with a highly-anticipated matchup against the San Francisco Giants in the National League Division Series.
Dodgers keeping safety in mind
The team has been encouraging fans to get vaccinated by hosting a clinic on the reserve level concourse and giving fans tickets to a future home game.
Fans are also required to wear their mask at Dodger Stadium at all times, except when they are actively eating or drinking in accordance with the L.A. County Department of Public Health’s (LACDPH).
Starting on Oct. 7, all fans in attendance ages 12 and older will be required to present proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event to enter the stadium.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and more!
