The Los Angeles Dodgers blew out the Arizona Diamondbacks, 9-1, to clinch a series victory with what turned out to be a special night for Chris Taylor, who helped carry the offense to the big win.
The Dodgers were hosting a bobblehead night for Taylor, which depicts him making his heroic game-saving catch during the 2018 National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Although Taylor may have felt added pressure to contribute, he just tried to take it like any other game.
“I wouldn’t say I was more nervous,” Taylor noted. “I think it kind of just messes with your routine a little bit. You’re getting ready for the game but then have to catch the first pitch, you go out and take pictures and do all that. So from that aspect it’s a little different. But once the game starts, it was normal.”
Taylor ended up reaching base in all his plate appearances, going 3-for-3 with a walk, two doubles, one RBI and one run scored while he had family and friends in the stands to cheer him on. His father, Chris Taylor Sr., was chosen to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
“Obviously it always feels good to have a good game and contribute,” Taylor said. “It feels a little sweeter when your family and friends are here to support you. My parents are here from Virginia, my wife was here, in-laws, and had some friends here as well. To be to show out for them feels a little bit better.
In addition, it was also Taylor’s birthday as he turned 33-years old. To help celebrate, fans sang happy birthday to him from the pavilion.
“Probably the most I’ve ever heard,” Taylor said. “It’s cool. They were really into it tonight and it feels good to have their support. I’m just glad I was able to have a good game for them.”
Like the rest of the Dodgers’ offense in August, Taylor has been hitting the ball well recently. In his last 15 games, the utility man is batting .310/.408/.452. Overall, he’s hitting .228 with 13 home runs, 40 RBI and a .744 on-base plus slugging.
Remaining Dodgers bobbleheads after Chris Taylor giveaway
The Dodgers have five more bobblehead giveaways scheduled for the 2023 season, including one the final day of August which is a duo of James Outman and Miguel Vargas.
Among the more unique Dodgers bobbleheads that still lie ahead are of Julio Urías in a Team Mexico uniform from the 2023 World Baseball Classic, and Joe Kelly dressed in a Mariachi charro jacket.
In addition, September 2 is set to be an Austin Barnes bobblehead giveaway, and September 13 will feature one of manager Dave Roberts sliding to steal a base from his playing days.
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