The Los Angeles Dodgers broke the National League record for most home runs in a calendar month, slugging 57 in August to overtake the 2019 Atlanta Braves who hit 56 in June of last season.
The Dodgers received contributions throughout their lineup, led by 10 home runs each from Mookie Betts (10) and Cody Bellinger. They were supported by Max Muncy (6 home runs), Seager (6), Joc Pederson (5), AJ Pollock (5), Will Smith (3), Edwin Rios (2), Justin Turner (2), Chris Taylor (2), Matt Beaty (2), Kiké Hernandez (2), Keibert Ruiz (1) and Austin Barnes (1).
While the team showed an impressive power display, Betts wasn’t in the least impressed by their accomplishment. “I don’t think it means anything,” he said of breaking the NL record.
“It’s a pretty cool stat to accomplish, but I think the No. 1 thing is the World Series, so we have to continue to work for that.”
Winning a World Series — and multiple championships — has been a common theme from the 2018 American League MVP. Particularly since signing a record-setting 12-year contract extension on the eve of Opening Day.
“I’m here to bring some rings back to L.A. That’s all I’m focused on,” he said while sitting next to Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman during a press conference to discuss the signing.
Betts also mentioned the World Series after becoming just the third player in MLB history with six career three-home run games.
“It’s obviously a great feeling to know you can go up and just hit, not worry about the rest of it. These times don’t happen very often, so you just enjoy it while it’s here,” Betts said. “It’s a stat but it’s not as important as the rings,” he said.
Betts acknowledges value with series wins
While the 27-year-old has downplayed personal and regular season accolades, Betts joined Dodgers manager Dave Roberts in touting the value of the team not yet losing a series in 2020.
“It’s huge. Every series is important. It shows what kind of team we have. We can make it up in all facets of the game. That’s what a complete team does. We’ve been doing pretty well,” he said.
“Just trying to clean up all the little mistakes we make. I think we need to keep rolling and continue to put the pressure on other teams throughout the whole season. Just try to keep that momentum in the playoffs.”
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