The Los Angeles Dodgers saw multiple players leave the organization in free agency after winning the 2020 World Series, with Kiké Hernandez and Joc Pederson the most notable departures as they both sought larger roles.
Hernandez joined the Boston Red Sox on a multi-year contract, and Pederson joined the Chicago Cubs. However, Pederson was traded to the Atlanta Braves in the middle of July, and now he faces the Dodgers in the National League Championship Series.
“Gosh, we’ll see,” answered Dodgers manager Dave Roberts when asked if familiarity will help the team find success against Pederson and his ‘Joctober’ roll.
“I think it’s real. He’s always come up with big hits in October. He’s going to be tough. We’re going to have to find a way to get him out.”
Pederson batted .382/.432/.559 with two doubles and eight RBI in 16 games (10 starts) with the Dodgers last October.
He started just one of the Braves’ games against the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Division Series, and was hitless in that contest. However, Pederson went a combined 3-for-3 with two home runs and four RBI in three pinch-hit appearances prior to starting Game 4 of the NLDS.
Pederson went just 3-for-22 with one double, one home run, three RBI, one stolen base and seven strikeouts over nine games (seven starts) against the Dodgers this season. It marked his first year playing for any other organization since being drafted by L.A. in 2010.
Dodgers ask Pederson about pearl necklace
In addition to Pederson showing off his trademark October power, he’s generated headlines of late by wearing a necklace of real pearls.
“We FaceTimed him the other day to ask him what’s going on with this pearl necklace he’s wearing,” Justin Turner said.
Aside from that, Turner doesn’t expect much awkwardness with now needing to face his former teammate in the postseason.
“We played him, I think twice with the Cubs and a third time when he was with the Braves already, so it will be fun,” Turner said. “It will be fun to go to battle and compete against him.”
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!
