The Los Angeles Dodgers are World Series champions for the first time since 1988 after defeating the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 6.
It marked the end of a drought that spanned more than three decades and recent postseason frustration. Prior to the 2020 campaign, the club had won seven consecutive National League West titles and two pennants with nothing to show for it.
To finally get over the hump this year, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman set his sights on adding another frontline-caliber player to the roster.
That player was Mookie Betts, who proved to be the missing piece of the puzzle. The 28-year-old put up MVP-caliber numbers during the regular season and went on to have multiple big moments in the playoffs as well.
“It just means everything. I was traded for to help get us over the hump,” Betts said of winning a title in his first season with the Dodgers. “I used that as my fuel. Since Day 1 that’s obviously been the goal, so I’m just happy to be a part of it.”
The Dodgers entered the year as heavy favorites to win the World Series and lived up to those expectations, posting an MLB-best 43-17 record in the regular season.
L.A. then swept the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres in the first two rounds of the players, battled back from a 3-1 deficit to the Atlanta Braves and finished the job against the Tampa Bay Rays.
“I think we worked so hard from Spring Training to now,” Betts said. “We prepared for all these situations that came, we executed when it was time to execute.
“When our backs were against the wall, we came back. We overcame adversity. Everything is special about this group of guys. We love each other, we played for each other. That’s how great teams are made.”
Betts compares 2018, 2020 World Series titles
Prior to being acquired by the Dodgers, Betts had already won a World Series title with the Red Sox in 2018. He used that experience to help his new teammates get past the finish line.
“The first time is always different. Obviously the first time I didn’t necessarily know what to expect,” Betts said.
“This time I knew what to expect, but my goals, my motives were a little different. I was traded for this reason. I’m proud of myself, proud of the guys for accomplishing it.”
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our shows, and more!
