The Los Angeles Dodgers and L.A. Lakers delighted their fans and city in 2020 when they each won a championship under difficult circumstances in respective NBA and MLB bubbles. It was reminiscent of 1988, but those teams were able to fully enjoy the spoils of being the victor.
Because of ongoing challenges with the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Dodgers and Lakers — and their fans — were denied an opportunity to celebrate by way of a parade. There were rumblings of holding a joint celebration, but plans never truly gained traction.
Both teams hoped to repeat as champions in 2021, only to battle injuries and fall short in the playoffs. Now that the L.A. Rams won Super Bowl LVI, it sparked talks of holding a championship parade that honored all three teams.
Former Dodgers outfielder and current free agent Joc Pederson has joined those who believe a proper celebration is deserved for all who were involved.
Make it happen!!! https://t.co/IyjYBedOiq
— Joc Pederson (@yungjoc650) February 15, 2022
Parade was one of the coolest moments I’ve experienced in baseball…LA @Dodgers and @Lakers life long fans/players/staff missed out on celebrating a special year of Championships!
— Joc Pederson (@yungjoc650) February 15, 2022
Although relegated to a platoon role, Pederson was instrumental in the Dodgers winning the 2020 World Series. Pederson put a subpar regular season behind him and hit .382/.432/.559 with two home runs and eight RBI in 37 plate appearances over 16 playoff games (10 starts).
Pederson hit one home run each in the National League Championship Series and World Series, and drove in three runs during the six games against the Tampa Bay Rays.
His time with the Dodgers came to end after signing a one-year contract with the Chicago Cubs. Pederson received his 2020 World Series ring during a pregame ceremony upon returning to Dodger Stadium for the first time, but finished the season with the Atlanta Braves.
As a result, Pederson became the ninth player in MLB history to win back-to-back World Series with different teams. His title with Atlanta was capped off by the traditional parade and celebration with fans.
Betts, Turner on board for Dodgers parade
Justin Turner was first to publicly bring up the Dodgers potentially being part of a parade with the Rams, and since then the idea has garnered support from LeBron James.
After James mentioned the Dodgers, Lakers and Rams could all come together for an L.A. celebration, Mookie Betts said it was a parade he agreed should be held.
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