When the Los Angeles Dodgers were on the verge of defeating the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 6 of the World Series, it was Julio Urias who had the honor of recording the final outs.
The left-hander was in the midst of a magnificent postseason, having excelled as both a starter and reliever. That dominance continued in the clinching contest, as he tossed 2.1 perfect innings to secure the organization’s first title since 1988.
Urias struck out his final two batters in the ninth inning, which included Willy Adames looking to seal the deal. It was a sight that Dodgers fans will never forget after enduring many disappointing postseason exits in recent years.
It’s also one that Urias’ father used to permanently carry the moment with him in the form of a tattoo on his left arm. Artist Andres Ortega Rojas shared the work on Instagram:
The tattoo depicts Urias celebrating on the mound with the World Series trophy around him. He was quite emotional and later explained why it meant so much to be able to close out the World Series for the Dodgers.
After dominating as a reliever on baseball’s biggest stage, Urias is expected to return to the starting rotation for the start of the 2021 season.
Urias impressing early in Spring Training
Full-squad workouts are underway for the Dodgers in Spring Training, with position players reporting to Camelback Ranch at the start of the week.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts specifically mentioned Urias as one of the standouts thus far. “I’ll say this is as good physically as he’s looked on Day 1 of Spring Training,” Roberts said. “Very proud of what he did this offseason.”
In addition to Urias, Victor Gonzalez has looked good on the mound as well. The 25-year-old is looking to build off an impressive rookie campaign in which he posted a 1.33 ERA over 15 appearances.
“They both came into camp in great shape, very determined, and their bullpens reflected that,” Roberts said of Urias and Gonzalez. “They were both very professional and really good. They’re right on track to help us again. Couldn’t be more pleased.”
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