The Los Angeles Dodgers went into Friday night with plans already in place to celebrate Tommy Lasorda’s 90th birthday. A pregame ceremony was held at Dodger Stadium, complete with special guest speakers and the crowd signing happy birthday to the beloved former manager.
There were sights on a bigger picture, however. Specifically, a fifth consecutive National League West title. The Dodgers needed to defeat the San Francisco Giants in their series opener, or have the Miami Marlins hand the Arizona Diamondbacks a loss.
First pitch at Chase Field was set for 6:40 p.m. PT, but it was the contest at Dodger Stadium that moved along at a quicker pace. So as the game progressed and the Dodgers’ 4-1 lead held, anticipation began to build.
After Kenley Jansen struck out the side in the ninth inning, the players formed a mob around the mound to begin their celebration. Once they were gathered around champagne and beer that had been on ice, Jansen addressed the team.
His message was followed by plenty of yelling, Yasiel Puig dancing, and more. Los Angeles now has eight games remaining before preparation can begin for Game 1 of the NL Division Series. They presumably will face the winner of the NL Wild Card Game.
#ThisTeam pic.twitter.com/O1hx4FwA1X
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 23, 2017
.@TommyLasorda. Is. Ready. pic.twitter.com/IbuoeZcW71
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 23, 2017
Step one. #ThisTeam pic.twitter.com/dYESqcV9Ae
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 23, 2017
.@YasielPuig has all the moves. 🕺 pic.twitter.com/Ai9jPXSLWJ
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 23, 2017
During their current stretch of five consecutive NL West titles, this year was only the second time the division was wrapped up at home. Los Angeles has clinched against the Giants in three of the five years.
Last season, the Dodgers celebrated in walk-off fashion thanks to Charlie Culberson’s home run against the Colorado Rockies. Adding more mystique, it came in Vin Scully’s final home game of his career.
