The Los Angeles Dodgers began a three-game series against the Miami Marlins on Tuesday, which marked Miguel Rojas’ first time back at loanDepot park since the offseason trade.
The veteran infielder spent the previous eight seasons in South Florida, where he became a fan favorite and leader in the Marlins clubhouse while making his presence felt on the field as an everyday player.
“It’s going to be an emotional series,” Rojas said ahead of Tuesday’s opener. “I’m going to have a lot of people that I know there. I’m looking forward to that series and playing in Miami again.”
The Marlins honored Rojas with a tribute video and by playing Bad Bunny’s “25/8,” which the 34-year-old used as his walk-up song during his time in Miami, via Daniel Álvarez-Montes of El Extrabase:
Los @Marlins, con un gran detalle, le hacen un pequeño homenaje a Miguel Rojas con un video y la canción 25/8 de Bad Bunny, que por varios años ha sido su “Walk-Up Song”. pic.twitter.com/vwr47deCt7
— Daniel Álvarez-Montes (@DanielAlvarezEE) September 5, 2023
Unfortunately for Rojas, it was one of the few highlights in a 6-3 loss. He went 1-for-4 to extend a hitting streak to four games.
Rojas hit a respectable .265/.318/.366 with 136 doubles, 38 home runs and 260 RBI in 870 games with the Marlins, but was more known for his elite defense at shortstop.
The Rojas trade marked a reunion as he began with career with the Dodgers organization in 2014. After getting off to a slow start this season, Rojas bounced back with his best offensive performance in August.
He posted a .713 on-base plus slugging percentage during the month, which Rojas attributed to going back to the same approach he had with the Marlins. “I feel August was a pretty good month for me,” Rojas said.
“Started September the right way, staying on the ball, not pulling off, not trying to hit a home run. If it goes, it goes. I’m best when I hit the ball to the pull side, but when I’m not trying to. Good signs these last couple games. Hopefully I can continue to do that.”
Miguel Rojas found success with Kiké Hernández cleats
Rojas has had a few big games while wearing the custom cleats that Adidas made for Kiké Hernández, and the two now sport matching spikes when they play the infield together.
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