Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES — Before Thursday’s opening game of the Dodgers/Cubs series, there was some business that needed attending to. Joc Pederson, a Dodger his entire career until free agency called in this past off-season, was presented his ring as a member of the 2020 World Series champion Dodgers.
In a warm ceremony at home plate, Pederson was greeted by former teammates Clayton Kershaw, Cody Bellinger, and others. He opened the magic box containing the ring and put it on, much to the delight of the gathered Dodger faithful, who still remember what a key part Pederson was to their postseason success.
Pederson, nicknamed “Joctober” for his many playoff exploits, was really remarkable in the 2020 postseason, after a very lackluster regular season. He hit .382 in the playoffs last year, with two home runs and a .991 OPS. If anybody deserved a ring, it was certainly Joc, whose heroics were absolutely instrumental last year.
But there was also a more poignant part of the night, when the Dodgers also gave a ring to Champ Pederson, Joc’s older brother, who has Down Syndrome. Champ was all smiles last night as he was interviewed by Chicago media, showing off proudly the bling. “Everything that entails with the Dodgers, they’re a great organization and a great team,” said Champ. “I’m very happy to be Joc’s older brother.”
