At least one Dodger is still in the playoffs! The Atlanta Braves are playing for their first World Series title since 1995. They’re also playing against the hated Houston Astros. And they also feature old friend Joc Pederson on the roster — World Series champion Joc Pederson.
Joc, of course, left the Dodgers last offseason after LA brought home its first championship since 1988. The outfielder inked a one-year deal with the Chicago Cubs in February. He was later traded to the Braves mid-July where he brought championship pedigree and some light vibes to a team that needed it.
Atlanta third baseman Austin Riley talked about Joc keeping it light, adding, “I think you need one of those guys on your team.” – via LA Times, Jack Harris.
But for the Braves, there was more than vibes and pearls to Joc. Atlanta coach and former Dodger Eric Young (senior) shared his thoughts on what Pederson brought to the table for a team in need.
“We knew he was a winner because he came from the Dodgers and had been on World Series teams and been to the playoffs almost every year, so he knew exactly what it took,” Young said. “He was a good mix of what we needed at the time. We were a little down … and he just came in and was like, ‘We’re good. We’re gonna show them.’”
The things you can rely on in life days, death, taxes, and Joctober magic. Despite a cold World Series showing so far, Pederson has made his impression felt this October. As he always does. A clutch pinch hit home run sent the Braves on to face the Dodgers in the NLCS. His 3 homers are tied for the most on the Braves (with Freddie Freeman). His 9 runs batted in are second on the team. And mind you, he’s done that without starting every game this October.
If rooting against the Astros isn’t enough for you in this World Series, rooting for Joc Pederson should help you feel a little better about rooting for the team that beat the Dodgers.
The Braves lead the series 3 games to 1.