Scenes from the Dodgers’ long-awaited World Series parade captured a moment that transcended the game of baseball. On a vibrant Friday afternoon at Chavez Ravine, 42,458 fans filled Dodger Stadium, not merely to watch a game but to celebrate a monumental achievement that brought a city together.
Families arrived with their children, friends, and relatives, many of whom once cheered for Fernando Valenzuela, a player who inspired a generation and sparked a cultural movement. This gathering was a celebration years in the making, echoing the emotions of both past and present.
In 2020, when the Dodgers clinched the championship, the stadium was filled with cardboard cutouts. Real fans were locked down at home, limited by a pandemic that forced the postseason into a bubble in Texas, denying the team the parade they had envisioned.
Despite their impressive track record, including 11 consecutive postseason appearances, the Dodgers had not celebrated a full-season World Series title since 1988. This year, however, the atmosphere was different.
On what would have been Valenzuela’s 64th birthday, the city erupted in joy as the long-awaited parade commenced. Manager Dave Roberts remarked, “It certainly made up for 2020,” acknowledging the players who missed out on the experience back then.
Returning from New York, the Dodgers silenced critics who questioned the legitimacy of their previous championship. This year, their victory was a testament to their resilience and determination through a grueling season.
Clayton Kershaw expressed that the wait made the victory “even sweeter.” He shared his gratitude to the fans who supported him and his family throughout the years, emphasizing the emotional connection between the players and their supporters.
The streets of Los Angeles overflowed with fans, with hundreds of thousands lining the parade route from City Hall through downtown, culminating at Dodger Stadium, where they had secured 52 regular-season wins and clinched the NLDS and NLCS.
Roberts, who began October under scrutiny after early playoff exits, found himself celebrating on stage, dancing alongside Ice Cube, a reflection of his successful leadership.
The players took turns expressing their excitement. Shohei Ohtani, who joined the Dodgers after a challenging stint in Anaheim, addressed the crowd in English, sharing his honor in being part of the team and celebrating their victory.
Walker Buehler kept it short and spirited, declaring, “We’re world f—ing champions, motherf—er,” just days after throwing the final pitch at Yankee Stadium.
Mookie Betts, who has faced ups and downs in previous postseasons, pointed to his hand, humorously indicating his ambition to add more rings to his collection, a nod to his three World Series titles.
For many veterans, the celebration was a release of pent-up emotions. Freddie Freeman, who faced personal challenges, expressed gratitude for the support he received from fans during his family’s difficult times.
Teoscar Hernández, who joined the Dodgers seeking a fresh start, thanked the crowd for their warm reception, expressing his desire to return next season.
Kershaw, embodying the team’s journey through triumph and heartbreak, shared his joy, stating, “I didn’t have anything to do with this championship, but it feels like the best feeling in the world.” His connection to the franchise remains strong, even as he faces upcoming surgeries.
As he contemplates his future, Kershaw remains committed to the Dodgers, looking forward to another season. The latest championship brought him not just relief but tears of joy, underscoring the profound impact baseball has on its players and fans alike.
“Baseball is just a game, everybody says that,” Kershaw reflected. “But you look around and see how much it means to so many different people. It might be baseball, but it means a lot to a lot of different people, and I’m no different.”
