Game 2 of the Dodgers-Padres NLDS was everything baseball fans could’ve asked for and more. One of the highlights of the game came during the 7th inning when Fernando Tatis Jr. got a hold of a Brusdar Graterol fastball and gave it a ride to deep center field. What was almost a game changing home run turned into a highlight real that will be remembered for years.
Thanks to the athleticism of Cody Bellinger and possibly the spacious caverns of Globe Life Park, the Dodgers were able to escape the inning with the lead. Graterol did little to hold back his emotions as he threw his glove and hat in celebration.
Good night. #LATogether pic.twitter.com/RhcZugIEfR
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 8, 2020
Ironically, the team who has been in the spotlight of the league this year with celebrations and playing with emotion did not take too kindly to being on the other side. Most notably former Dodger Manny Machado (aka Johnny Hustle) and Tatis were visibly upset while Graterol, Muncy, and Mookie Betts all chirped back.
If you can Hit a Home Run, throw your Bat & show emotion, got to be cool w/ pitcher celebrating too 🤷🏽♂️ #Dodgers pic.twitter.com/J6ew1AgPxn
— Jerry Hairston, Jr. (@TheRealJHair) October 8, 2020
That has to be the most fired up moment that we’ve seen from Mookie Betts this year. How wonderful it is to see Mookie backing up a teammate who was supposed to included in the trade for him. Instead, the Dodgers were able to acquire both in separate deals.
When asked about Graterol and his presence on the team, Mookie praised him and raved about the energy he brings to the team.
“He’s a competitor. He loves to have fun, but he’s definitely fierce on the mound. He showed some emotion, too. He’s pretty much everything you could ask for. Great teammate, and like I said, a great competitor, and just a great person.”
The Dodgers certainly got the best of both worlds with their new players. They have a leader who puts up MVP-caliber numbers and a reliever whose future isn’t too far from closing out games for the Boys in Blue. We can’t thank the Red Sox enough for allowing the team to get away with not one, but two steals.
