Four years ago, the Los Angeles Dodgers won the Major Leagues World Series title against the Tampa Bay Rays in a season overshadowed by the pandemic. Unfortunately, for the players who brought home the Commissioner’s Trophy that year, there was no celebratory parade through Los Angeles. Shohei OhtaniA key piece in this year’s journey, he was not part of that 2020 team.

Although Ohtani was instrumental in the Dodgers‘ World Series career, His contributions were especially critical in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the New York Mets.solidifying his exceptional performance in the regular season.

A player who was part of the 2020 championship squad and now the 2024 team is Enrique ‘Kike’ Hernández. Reflecting on the differences between the two victoriesHernandez spoke with Nikki Kay from Spectrum Sportssharing how meaningful this title feels.

“This moment means a lot to me. I could go on and on about why this is so special. I can’t imagine a better group of men to share this with. And this time, we have a parade. In 2020, When we won, my family was in the stands, but I couldn’t give them a hug because of COVID. Being able to hug my parents, my sisters, my cousin and of course my wife… it’s incredible. “This is so special.”

Enrique Hernandez #8 of the Los Angeles Dodgers (C) celebrates with minority owner Billie Jean King (R) and Ilana Kloss (L) after the Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees 7-6 in Game 5 to win the Series 2024 World Cup at Yankee Stadium on October 30, 2024 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Hernández’s statistics this season

Hernández had solid performances during the regular season, contributing significantly to Dave Roberts’ game plan. In 126 games, he recorded 362 at-bats, scoring 44 runs and 87 hits.

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In the playoffs, Hernandez appeared in 14 games with 51 at-bats, scoring 11 runs and securing 15 hits.and hit two home runs, one of which played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ victories in both the Major Leagues NLCS and the World Series against the Yankees.

Hernández’s performance in the 2020 World Series

Hernandez was one of a few players, including Mookie Betts, Walker Buehler, Max Muncy and Will Smith, who repeated his title with the Dodgers. The first championship, during the pandemic in 2020, felt different due to restrictions, but his contributions were still impactful.

In the 2020 World Series, Hernández had 10 at-bats, scoring once, with two hits and three strikeouts, although he recorded no home runs or stolen bases. Now, the feeling is different; Players can celebrate up close with their families, toasting with champagne and beer, a championship experience enriched by togetherness. The Commissioner’s Trophy is back in Los Angeles, with a parade planned to celebrate this hard-fought title.