Joe Kelly’s Return to Dodgers: Impact on Team Dynamics and Championship Aspirations
Insights into Joe Kelly's View on Dodgers' Organizational Strength
When the Dodgers made a deal to acquire experienced reliever Joe Kelly before the deadline, it was a reunion that held significance for both sides. Kelly’s journey had its highs and lows in LA, ultimately proving to be a valuable signing for the team after a challenging 2018 World Series loss to him and Mookie Betts.
After the 2021 season, Kelly left the Dodgers to join the White Sox with a new contract. However, his time with the White Sox has given him a fresh perspective on what the Dodgers do to set themselves up for victory. In a conversation with Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Kelly shared his unique viewpoint about the two organizations. The comparison is clear: While the White Sox are perceived as a less well-run team, the Dodgers stand out as one of the finest in the world of sports.
This season, the Dodgers are showcasing that their success goes beyond just analyzing players’ numbers. They’re taking players’ character and values into account before welcoming them into the team.
In preparation for the deadline, Andrew Friedman and Brandon Gomes took a deep dive into their team’s strengths and weaknesses, identifying areas that needed reinforcement. A vital aspect of their strategy was to preserve the harmony within the Dodgers’ clubhouse by avoiding any potential disruptions from acquiring players who might not align with the team’s ethos.
It’s noteworthy that the Dodgers didn’t chase after a marquee superstar despite their efforts. Instead, they focused on acquisitions that might not have made headlines but have significantly impacted the team’s overall performance.
One key acquisition before the deadline was Ryan Brasier, whose consistency has made him the Dodgers’ most dependable reliever.
Every move the Dodgers make is meticulously planned with their ultimate goal in mind: clinching a world championship in 2023.
Although Joe Kelly is currently sidelined due to an elbow issue, his presence is expected to play a crucial role in the Dodgers’ journey toward that championship goal come October.
