The City of Angels experienced widespread celebrations after the Los Angeles Dodgers clinched a nail-biting seven-match World Series title. Supporters worldwide united with local residents in jubilation, marking the first time in a quarter-century that a franchise has secured back-to-back championships.
Local events included a downtown parade on Monday morning, a reserved-seating event at Dodger Stadium, and impromptu gatherings throughout the city.
Social media videos depict countless of Angelenos flooding downtown streets, many displaying homemade signs and team flags. The team was seen traveling proudly on a double-decker bus through the crowds, hoisting the championship trophy high.
“My focus is already about the third time we’re going to do this,” Shohei Ohtani remarked through an translator.
The parade route ended at the stadium, where the players emerged to Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” with the renowned DJ providing music and the artist driving a light blue classic car around the field.
Festivities started well before the parade, with supporters setting off fireworks in the roads of the city center on Sunday night.
The World Series MVP, named the MVP of the championship, spoke plainly about the victory.
“We refuse to lose,” he said. “I adore this team. This city means everything to me.”
However, the team owner received a cooler reception at the celebration. Video footage from the event appear to show Walter walking onstage to a combination of cheers and jeers, with negative shouts interrupting his speech.
The championship acted as a bright spot in what has been a trying year for Los Angeles. An approximate quarter-million people showed up to the championship parade last year, and according to team member one athlete, fans this year showed as much if not more support.
“I feel like it’s nearly twice from last year,” he said. “The supporters are incredible. It’s truly amazing to be a part of this.”
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