Dodgers Celebrate World Series Title with Ceremonial Ring Presentation

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated their 2024 World Series victory on Friday night with a ceremonial ring presentation at Dodger Stadium, showcasing the team’s hard-earned achievement before their game against the Detroit Tigers.

Manager Dave Roberts announced that Kiké Hernández would participate in the ring ceremony after missing the home opener due to a stomach illness. “Kiké is feeling much better,” Roberts stated as he addressed the media before the game.

Hernández was unable to play against the Tigers as he continues to recover, but his presence during the ceremony delighted fans. The event kicked off with a performance of “We Are the Champions” by a choir in the left field pavilion.

The ring ceremony featured player introductions, with Clayton Kershaw, Mookie Betts, and World Series MVP Freddie Freeman receiving particularly loud cheers as they walked to the stage. Hernández was honored as he received his second championship ring in a heartfelt celebration that marked his first ring ceremony.

The championship rings were designed by Jostens and showcased a remarkable design. They include the iconic LA logo crafted from sapphires and surrounded by diamonds, highlighting the Dodgers’ historic journey. The ring features eight larger diamonds, one for each World Series championship, and includes a hinged opening portraying a representation of the Commissioner’s Trophy set inside Dodger Stadium.

Roberts expressed the importance of the ceremony, noting, “This is the final piece of our 2024 title celebration. Just to have the fans here to enjoy this with us really adds to the excitement.”

Among the commemorative touches, the rings include 34 blue stones to honor the late Fernando Valenzuela, and a piece from the bases used in the World Series. Each player’s signature is engraved inside the ring.

The team entered the night with an undefeated record of 3-0 after previously sweeping the Japan Series against the Chicago Cubs and winning their home opener against the Tigers 5-4.

Roberts reminisced about the journey during the pregame event. He said, “This event is more than just a collection of materials; it’s a testament to our hard work and determination.”

Former Dodger Jack Flaherty, who started for the Tigers in Friday’s game, will receive his ring on Saturday before the game. Roberts paid tribute to Flaherty’s contributions during the Dodgers’ championship run, stating, “He was the right person at the right time for our club.”

The ring ceremony closed with players gathering for a group photo, showcasing their new bling, as a brass band played Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” Three Dodgers legends, Manny Mota, Steve Garvey, and Orel Hershiser, threw out ceremonial first pitches, adding to the festivity of the evening.