For Joe Kelly, Dodgers’ Success is More Than Just What You See on the Field

When the Dodgers swung a trade for veteran reliever Joe Kelly ahead of the deadline, it marked a homecoming for both sides. Kelly had his ups and downs with LA but proved to be a mostly quality signing for the team after losing to the pitcher (and Mookie Betts) in the 2018 World Series.

Following the 2021 season, Kelly left LA for a contract with the White Sox. After being with Chicago for a couple of seasons, he seems to appreciate what the Dodgers do to prepare for winning even more. The right-hander shared his view of the organization with Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

“I don’t know where to start,” Kelly says, “but honestly, they put more energy from the bottom of the organization to the top. From people who sell Cracker Jack to those who rake the field in spring training to minor-league coaches and staff. They put an emphasis on finding the right people, no matter what, at all costs.

“Obviously, they find the right talent, but also the right fit, and the right person. They go above and beyond trying to find the perfect fit on all aspects. And they do that better than anyone else.”

Most baseball fans realize the White Sox are a poorly run organization whereas the Dodgers are considered one of the best in sports.

This season the Dodgers have shown they are more than analytical analysis of players. They take players’ character into consideration before bringing them into the fold.

Before the deadline, Andrew Friedman and Brandon Gomes studied their team to learn its shortcomings and then studied the possible players who might be available to fill their needs. They didn’t want to disrupt the Dodgers’ clubhouse chemistry by getting a bad apple.

The Dodgers didn’t obtain a big-name superstar even though they tried. The acquisitions have made a big impact on the Dodgers’ performance.

Before the deadline, the Dodgers acquired Ryan Brasier who has become the most reliable reliever.

Everything the Dodgers do has a specific purpose for them to achieve their goal of winning a world championship in 2023.

Kelly is sidelined for now with an elbow issue, but he figures to be a big part of that goal in October.