The Los Angeles Dodgers gave rookie Joc Pederson a pretty good, and fairly original, rookie hazing assignment.
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Rookie hazings have been around MLB for quite a while, from rookies having to pay for dinner for the veterans on the team to forcing the youngsters to wear goofy (and often embarrassing) outfits while traveling. Often dismissed as “team-building” or “all in good fun,” rookie hazings have come under scrutiny for a variety of reasons, including sexism and bullying, but still continue today.
The Dodgers’s hazing wasn’t really bullying or sexist, but it’s likely Pederson was still a tad uncomfortable when told he had to go make a coffee run for the team — in his full uniform.
I would have liked to know if anyone in Starbucks asked him why he was dressed up like a baseball player, or if anyone recognized him, but Pederson’s being a good sport just by sharing the photo. As far as hazings go, this one seems pretty innocuous.
Pederson might not be recognized around LA now, but he could be a household name by the time his career is done. Pederson is one of the Dodgers’ top prospects, but the 22-year old has struggled in his limited playing time this September, with only three hits in 20 at bats. It’s encouraging to see Pederson has already walked seven times, though, and it’s nice to see the rookie show patience both with his older teammates and at the plate.
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