Cody Bellinger is not surprised many are picking the Los Angeles Dodgers to play in the World Series
The Los Angeles Dodgers would not be where they are, up-top the National League heading into the playoffs, without the stellar play of, NL-rookie-of-the-year-to-be, Cody Bellinger.
“It’s been incredible and definitely exceeded all expectations that I had for this year,” Bellinger exclaimed. “I didn’t know what to expect in spring training. With the kind of lineup that they (Dodgers) had and me in AAA. But, with a couple of injuries, I tried to take full advantage.”
Bellinger was called up April 25 with both injuries and a slow Dodger start created a dual need. The Dodgers and Bellinger immediately took off, on their way to an NL best 104 wins.
Now it is the Arizona Diamondbacks in the NLCS. Arizona beat the Dodgers 11 of out 19 times this year, including winning the last six. Many still feel the Dodgers are the favorites in the National League. Bellinger understands the favorite talk.
“I can see that,” Bellinger acknowledged. “We are feeling strong, we are feeling healthy. That being said, the regular season is in the past. We are preparing for what’s next, and that’s the playoffs.”
One of the highlights of Bellinger’s rookie season was having his Dad, Clay Bellinger, throw batting practice to him at the All-Star Game Home Run Derby.
“He was my coach on every single team that I’ve been on. We had a cage in our backyard at a young age and whenever I wanted to hit he would throw me BP,” Bellinger reflected. “That’s why I picked my Dad to pitch to me at the home run derby. He has been there my whole life. He just tells me little things everyday, never get too cocky and to stay humble.”
Clay Bellinger was a part of two World Series New York Yankees teams. He spent ten years in the minor leagues first biding his time. Dad did it right raising him according to Bellinger, not demanding he play baseball.
“He never pushed it on me,” Bellinger said. “It was always me wanting to go hit. He would never, ever tell me we need to go in the cage. Maybe if I was struggling, he might recommend it. But, he would never force it upon me.”
Bellinger is partnering with MET-Rx for his nutrition needs. He loves the Big 100 Colossal which he says tastes like”apple pie.”