From Tulsa to the World Series: 8 Drillers Who Took Home the Championship
The Tulsa Drillers, the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers, have a rich history of developing future MLB stars. Over the years, many Drillers alumni have gone on to achieve greatness, including eight players who have even earned the ultimate prize: a World Series ring.
Let's dive into the stories of these eight Tulsa Drillers players who made it to the pinnacle of baseball success:
1. Clayton Kershaw (2020)
The most recent Drillers alum to win a World Series is Clayton Kershaw. The future Hall of Famer spent the 2008 season in Tulsa, showcasing his dominant pitching skills. Kershaw's stellar performance earned him a promotion to the major leagues, where he has become a legend with the Dodgers. He finally achieved his ultimate goal in 2020, leading the Dodgers to their first World Series title since 1988.
2. Corey Seager (2020)
Playing alongside Kershaw in Tulsa during the 2012 season, Corey Seager established himself as a top prospect. After his successful journey through the minor leagues, he joined the Dodgers and quickly became a key piece of their offense. Seager played a crucial role in the 2020 World Series victory, earning the World Series MVP award for his outstanding performance.
3. Cody Bellinger (2020)
Joining Seager in the 2014 Drillers squad, Cody Bellinger quickly rose to prominence. His explosive power and defensive prowess earned him a quick promotion to the major leagues. In 2020, he continued his impressive trajectory, contributing significantly to the Dodgers' World Series win.
4. Kenley Jansen (2020)
Another member of the 2011 Tulsa Drillers, Kenley Jansen has become one of the most feared closers in baseball. His dominance in the ninth inning was crucial for the Dodgers throughout the 2020 postseason, including their World Series victory.
5. Zack Greinke (2020)
A Tulsa Drillers standout in 2005, Zack Greinke has been a dominant force on the mound for several years. While he played a supporting role on the 2020 World Series champion Dodgers, his years of excellence in the league cemented his place among the best pitchers of his generation.
6. Matt Kemp (2020)
Matt Kemp was a standout player for the Drillers in 2005, showcasing his impressive power and speed. He went on to play a crucial role in the Dodgers' success over several seasons, finally achieving his World Series dream in 2020.
7. Yasiel Puig (2013)
In 2013, Yasiel Puig burst onto the scene with the Tulsa Drillers, showcasing his electrifying talent. He quickly earned a promotion to the major leagues and became a fan favorite for his explosive play. Puig's energy and offensive prowess were valuable assets for the Dodgers, including their 2020 World Series victory.
8. Manny Machado (2014)
While Manny Machado never played for the Drillers, he was a fellow member of the 2014 Dodgers minor league system, playing for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. His exceptional skills and dedication helped propel the Dodgers to their ultimate triumph in 2020.
Beyond the Field: The Drillers Legacy
These eight players represent just a fraction of the talented athletes who have honed their skills in Tulsa. The Drillers continue to be a vital part of the Dodgers' player development system, consistently nurturing future stars who will hopefully one day add their own names to this impressive list.
The Tulsa Drillers' contribution to baseball history is undeniable. Their legacy extends far beyond the diamond, inspiring young players across the nation and showcasing the potential for greatness that lies within the minor leagues.