The Dodgers’ Unique Tequila Tradition: Celebrating Small Victories
In the world of Major League Baseball, celebrations typically center around significant victories, often marked by beer and champagne. However, the Los Angeles Dodgers have carved out a distinctive tradition that honors the small victories—the wins in series—through tequila shots. This unusual yet endearing ritual has become an integral part of their team culture, celebrating not just significant milestones but also individual achievements throughout the season.
A New Tradition Emerges
The Dodgers’ tequila tradition originated in May 2023, after a series sweep against the San Diego Padres. Newly-acquired players Miguel Rojas, Jason Heyward, and David Peralta noticed a serious tone among veteran players and thought it crucial to incorporate a celebratory aspect into routine wins. They felt the existing atmosphere lacked jubilation despite the team’s palpable talent. By pitching the idea to established stars like Mookie Betts and Clayton Kershaw, they successfully introduced a culture shift that encouraged players to celebrate their accomplishments collectively, albeit on a smaller scale.
The Celebration Ritual
Each time the Dodgers win a series, they gather in their clubhouse for a joyful recap led by Rojas. This celebration includes recognizing a series MVP, toasting with tequila (or apple juice for non-drinkers), and capturing a group selfie to immortalize the moment. “It’s just a game,” pitcher Dustin May notes, emphasizing the significance of enjoying the little victories amid their professional careers. This ritual not only fosters community but also encourages appreciation for each player’s contributions, reinforcing a sense of camaraderie among teammates.
Embracing Individual Achievements
The tequila ritual extends beyond just team victories. It has evolved into a way to honor individual milestones that might otherwise go unrecognized. The Dodgers make sure to toast players who attain significant career markers—like 10 years of service time, rookie achievements, and illustrious milestones such as Clayton Kershaw’s 3,000th strikeout. “It’s just a really cool way to recognize the good things,” says Freddie Freeman, underscoring how the tradition helps navigate the ups and downs of the long MLB season.
The Importance of Connection
The tequila shots serve as more than just a festivity; they represent a binding force among teammates. Rojas often highlights specific plays or contributions that showcase individual efforts during the series, thereby capturing moments that unite players in shared experience. This idea has resonated among newly-included players like Anthony Banda, who appreciate the intent behind celebrating victories and milestones with tequila shots, a departure from his past experiences. It emphasizes a level of reflection that not only recognizes achievements but also reinforces team cohesion.
Quality Matters
When it comes to the tequila itself, the Dodgers have adopted Clase Azul reposado, a high-end tequila that reflects their commitment to quality celebrations. Each bottle is a work of art, and third baseman Max Muncy takes responsibility for ensuring their coveted supply is always stocked. Rojas’ creative take on the tradition—using the decorative bottle as a microphone while recapping series highlights—injects an element of fun and personality into each gathering, fostering an atmosphere of enthusiasm and engagement.
A Lasting Legacy
As the Dodgers continue to build on this tradition, it bridges the present with future memories. Rojas collects selfies from these celebrations to preserve the shared moments, creating a digital scrapbook of camaraderie that players can reflect on years later. This simple yet impactful approach reinforces the idea that celebrating accomplishments—whether big or small—creates a lasting bond among teammates. As the team aspires for greatness each season, their tequila tradition serves as a reminder of the importance of connection, appreciation, and celebration, both on and off the field.
In capturing and appreciating small victories, the Dodgers are not just playing baseball; they’re building a culture that celebrates teamwork and individual excellence, ensuring that every milestone is acknowledged and every player feels valued. As each season unfolds, this tequila ritual not only enhances their bond but also cultivates a winning culture that could lead to more moments worth celebrating.
