2017 Dodgers World Series Roster: A Look Back

The 2017 Los Angeles Dodgers season was a memorable one, culminating in a World Series appearance against the Houston Astros. While they didn't clinch the title, the team's journey and the players who made it happen are still fondly remembered by Dodgers fans. Let's take a closer look at the 2017 Dodgers World Series roster, reminiscing about the key players and their contributions.

The Lineup: Offensive Powerhouses

The Dodgers' offense in 2017 was a force to be reckoned with, boasting a mix of veteran leadership and young talent. Guys like Corey Seager, despite being hampered by injuries later in his career, was a pivotal part of the team's success, providing stellar defense at shortstop and delivering key hits. His presence in the lineup was crucial, and his absence was definitely felt when he was sidelined.

Another cornerstone of the offense was Justin Turner. Turner, known for his clutch hitting and infectious personality, became a fan favorite in Los Angeles. His journey from being a non-roster invitee to an All-Star third baseman is a testament to his hard work and dedication. In 2017, Turner was a consistent presence in the lineup, providing both power and a high on-base percentage.

Cody Bellinger emerged as a star in 2017, winning the National League Rookie of the Year award. Bellinger's power and athleticism were immediately apparent, and he quickly became a key contributor to the Dodgers' offense. His ability to play multiple positions added versatility to the team, and his youthful energy was infectious. While he's had his ups and downs since then, his rookie season remains a highlight of his career.

Other important offensive contributors included Yasiel Puig, known for his exciting and sometimes unpredictable style of play; Chris Taylor, who had a breakout season in 2017, providing valuable contributions at multiple positions; and Logan Forsythe, a veteran infielder who brought a steady presence to the lineup. The depth of the Dodgers' offense was a major reason for their success in 2017.

The Pitching Staff: Dominance on the Mound

The Dodgers' pitching staff in 2017 was arguably one of the best in baseball, featuring a mix of established stars and emerging talent. Clayton Kershaw, the undisputed ace of the staff, continued to dominate hitters with his combination of velocity and pinpoint control. Despite some postseason struggles, Kershaw remained one of the most feared pitchers in the game, and his presence on the mound always gave the Dodgers a chance to win.

Yu Darvish, acquired mid-season, added another weapon to the Dodgers' rotation. Darvish's arrival bolstered the team's pitching depth and gave them a formidable one-two punch at the top of the rotation. While his World Series performance wasn't ideal, his overall contribution to the team in 2017 was significant.

Alex Wood had a breakout season in 2017, establishing himself as a reliable starter. Wood's success was a pleasant surprise for the Dodgers, and he quickly became a valuable member of the rotation. His ability to keep hitters off balance with his changeup and command made him a tough matchup for opposing offenses.

Rich Hill, known for his curveball and veteran savvy, provided a steady presence in the rotation. Hill's experience and ability to pitch deep into games were valuable assets for the Dodgers. Despite some injury concerns, he remained a reliable starter throughout the season.

The Dodgers' bullpen was also a strength, featuring Kenley Jansen as the closer. Jansen was one of the most dominant closers in baseball, with his cutter proving to be virtually unhittable. His ability to shut down opposing offenses in the late innings was a major key to the Dodgers' success.

Other important bullpen contributors included Brandon Morrow, who had a dominant season as a setup man; Kenta Maeda, who transitioned from a starter to a valuable reliever; and Tony Watson, a left-handed specialist acquired mid-season. The depth and versatility of the Dodgers' bullpen allowed them to match up well against opposing hitters and maintain leads late in games.

Key Role Players and Their Contributions

Beyond the star players, the 2017 Dodgers roster was filled with valuable role players who contributed in various ways. Guys like Enrique Hernandez, known for his versatility and ability to play multiple positions, provided valuable depth and flexibility for the team. His memorable three-home run game in the NLCS was a highlight of the season.

Austin Barnes, the backup catcher, provided solid defense and a steady bat. Barnes' ability to handle the pitching staff and contribute offensively made him a valuable asset. Chase Utley, a veteran infielder, brought leadership and experience to the clubhouse. Utley's presence was especially valuable for the younger players on the team.

Franklin Gutierrez, a veteran outfielder, provided a power bat off the bench. Gutierrez' ability to hit left-handed pitching made him a valuable weapon in late-game situations. These role players, along with others like Joc Pederson and Andre Ethier, contributed to the team's overall success by providing depth, versatility, and experience.

The Manager: Dave Roberts

Dave Roberts, the Dodgers' manager, played a crucial role in guiding the team to the World Series. Roberts' ability to connect with his players, make strategic decisions, and manage the bullpen effectively were key factors in the team's success. He fostered a positive and collaborative environment in the clubhouse, which allowed the players to thrive. While his in-game decisions were sometimes questioned, his overall leadership was instrumental in the Dodgers' success.

A Season to Remember

While the 2017 World Series didn't end with a Dodgers victory, the season remains a memorable one for fans. The team's journey, the players who made it happen, and the excitement of the postseason run are all fondly remembered. The 2017 Dodgers World Series roster was a special group of players who came together to achieve great things. Their contributions will not be forgotten by Dodgers fans.

Where Are They Now?

It's been several years since the 2017 World Series, and many of the players from that roster have moved on to different teams or retired from baseball altogether. Corey Seager is now a star shortstop for the Texas Rangers, having signed a lucrative free-agent contract. Justin Turner spent time with the Boston Red Sox and is now with the Toronto Blue Jays, continuing to contribute with his bat and leadership. Cody Bellinger is currently with the Chicago Cubs, looking to revitalize his career after some challenging seasons.

Clayton Kershaw remains with the Dodgers, continuing to be a dominant force on the mound when healthy. Kenley Jansen is now closing games for the Boston Red Sox, maintaining his status as one of the game's top relievers. Dave Roberts is still the manager of the Dodgers, having led the team to multiple World Series appearances and a championship in 2020.

While the 2017 Dodgers team didn't win the World Series, their legacy lives on in the memories of fans. The players on that roster left an indelible mark on the franchise and the city of Los Angeles. Their journey to the World Series was a testament to their talent, hard work, and dedication. The 2017 Dodgers World Series roster will always be remembered as a special group of players who came close to achieving baseball's ultimate goal.