It is said that there are no sanctuaries and exceptions in the application of rules, but it destroyed the impression of viewers. The ending of the welcoming ceremony for ‘returned MVP’ Cody Bellinger (28, Chicago Cubs) was an automatic strike for violating the pitch clock.

Bellinger visited Dodger Stadium on the 15th (Korean time) for the first time as a member of the Cubs, not the Dodgers. Bellinger, who joined the Dodgers in the 4th round of the 2013 rookie draft, grew up at the Dodgers and rose to the top. He won the 2017 National League Rookie of the Year, the 2019 National League MVP, and the 2020 World Series championship ring. However, it fell rapidly due to injuries and sluggishness. Eventually, he was released as a non-tender free agent last year and signed a one-year, $17.5 million contract with the Cubs.

The Dodgers prepared a welcome event ahead of Bellinger’s visit.메이저놀이터 Through the electronic signboard, Bellinger produced and screened a two-minute video about the process of growing up from his childhood to the Dodgers. At the end of the video, he also left a welcome message saying, “Welcome back, Cody Bellinger.” Subsequently, a welcome ceremony was held on the right side of the outfield ground, and Bellinger also took off his hat and left a greeting.

Bellinger’s welcome ceremony continued until his first at-bat. Dodgers fans greeted Bellinger with a standing ovation for Bellinger, who appeared as the lead batter in the top of the second inning, and Bellinger felt the atmosphere intact. However, the referee did not stay still. He declared an automatic strike after Bellinger entered the plate and notified him of his pitch clock violation. It was a moment of emotional destruction.

After the game, Cubs coach David Ross expressed regret about the referee’s decision, saying, “It wasn’t my preferred night” after watching this scene. Still, Bellinger acknowledged the situation, saying, “It seems that rules are rules.” 

Bellinger, though, once again thanked the Dodgers fans for welcoming him. “It was a really good and wonderful moment,” he said. “Except for today’s appearance on the other side of Dodger Stadium, I have many good memories here. It’s nice and happy to be back, but I’m a bit confused.”

“It brought back a lot of memories I had. I received a lot of applause and I tried my best to immerse myself in that moment.” I am really proud of my younger self. I made a lot of good memories, and the fans gave me a lot of love for 6-7 years.”