Hanser Alberto seems to be the ultimate clubhouse guy for Dodgers

After losing an undoubtedly paramount clubhouse influence in Albert Pujols, the Los Angeles Dodgers knew they had to replace that kind of presence when the future Hall of Famer opted to finish his career where it all began with the St. Louis Cardinals.

But did fans really think that guy would be Hanser Alberto?! Shortly after the lockout ended, the Dodgers signed the veteran to a one-year contract with a club option for the 2023 season.

The versatile defender has appeared in only five games and registered nine at-bats, but it’s clear he wasn’t brought in primarily for his on-field contributions. The man is an electric factory in the dugout and his contagious energy is spreading throughout the roster.

Alberto has been a rock solid major leaguer over the last three seasons, but perhaps fans weren’t aware he’s capable of being tuned in to every pitch and every moment despite spending most of his time on the bench.

Now, it’s much more obvious the Dodgers knew what they were getting into when they signed the former Oriole and Royal, who, by the way, has a career .276 batting average and a positive dWAR across seven MLB seasons.

Welcome to LA, you wild man!

Hanser Alberto is the Dodgers’ ultimate hype man and it’s awesome

Uh … that third one is definitely a pepper grinder celebration. Yup. No further questions, please. That’s what it is.

In the next frame, you can see Gavin Lux bobbing his head in rhythm. Like we said, contagious! There aren’t many professionals who can seamlessly integrate themselves into a new clubhouse in late March and already be busting out these moves during the first two weeks of the season.

What’s his first homer as a Dodger going to look like?! The guy might combust!

If he’s already messing with Justin Turner like this, you just know it’s as genuine as it gets. A+ move by the front office, even if his on-field production doesn’t provide much of an impact.

$1.6 million for this type of entertainment? MLB was trying to attract a younger audience, right? The next CBA better take care of dugout hype men, that’s all we’re saying.

Los Angeles Dodgers: A deep dive into the team’s bench

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