A lot of Los Angeles Dodgers fans had Friday night's matchup against the Chicago Cubs circled on the calendar for a very obvious reason: it is the first time that 2019 National League MVP Cody Bellinger is returning to Dodger Stadium.
Bellinger was non-tendered by the Dodgers this past winter and he ultimately signed a "prove-it" deal with the Cubs. As painful as it was to see Bellinger go, it was understandable and almost inevitable with how Bellinger has played in recent years.
Despite the immense struggles over the last two years, Bellinger still has a special place in Dodgers fans' hearts and that was on full display before Friday's matchup. The Dodgers put together a heart-wrenching tribute video that caused Dodger Stadium to explode in a standing ovation for Belli.
The love for Cody Bellinger didn't stop there for Dodgers fans.
A standing ovation for Bellinger was not enough for Dodgers fans on Friday night. Bellinger led off the top of the second inning for the Cubs and just like they did before the game, the fans at Chavez Ravine made sure to shower appreciation for their former star outfielder.
Unfortunately for Bellinger, those cheers also turned into cheers when Noah Syndergaard ultimately retired him with a weak grounder to first base. For the first time in his career, it was actually a good thing that Bellinger recorded an out while playing at Dodger Stadium.
Even though the situation in LA ended horribly for Bellinger and the team didn't take long to upgrade with James Outman, Friday night made it clear that Bellinger will always have a special place in the heart of Dodgers fans regardless of where he is playing.
That is what happens when you put together one of the best seasons in franchise history to go along with several iconic playoff moments. Cody Bellinger might be donning Chicago across his chest but he will forever be a part of Los Angeles.
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