“You can do whatever you want with it" - Orel Hershiser on Walker Buehler donning his 1988 jersey during the Dodgers’ 2024 World Series Parade
The Los Angeles Dodgers clinched the 2024 MLB World Series title after defeating the New York Yankees in five games, and Walker Buehler played a big part in it. The Dodgers pitcher had some standout moments during the series' thrilling 7-6 finale.
Buehler celebrated the victory by wearing the iconic No. 55 jersey of Dodgers legend Orel Hershiser at the championship parade through downtown Los Angeles. Buehler had borrowed Hershiser's actual jersey from the 1988 World Series.
In an episode of the Dodgers Territory podcast on Thursday, former pitcher Orel Hershiser spoke about the jersey, saying:
“This was the actual jersey that I was wearing in Oakland I had two sets and one set went to the Hall of Fame. And this is the other set that I have and so he was wearing that jersey around. So they win it.”
“And he just texted me this morning after I sent him a congratulation text. He texted me this morning. He says, ‘Can I keep the jersey through the parade.’ And I go, 'You can do whatever you want with it.'"
Walker Buehler finished with a 3.60 ERA in the postseason, giving up six runs on 12 hits in 15 innings, with 13 strikeouts.
Orel Hershiser candidly opens up about Walker Buehler asking to borrow his jersey
In Wednesday’s World Series finale, Walker Buehler took the mound in the ninth inning, replacing Blake Treinen. He then retired all three batters he faced, leading the Dodgers to victory.
Discussing Walker Buehler’s request to borrow his jersey, Orel Hershiser shared:
“I get a call during the game through the studio. Walker saying, ‘Do you still have your jersey from the 88. The grey one with the nice white pinstripes.’ And I go, 'Yeah, in Vegas.uBut I’m gonna have to have it Fedex’ed here for you, you want it.' He goes, 'Yeah yeah. I love that jersey I want to wear it to the Park.' I’m like, 'Oh my gosh. Okay.'”
“So I call my wife Dana And I’m like, 'You got to Fedex the jersey Walker want to wear it.' So they clinch and he wears it to the celebration after the San Diego game. His wife get mad at him and says, 'You are gonna get something on that.' And I’m like, 'Don’t worry. Whatever you get on it, it’s a better story.'”
Orel Hershiser played a big role in the Los Angeles Dodgers' 1988 World Series victory. He won the National League Cy Young Award as well as the World Series MVP. His standout performances included a shutout in Game 2 and allowing only two runs in Game 5.