Earlier this season, the Seattle Mariners gave up on struggling second baseman Kolten Wong, ultimately designating the veteran for assignment.
However, it would not be long before another team came calling.
The Los Angeles Dodgers had other ideas.
And so, Wong joined the Dodgers, being claimed off of waivers after his designation.
On Friday, Wong played his first game as a member of the Dodgers, and he had a night to remember.
In just his first at-bat with his new team, Wong went yard, hitting a three-run home run in the bottom of the eighth inning to bring the Dodgers to within 6-3.
On Twitter, the Dodgers posted a video of Wong’s first homer with the team.
First Dodger at-bat for Kolten Wong? Homer. pic.twitter.com/vjsD1BkWCE
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 2, 2023
Wong has had a difficult season.
The 32-year-old is hitting just .169 on the season and has an OPS of just .490.
He also has only hit three home runs and driven in 22.
However, he made that third home run count.
It was enough to light a fire under the crowd and get the Dodgers back into the game.
He was down 0-2 in the count before taking Atlanta Braves reliever Pierce Johnson deep.
The Dodgers couldn’t muster any more than that, but it was certainly a good moment for Wong, who has struggled mightily this season.
Wong was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011 and played with them from 2013-20.
He spent two years with the Milwaukee Brewers before joining the Mariners.
Now, he’s found a home with the Dodgers, who are playing for a spot in the postseason and yet another NL West title.
