Brusdar Graterol: In a stunning Game 2 of the World Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers clinched a 4-2 victory over the New York Yankees, taking a 2-0 lead as the series heads to New York. A key figure in this success is Dodgers pitcher Brusdar Graterol, who has shown both style and skill, sporting custom Kobe Bryant-inspired cleats and delivering standout performances that embody the “Mamba Mentality.”
Graterol’s homage to the late Lakers legend has captured attention both on and off the field. His custom cleats feature Kobe Bryant’s iconic image and a “mamba snake” on one side, along with the motivational words “Mamba mentality” and “Job’s not finished,” a famous line from Bryant’s career. The footwear tribute, shared widely on social media platform X before Game 2, underscores Graterol’s mindset as he faces down batters with precision and focus, much like Bryant did in his NBA career.
The Dodgers’ bullpen has been a critical part of their World Series run, and Graterol’s contributions are especially notable. The reliever, who already boasts a World Series ring from the Dodgers’ 2020 title, is pitching with a 2.45 ERA and has struck out seven batters across seven appearances this postseason. In Game 1, he allowed only a single hit in one inning, setting the stage for the Dodgers’ winning momentum.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has kept his pitching rotation tight, utilizing only seven pitchers across two games, compared to nine from Yankees manager Aaron Boone. The Dodgers’ staff maintains a remarkable 2.37 ERA with 20 strikeouts against a Yankees lineup known for power hitting. In contrast, the Yankees’ pitching struggles have been evident, with a 4.58 ERA and fewer strikeouts overall.
While New York’s ace Gerrit Cole showcased a strong performance in Game 1, their Game 2 starter, Carlos Rodon, faltered, giving up four runs on six hits in just over three innings. Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto was exceptional, surrendering only one run and one hit over 6 1/3 innings. Yamamoto’s dominant display continues his impressive journey as a three-time MVP and Triple Crown winner in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball.
The Dodgers’ powerful showing on the mound, led by the relentless energy of Graterol, reinforces the “Mamba Mentality” that has become synonymous with overcoming challenges and excelling under pressure. With his Kobe-inspired cleats and relentless drive, Graterol is embodying Bryant’s famous philosophy and pushing the Dodgers closer to yet another championship title.
