The 21-year-old rookie embraces his role as a pinch hitter after a strong September debut
Category: Sports
LOS ANGELES – Josue De Paula, a 21-year-old rookie, was set to spend October relaxing at home with family before his offseason training began. Instead, he received a call from Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts just days before the postseason, offering him a spot on the team’s playoff roster. "I was shocked. I was happy," De Paula said. "There was a lot of emotions going on at the same time. A lot of thoughts going into it, like envisioning how this is going to be. I'm just going along for the ride and see how everything comes to me."
De Paula’s unexpected promotion comes as the Dodgers aim for their third consecutive World Series championship. His primary role will be as a left-handed bat off the bench, a position he is not entirely accustomed to. In his entire minor league career, he has pinch-hit only once or twice, with his most recent appearance in that role occurring in 2024 with the High-A Great Lakes team. Nevertheless, the Dodgers have placed their trust in him after he made a strong impression during his first 11 games in the big leagues this September.
De Paula played a total of 11 games in September, hitting .323 with a .500 on-base percentage and a .545 slugging percentage, which resulted in a 1.081 OPS. His calm demeanor at the plate and solid pitch recognition were instrumental in his selection over fellow teammate Dalton Rushing, who is currently hindered by a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. "I think what we saw is a really good idea of the strike zone, quality of contact," Roberts stated, praising De Paula’s ability to remain composed under pressure. "He’s really unflappable, good heartbeat. I think that translates into the postseason."
De Paula’s rise to the postseason roster is particularly notable considering he was watching the Dodgers’ playoff run from Miami just a year ago. "I believe I was watching it, if I’m not mistaken, probably in Miami," he recalled. "To see it in person, I just feel like you can’t replicate it anywhere else. Seeing it on TV and being here is two different worlds." This time, he is in the dugout at Dodger Stadium, preparing to contribute to his team’s success.
De Paula’s unexpected opportunity arises from a season filled with promise. He was honored as the Dodgers’ Branch Rickey Award winner, recognizing him as the organization’s Minor League Player of the Year for 2026. His impressive performance in the minor leagues paved the way for his brief stint in the majors, where he filled in for the injured Shohei Ohtani. During that time, he quickly became a fan favorite, known for his infectious energy on and off the field. "At the end of the day this is a game, and I just try to make sure everybody's having fun. Why not kick butt and have fun at the same time?" De Paula said, emphasizing the importance of enjoyment in the game.
Roberts has acknowledged the challenges De Paula faces in his new role, particularly since he has limited experience as a pinch hitter. His only pinch-hit appearance in the majors came on September 16, when he drew a walk against the Cincinnati Reds. Still, he remains optimistic and is working to adjust to the demands of his new position. "I try to keep it normal, like what I would do every day if I was starting. I like the adrenaline of it," he said, demonstrating his readiness to embrace the pressure of postseason play.
As the Dodgers strive for another championship, De Paula’s ability to remain composed and focused will be key. His teammates, including veterans like Mookie Betts, are supporting him as he navigates this new chapter in his career. "To have somebody like that, those two people to have so much confidence in me, it just kind of gives me extra confidence," De Paula expressed, referring to the trust Roberts and president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman have placed in him. "Obviously, I feel like I have a lot of confidence in myself to go out there and handle business, but to have those guys backing me, it's like, 'Oh, yeah, let's get it started.'"
With the Dodgers currently competing in the National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves, De Paula’s opportunities may be limited, but his potential impact remains high. The team is looking to utilize him strategically as a pinch hitter in key situations. His role could become increasingly important as the series progresses, especially if the Dodgers find themselves in tight games where a single swing could change the outcome.
Game 1 of the NLDS saw the Dodgers secure a 5-3 victory over the Braves, but De Paula did not see any action. As the series continues, he will be prepared to step in when called upon. The Dodgers’ next game is scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, where they will face the Braves again with a chance to extend their lead in the series.
De Paula’s transition from a spectator to a participant in the postseason showcases his remarkable growth and determination. As he waits for his moment, he is soaking in every experience, knowing that this is a unique opportunity that few players get to enjoy. "I just feel like you can't replicate it anywhere else," he reiterated, highlighting the significance of being part of the postseason atmosphere.