Keith Williams Jr. is stepping onto the field for his 14th postseason national anthem at Dodger Stadium, kicking off the National League Division Series for the Dodgers this Saturday against the Atlanta Braves. That’s right, his *14th* postseason anthem, going back to 2016. Talk about a tradition, right? This guy’s a fixture, a voice signaling the biggest moments in LA baseball.
A Voice That Just Gets It: Keith Williams Jr.
When you hear that voice, you know it’s serious. Williams has been the guy for so many huge games. We’re talking Game 1 of the 2025 Wild Card round, Game 3 of the 2025 NLCS, and even opening day this regular season back on March 26. He’s not just some random singer; he’s part of the fabric of Dodger postseason baseball. For Game 2 on Sunday evening, they’ll have saxophonist Mike Phillips taking over anthem duties. It’s cool to see them mix it up a bit, but for Game 1, it’s all about that familiar feeling Williams brings.
Dodger Legends Take the Mound for First Pitches
It’s not just the anthem getting the ceremonial treatment. Adrián González, a name that brings back memories for many, is throwing out the first pitch before Game 1. González was a beast for the Dodgers, playing in four NL Division Series between 2013 and 2016. In 18 games, he put up a .260/.299/.438 slash line with four home runs and 14 RBI. The man delivered in big moments. For Game 2, Reggie Smith, who just got inducted into the Legends of Dodger Baseball in August, will do the honors. Smith played in one NLDS after the strike-shortened 1981 season, hitting one single in two at-bats, adding a sacrifice fly and two RBI in three games against the Houston Astros. Both González and Smith are set to deliver the iconic “It’s time for Dodger baseball” call ahead of their respective games. And if this NLDS goes the distance, get ready for Manny Mota and José Mota to handle the ceremonial first pitch before Game 5 next Friday, October 9, with Amber Blue on anthem duty.
So, Game 1 is set to bring all the pomp and circumstance that kicks off an NLDS, with Keith Williams Jr. and Adrián González setting the tone. Then it’s on to Game 2 on Sunday, with Mike Phillips and Reggie Smith. This series is just getting started, and you gotta love these nods to tradition as the battle begins.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by True Blue LA.
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