Buddy Kennedy is set to receive a World Series ring, marking a significant milestone in his career. The Millville native has played for both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays during the regular season, ensuring that he will be recognized for his contributions as the teams face off in the upcoming 121st World Series, which begins this Friday in Toronto.
In addition to Kennedy, other South Jersey talents could also be celebrating potentially winning a ring. Davis Schneider, a Voorhees and Eastern High School graduate, and Joey Loperfido from Haddonfield’s Haddonfield Memorial, are both part of the Toronto organization and are eligible for championship recognition.
Throughout history, several South Jersey players have claimed World Series titles, including Andrew Bailey from Paul VI, who won with the Boston Red Sox in 2013, and Sean Doolittle from Shawnee, a participant in the Washington Nationals’ victory in 2019. Other notable players include Rawly Eastwick (Cincinnati Reds, 1975-76), Chris Widger (Chicago White Sox, 2005), Matt Szczur (Chicago Cubs, 2016), and Darren Ford (San Francisco Giants, 2010).
Kennedy’s road to the World Series has been eventful; he participated in seven games with the Dodgers, two with the Blue Jays, and also played four games with the Philadelphia Phillies after signing a free agent contract on April 1. Schneider and Loperfido are both included on the postseason roster for Toronto. Schneider has made impactful contributions, hitting .234 with 11 home runs and 31 RBIs over 82 games this season, while Loperfido has shown promise with a .333 average during the regular season in 41 games.
Kennedy’s journey took a turn when he was designated for assignment by Toronto on August 12, only to be claimed off waivers by the Dodgers shortly thereafter. After another designation by the Dodgers, he ultimately signed a minor league deal with Toronto in September.
As the World Series approaches, the excitement surrounding South Jersey connections in Major League Baseball continues to grow, showcasing local talent on one of the sport’s grandest stages.