LOS ANGELES -- The timing was impeccable for the Reds.

A former Dodgers player now with Cincinnati, Gavin Lux received his 2024 World Series championship ring from his former club just moments before Monday's series opener at Dodger Stadium.

“That’s what we’re all playing for every day," Lux said before the game. "We play 162 and grind it out every day for it. I hope that we can do another one this year. It’s the carrot in front of your face."

Had the Reds been well out of contention, the small ceremony might have served as simply a nice acknowledgement. But with 30 games left in the season just as Cincinnati is competing hard for a playoff spot, the ring is indeed a tangible incentive right in front of them.

“Hopefully, it fires some boys up," said Reds pitcher Nick Martinez, who is

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