Giants part ways with rival Dodgers' World Series hero just months after waiver claim

Hunter Cookston

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Giants part ways with rival Dodgers' World Series hero just months after waiver claim image

The 2025 World Series will forever be remembered as one of the greatest ever, featuring twists and turns rarely seen, especially in the final two games. One play that potentially saved it all came in Game Six, when Justin Dean raised his hands straight up over a lodged ball, preventing the runners from scoring and prompting the umpire to call a dead ball.

“The fact this is ruled a ‘lodged ball’ but then the CF has no problem picking it up and throwing it in is dumb. He didn’t even make an effort to grab it right away. Blue Jays might have gotten screwed,” SI’s JD Andress posted.

Despite his heroics, Dean was later let go by the Dodgers, a reminder of the brutal business side of professional sports.

“The Dodgers outrighted Justin Dean off the 40-man roster. He was claimed by the Giants. Dean played a key role for the Dodgers as a pinch runner and defensive replacement in center field this postseason. Forever a World Series champion,” Dodgers Nation’s Noah Camras wrote.

Just a couple of months after being claimed by the San Francisco Giants, Dean has been let go again. While his bat may not be the strongest, his speed and defensive skills are exactly what teams need in the postseason.

“World Series champion Justin Dean has been DFA'd by the San Francisco Giants after getting claimed by them two months ago. We don't know where Dean will start the 2026 season just yet but his time with the Dodgers will always be remembered,” Dodgers Nation posted.

The Giants’ outfield is already crowded, so Dean wasn’t likely to get much playing time. A reunion with the Dodgers is always possible, though nothing has been reported.

Dean will now look forward to his next opportunity with a team willing to utilize his skills. For the Dodgers, however, they will always be thankful for his heads-up play in Game Six of the World Series.

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