For Los Angeles Dodgers fans, following the team is often more than just a hobby—it’s a way of life. But one superfan recently made headlines after taking that loyalty to a whole new level. A lifelong Dodgers supporter has immortalized her admiration for former Dodgers outfielder Cody Bellinger by turning his autograph into a permanent tattoo.
The story started at a fan meet-and-greet event shortly before Bellinger was traded to the Chicago Cubs. Among the many fans in attendance was 27-year-old Jamie Alvarez, a lifelong Angeleno and devoted Dodgers fan. Armed with a Bellinger jersey and a sharpie, Jamie waited in line for hours to meet her favorite player. When the moment finally arrived, Bellinger signed the sleeve of her jersey with his trademark looping signature.
Instead of letting the ink fade into a distant memory, Jamie decided to do something bold. The day after the event, she visited a local tattoo parlor in Silver Lake and had the autograph permanently inked on her forearm, exactly where Bellinger had signed. The tattoo artist traced the signature carefully, creating a near-perfect replica of what the MLB star had written on her sleeve.
“It’s not just about the player,” Jamie explained. “It’s about everything Cody symbolized during his time with the Dodgers—the MVP season, the World Series win, even the struggles. He gave it his all and never lost his connection with the fans.”
Jamie’s story quickly generated buzz on social media. Fellow fans chimed in, showing their support and sharing their own stories of admiration for Bellinger. The fan-tattoo even caught the attention of sports media outlets and eventually, Bellinger himself, who reposted a picture of the tattoo on his Instagram story with the caption, “That’s loyalty right there.”
This isn’t the first time a sports figure’s signature has turned into body art, but it’s a rare honor reserved for those who create a lasting impact on their fanbase. For Dodgers fans, Bellinger was more than a player; he was a symbol of hope, resilience, and a key part of their 2020 World Series triumph—a moment of joy during a tough pandemic year.
Aside from being an incredible show of fandom, the tattoo also opens the discussion around how sports, community, and identity intersect. According to sociologists, sports fans often experience a deep connection with their teams and favorite players. When someone like Jamie chooses to ink a player’s signature, it’s almost like preserving a part of their personal and emotional timeline.
Public Reaction and Lasting Impact
The viral story has re-energized the Dodgers fanbase even as Bellinger dons a different jersey. It shows the profound impact athletes can have—not only through their stats or accolades—but as figures who represent community, shared memories, and even healing in tough times.
As for Jamie, she has no regrets. “It was spontaneous. I didn’t ask my friends, I didn’t second-guess it. I just knew I wanted to keep that moment with me forever. And now I have it.”
Whether or not Bellinger returns to the Dodgers someday, the memory of his years in blue lives on not just in team history—but now, quite literally, in the skin of his biggest fans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who is Cody Bellinger?
Cody Bellinger is a professional baseball player who debuted with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2017. He was the 2019 National League MVP and helped lead the Dodgers to a World Series victory in 2020. - Is it common for fans to get tattoos of player autographs?
While it’s not unheard of, it’s relatively rare. Fans usually do this as a deep expression of admiration for a player who has made a significant emotional impact on their lives. - How did Cody Bellinger respond?
Bellinger acknowledged the tattoo by sharing it on his Instagram story, calling it “loyalty” and appreciating the gesture. - Did the fan get permission before tattooing the autograph?
No explicit permission was needed. The autograph was given publicly at a fan event, and the choice to tattoo it was entirely personal. - How did other fans react?
The reaction has been largely positive, with many praising the dedication and sharing their own memories of watching Bellinger play for the Dodgers.
