EARLIER THIS FALL, the Los Angeles Dodgers took home their second World Series Championship in five years, defeating the New York Yankees during Game 5 of the series. Though you might not see him on the diamond, there’s a Trojan behind the scenes, keeping the players in peak physical shape to round those bases. USC alumnus Bernard Li has served as the L.A. Dodgers Major League Physical Therapist and Head of Rehabilitation for four seasons. We caught up with Li shortly after the celebrations to talk shop, including how his studies at USC contributed to his success, what a typical day is like and what his advice would be for current students looking to walk the same path. 

How did you begin your career with the Los Angeles Dodgers?

I began my career in Major League Baseball as a physical therapist. My first role was with the Anaheim Angels, after being recommended for a position on their athletic training medical staff. After spending a decade with the Angels, I transitioned to an advisor position in athlete care and medical services for the Seattle Mariners. I am now in my fourth season with the 2024 World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers as the Major League Physical Therapist and Head of Rehabilitation, which has been an incredibly rewarding chapter in my career.

What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?

Seeing the immediate impact of our interventions. When an athlete undergoes physical therapy, it’s not just about rehabilitation, it’s about helping them return to peak performance. I take immense satisfaction in working directly with athletes and seeing how our tailored rehabilitation programs can enhance their recovery and readiness. It’s also deeply rewarding to represent the USC Physical Therapy community in this context, providing the highest level of care to elite athletes.

How did your USC education prepare you for your eventual career in sports rehabilitation?

I owe a lot of my success to my time at USC. The education I received laid the foundation for everything I’ve done. I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to the professors, mentors and USC DPT Class of 2004 colleagues for fostering an environment of excellence that has continued to shape me as a clinician. I also completed the USC orthopedic residency in 2005, which significantly accelerated my professional development and skill set. 

What is your best advice for a student seeking to emulate your career path?

The most important advice I can give is to be adaptable and open to opportunities. There’s no single formula for success. It’s essential to pursue continual learning, seek mentorship and take on challenges that push you outside of your comfort zone. I encourage students and young professionals to explore different paths, take part in residencies and build a network of mentors who can guide them as they refine their career direction.

What is a typical day like for you in your current role?

A typical day is anything but typical! My responsibilities are dynamic and can change based on the team’s schedule and player needs. I spend much of my time assessing and treating injuries, developing individualized rehabilitation plans and working closely with the coaches, athletic trainers, strength and conditioning staff and physicians to ensure optimal care for the players. I’m often involved in strategy discussions about injury prevention, long-term athlete health and performance goals. Given that we are part of a high-performance environment, the pace is fast, but it’s also highly rewarding.

What is it like to be able to celebrate a portion of the LA Dodgers World Champion glory?

Being part of the Dodgers’ 2024 World Championship victory is an incredible honor. While my role in rehabilitation is behind the scenes, the chance to help athletes recover and perform at the highest level is an immense privilege. To be part of the team that achieved this success, especially knowing the hard work that went into each player’s recovery and preparation, is deeply fulfilling. There’s a special sense of camaraderie and accomplishment in celebrating such a monumental achievement with the Dodgers, and it’s a moment I will always cherish.

—John Hobbs MA ’14