LOS ANGELES —

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villariagosa presented the Hope of Los Angeles Award to Dodger All-Star closer Takashi Saito in a city hall ceremony Friday. For nearly a decade, the Hope of Los Angeles Award has been given annually to individuals who are world renowned in their field and who demonstrate leadership and inspiration.

’’You represent in so many ways what LA is all about,’’ said Villariagosa to an audience full of city officials and community members. ‘‘Coming here and starting from scratch and making it, you give us hope that our championship drought will end at 20 years. We’re so proud of you.’’ Saito said he was honored to be recognized by Los Angeles and felt the award would give his team the momentum to have a good season.

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