Sports History

Born July 23, 1936, in Los Angeles, California, was Baseball Hall of Fame Pitcher, Don Drysdale. This legend of the mound was a World Series Champions with the Brooklyn/LA Dodgers in 1959, 63, 65. Drysdale was a nine-time MLB All Star, and won the coveted Cy Young Award in 1962. One of the most dominant pitchers of the late 1950s to mid-1960s, Drysdale stood 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) tall and was not afraid to throw pitches near batters to keep them off balance.

They've been called the "Boys of Summer," the "Blue Crew," and even the "Bums" – but through it all, the Los Angeles Dodgers have remained one of the most storied and beloved franchises in Major League Baseball history. Their journey, spanning over a century and two coasts, is an epic tale of triumph, heartbreak, and enduring passion for the game.

From Brooklyn Bridge to Sunset Boulevard: Our story begins in Brooklyn, New York, in 1883. Born as the "Brooklyn Atlantics," the team struggled for recognition in the early years, eventually earning the nickname "Bums" due to their hand-me-down uniforms. Yet, despite the moniker, the team fostered legends like Jackie Robinson, who broke baseball's color barrier in 1947, and Duke Snider, whose powerful swing earned him the title "The Silver Fox." They won their first World Series title in 1955, defeating the mighty New York Yankees.

Westward Bound: A New Chapter Begins: In 1958, yearning for a new stadium and facing rising costs, the Dodgers made a controversial move, relocating to Los Angeles. Doubts swirled, but under the guidance of iconic manager Walter Alston, the team thrived. With stars like Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale, and Tommy Lasorda, they dominated the 1960s and 70s, winning five World Series titles and establishing themselves as a California powerhouse.

Ups and Downs: Defining Moments Beyond Trophies: The Dodgers' story isn't just about championship glory. They've faced periods of adversity, heartbreaking playoff losses, and ownership controversies. Yet, through it all, their passionate fanbase, known as "Dodger Faithful," has remained constant. Moments like Kirk Gibson's dramatic walk-off home run in the 1988 World Series or Hideo Nomo's revolutionary windup serve as reminders of the team's ability to capture hearts and spark iconic memories.

A New Era Dawns: Young Stars and Renewed Hope: Recent years have seen the Dodgers rise again, fueled by a talented young core of players like Cody Bellinger, Mookie Betts, and Clayton Kershaw. They've clinched World Series titles in 2020 and 2022, proving that the tradition of excellence continues.

Join Us on This Historical Journey: This series will delve deeper into these defining moments and the characters who shaped them. We'll travel back in time to relive the Brooklyn era, explore the iconic rivalries, and analyze the challenges and triumphs of the Los Angeles years. We'll meet the legendary players, the passionate fans, and the unforgettable figures who have made the Los Angeles Dodgers more than just a baseball team – they are a symbol of resilience, community, and the enduring love for the game.

So, put on your blue and white, grab your Dodger Dogs, and join us on this captivating journey through the history of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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The Los Angeles Dodgers also played as LA Dodgers, Brooklyn Dodgers, Brooklyn Robins, Brooklyn Superbas, Brooklyn Bridegrooms, Brooklyn Grooms, Brooklyn Grays, and Brooklyn Atlantics

It is no secret that the Los Angeles Dodgers resulted from the Brooklyn Dodgers packing up shop and migrating west for greener pastures in 1958. What many may need to learn is that the moniker of Dodgers was the shortened version of a term about their fan's commute to the ballpark. Yes, 1896, according to the MLB's website, spectators had to cross many streetcar tracks to get into the stadium to watch games. The team noticed this and called themselves the Brooklyn Trolley-Dodgers. An outdated term for the late 19th century in reference to the Brooklyn borough's pedestrians who avoided the streetcars in the city that were so prevalent for public transport at that time. Eventually, the name was indeed condensed to simply Dodgers.

Were you aware that this was not the first name of the Brooklyn ballclub? In 1883, according to legend and archives, they were launched as the Brooklyn Atlantics, which they adopted from an earlier ballclub that failed to survive. The franchise pointed to the 1884 season when the nine of the Borough took the field as the Brooklyn Grays because of the color of their uniforms, a gray button-down with the word Brooklyn stitched vertically down the center. It was common practice back in the day to adopt the name of your team colors.

The MLB then states that the name was changed in 1888 again to the Brooklyn Bridegrooms after eight roster members married that season. A post on the LA Dodger Talk website blog says that the Bridegroom's playing shirts were photographed with collars on them and laced up the front ending in what looks like a string tie. 1891, it morphed again into the Ward's Wonders soon after John Montgomery Ward took over as the club's managing partner. With the management change in 1893, the team had folks calling them the Foutz's Fillies, named after Dave Foutz's tenure managing the Brooklyn Nine.

Still then, a few seasons later in the 20th-Century, the team garnered the moniker of the Brooklyn Superbas. This had an interesting connection. Ned Hanlon took over as the team's field manager. A famous vaudeville act was touring named "Superba," and the Hanlon Brothers produced it. Ned Hanlon was not known to be related to the brothers or their stage production other than in name association only. Well, it stuck in the press and with fans everywhere, and the team name was famous as the Superbas for a few years, even though on the books, they were officially still the Dodgers. In 1910, the team sported a solid-colored uni with a vertical button cover flap overlay with the word Brooklyn neatly sewn.

The sixteen-year run of Wilbert Robinson as club manager that started in 1915 led to the secondary nickname of the Brooklyn Robins. In years after that, the fans of the Dodgers endeared a series of names like "the Flock," the "Bums," and "Dem Bums." These came about from some cartoon images produced by famed artist William Mullin. Of course, if someone outside of the Brooklyn Fandon circle would call the bums, it was fighting words, but inhouse, it showed the love and support of their followers. In 1916, the uniform shirts of these teams often were solid gray or a grid of pinstripes or plaid design with a large "B" on the left chest area. During WWI, the B was replaced with a patriotic and appropriate American flag supporting the troops overseas. The name "Dodgers" was first sewn on the players' uniforms in 1933, and the famous Brooklyn "B" was moved to the right sleeve. Many times for road games in the coming years, the word "Brooklyn" replaced the "Dodgers" name on the front chest of players.
As for the color of "Dodger Blue," that is an interesting story all its own.

The reference is not to the particular color the team wore, as many may believe. No, the term came to be a few decades ago when former Brooklyn player and LA manager Tommy Lasorda claimed that he bled Dodger blue. In 1989, an azure shade was added to the official color database, and it is this Dodger Blue that is plastered all over Dodger Stadium, incorporated into the team gear and on team memorabilia and fanfare.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, with their rich history spanning both coasts, have seen their iconic uniforms evolve alongside the team itself. More than just fabric and stitching, these jerseys tell a story of changing eras, cultural shifts, and a team adapting to a new identity.

Born as the Brooklyn Atlantics in 1883, the team donned simple gray flannel uniforms embroidered with a red "A." With their hand-me-down attire, they earned the nickname "Bums," a moniker proudly displayed on their caps in later years. The arrival of Jackie Robinson in 1947 brought groundbreaking change, not just in baseball but also in the team's visual identity. The classic Brooklyn Dodger blue, introduced in 1938, became synonymous with desegregation and progress.

The move to Los Angeles in 1958 marked a major shift. Initially retaining the Brooklyn logo, the team experimented with variations until 1962, finally settling on the now-iconic interlocking "LA" emblem, designed by legendary sportswriter, Furman Bisher. This logo, symbolizing the merging of Brooklyn's legacy with its new Californian home, remains a cornerstone of their identity.

The uniforms themselves underwent stylistic changes throughout the decades. The 1960s saw a sleeker, modern look with pinstripes and white piping. The 1970s introduced the red alternate jersey, originally worn just on Fridays, which later became a fan favorite. The 1980s ushered in the classic white road jersey with the interlocking "LA" in blue script, a timeless design still worn today.

Special occasions prompted commemorative uniforms, further enriching the Dodgers' visual history. The powder blue "Sunday whites" from the 1970s and the throwback Brooklyn-inspired jerseys worn in recent years pay homage to the team's diverse heritage. Collaboration with artists like Takashi Murakami added a contemporary flair, pushing the boundaries of traditional uniform design.

Modernity brought technological advancements, with moisture-wicking fabrics and performance designs prioritizing player comfort. Yet, the core elements – the blue and white colors, the interlocking "LA" logo, and the clean, classic lines – remain faithfully preserved.

Sandy Koufax, born Sanford Ronald Koufax, was a dominant left-handed pitcher for the Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers from 1955 to 1966. His career, though tragically cut short by injuries, was nothing short of spectacular, leaving an indelible mark on baseball history.

Early Struggles and Breakthrough

Koufax's beginnings were far from promising. Initially plagued by control issues and inconsistency, he spent several years hopping between the minors and the majors. Yet, his raw talent was undeniable, and in 1962, everything clicked. He won 25 games, struck out 253 batters, and led the Dodgers to their first World Series title in Los Angeles. This marked the beginning of a three-year stretch of extraordinary dominance.
Peak Years and the Triple Crown

The next three seasons cemented Koufax's legend. He won the Triple Crown (leader in wins, strikeouts, and ERA) three times - the only pitcher in history to do so. In 1963, he posted a 1.88 ERA, the lowest in the National League since 1920. His 1965 season was even more remarkable. He finished 26-8 with a 2.76 ERA and a whopping 382 strikeouts, a single-season record that stood for 36 years. His curveball, nicknamed "The Hook" for its devastating break, was virtually unhittable, often leaving batters flailing in desperation.

World Series Hero and Early Retirement

Koufax played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' World Series wins in 1963 and 1965, earning MVP honors in both. His 1965 performance stands out for his near-perfect Game 5. He struck out 10 of the 27 batters he faced, allowing only one hit and no runs. Sadly, injuries began to take their toll on Koufax's elbow, forcing him to retire at the young age of 31, just when he seemed destined for even greater heights.

Legacy and Honors

Despite his short career, Koufax's impact on baseball is undeniable. He holds numerous records and has been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, receiving the honor unanimously in 1972. His talent, his dominance, and his tragic early retirement all contribute to his mystique and make him one of the most iconic and admired figures in baseball history.
Here are some additional facts and achievements that highlight Koufax's extraordinary career:

-Four no-hitters, including a perfect game in 1965

-Three Cy Young Awards

-Seven All-Star selections

-Winning percentage of .655 (highest among starting pitchers with at least 200 wins)

-Struck out more than 200 batters in five seasons

-Only pitcher in history to win the Triple Crown, strike out at least 250 batters, and have a sub-2.00 ERA in the same season (1963)

Sandy Koufax may not have had a lengthy career, but his talent, achievements, and sportsmanship earned him a place among the greatest pitchers of all time.

Jackie Robinson wasn't just a baseball player; he was a revolutionary, a symbol of courage and defiance who shattered baseball's color barrier in 1947. But beyond that monumental first step, his career was a tapestry woven with milestones, both on and off the field.

On the Diamond:

-Rookie of the Year (1947): Facing unimaginable pressure and relentless racism, Robinson's stellar batting average, stolen bases, and electrifying play earned him the league's first Rookie of the Year award, proving his doubters wrong.

-MVP Award (1949): Just two years later, Robinson silenced remaining critics with a dominant season, batting .342 and stealing 37 bases, securing the National League's Most Valuable Player award.

-World Series Champion (1955): After enduring years of discrimination and personal attacks, Robinson finally tasted championship glory with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1955. His World Series victory resonated far beyond the field, symbolizing a turning point in American society.

-Hall of Fame Induction (1962): Five years after retirement, Robinson became the first Black player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a baseball legend and national icon.

Beyond the Game:

-Activist and Voice for Change: Robinson leveraged his platform to fight for social justice, speaking out against segregation and advocating for equal rights for all Americans. He tirelessly pursued civil rights activism, leaving a lasting impact beyond the baseball field.

-Businessman and Entrepreneur: Recognizing the importance of economic empowerment, Robinson co-founded a construction company, becoming a role model for Black entrepreneurs and demonstrating the power of financial independence.

-Presidential Medal of Freedom (1984): Awarded posthumously, this prestigious honor recognized Robinson's contributions to baseball and American society, solidifying his legacy as a national hero.

Born September 22, 1927, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, was Baseball Hall of Fame Manager Tommy Lasorda. Lasorda played in MLB for the Dodgers in 1954 and 1955 and for the Kansas City Athletics in 1956.

Tommy managed the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball from 1976 through 1996. Winning the World Series 1981, 88. Lasorda was the NL Manager of the Year 1983 and 88.

Greg Maddux, nicknamed "Mad Dog" and "the Professor," was a masterclass in pitching strategy over his 23-year MLB career. Though he never dominated with strikeouts, his pinpoint control and cunning earned him 355 wins, 8th all-time.

-Path to the Big Leagues

Per Baseball Reference Maddux was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 2nd round of the 1984 MLB June Amateur Baseball Draft out of Valley High School in Las Vegas, Nevada. He made his MLB debut on September 2, 1986 against the Houston Astros and became a fixture on the Cubs staff the following season appearing in 30 games.

-Pinpoint control and dominance:

Maddux wasn't a flamethrower, but his accuracy and ability to locate his pitches frustrated batters. He won four Cy Young Awards in a row (1992-1995), a feat only matched by Randy Johnson.

-Atlanta Braves Era: His most successful stretch came with the Atlanta Braves (1993-2003). They won the National League West title every year during his tenure, reaching the World Series three times and winning it in 1995.

-Accolades and Longevity:

A stellar defensive player, Maddux holds the record for most Gold Glove Awards by a pitcher (18). He was an All-Star eight times and led the league in starts a record seven times. Remarkably durable, he only spent 15 days on the disabled list throughout his career.

-Career Highlights:

While never reaching 20 wins in a season more than twice, Maddux consistently piled up wins with a remarkable 18 seasons of at least 15 wins. He also holds the record for most seasons leading the league in games started (7).

Greg Maddux retired in 2008 and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014. He's remembered as one of the smartest and most effective pitchers ever to play the game.

-Summary of Greg Maddux Career

Greg Maddux career sketch by the Society for American Baseball Research. Originally drafted in 1984 by the Chicago Cubs, Maddux won 18 Gold Gloves, four Cy Young Awards, four ERA titles, was an eight-time All-Star, and was on the 1995 World Series Champion Atlanta Braves. Born April 14, 1966 and inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, he is one of the top MLB players to have worn the Number 31 Jersey.

Eddie Murray's Major League Baseball career was marked by consistent power, impressive durability, and a switch-hitting ability that made him a threat from both sides of the plate. Perhaps his best quality is that was equally effective of defense in the field.

Early Career and Rookie of the Year:

-Drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1973.

-Debuted in 1977, primarily as a designated hitter, hitting .283, and winning the American League Rookie of the Year Award with 27 home runs and 88 RBIs.

A Consistent Hitter and Powerhouse:

-Nicknamed "Steady Eddie" for his consistent performance.

-Played 21 seasons for the Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Cleveland Indians, and California Angels.

-Holds the record for most games played at first base (2,413) and is among the leaders in career intentional walks (222).

-Became the third player in history (after Hank Aaron and Willie Mays) to reach both 3,000 hits and 500 home runs.

-Finished with a career batting average of .287, 504 home runs, and 1,917 RBIs.

Accolades and Legacy:

-Eight-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Award winner.

-Won a World Series with the Baltimore Orioles in 1983.

-Finished in the Top 5 of his league's MVP voting six times, including runner-up finishes in 1982 and 1983.

-Elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003.

Additional Notes:

-Played as both a first baseman and a designated hitter throughout his career.

-Known for his switch-hitting ability, holding the record for most RBIs (1,917) among switch-hitters.

-Became a coach after his playing career, working with teams like the Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, and Los Angeles Dodgers.

Eddie Murray is well-deserving of his place in the Baseball Hall of Fame as one of the game's greats.