Dusty Baker, a baseball legend, will be honored by the Los Angeles Dodgers before Friday night’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Baker, who spent eight seasons with the team, played a pivotal role in leading the Dodgers to three National League pennants and the 1981 World Series championship. His contributions to the team will be celebrated as he is inducted into the Legends of Dodger Baseball.
During the pregame ceremony, Baker will throw the ceremonial first pitch and will be joined by his family members in making the iconic „It’s time for Dodger Baseball“ announcement. Additionally, the first 40,000 fans in attendance will receive a special Baker bobblehead as a token of appreciation for his time with the team.
Baker’s impact on the Dodgers was significant, as he hit 144 home runs, had 586 RBIs, and accumulated 1,144 hits during his tenure with the team. His standout performance in the 1977 season, where he hit a solo home run in his final at-bat to reach 30 home runs for the season, solidified his place in Dodgers history. Baker was also named the MVP of the 1977 National League Championship Series, showcasing his talent and leadership on the field.
In addition to his on-field achievements, Baker was recognized with accolades such as being selected as an All-Star in 1981 and 1982, receiving a Silver Slugger Award in 1980 and 1981, and earning a Gold Glove in 1981 for his defensive prowess. After leaving the Dodgers via free agency in 1983 to sign with the San Francisco Giants, Baker continued his baseball career before transitioning into a successful managerial role.
Baker’s managerial career began with the Giants in 1993, where he won three National League Manager of the Year awards and amassed over 2,000 wins, making him the first Black manager to achieve this milestone. His contributions to the sport have been recognized both on and off the field, solidifying his legacy as a baseball icon.
The Legends of Dodger Baseball was established in 2018 to honor Dodgers greats and their impact on the franchise. Baker’s induction into this prestigious group marks a significant milestone in his career and showcases his lasting influence on the Dodgers organization. The plaque honoring his achievements will be on permanent display at Dodger Stadium, ensuring that his legacy lives on for future generations of fans to appreciate.
In addition to his induction into the Legends of Dodger Baseball, Baker was recently honored with an induction into the Baseball Reliquary’s Shrine of the Eternals. This distinction recognizes individuals who have made game-changing contributions to baseball beyond statistical measures, highlighting their unique character and impact on the sport’s cultural landscape.
As the Dodgers kick off their three-day Alumni Weekend, the celebration of Baker’s legacy sets the stage for a weekend filled with nostalgia and appreciation for the team’s history. The Alumni Grand Reunion on Saturday will bring together former Dodgers from each decade since the team’s move to Los Angeles in 1958, while the induction of Walter O’Malley into the team’s Ring of Honor will pay tribute to the late owner’s lasting impact on the franchise.
Overall, Dusty Baker’s induction into the Legends of Dodger Baseball serves as a reminder of his remarkable career and enduring legacy in the world of baseball. His contributions to the sport, both as a player and a manager, have left an indelible mark on the Dodgers organization and the baseball community as a whole.