The Los Angeles Dodgers, an American baseball team, is one of the most popular teams in the world of baseball. The team is based in Los Angeles but had their beginnings in Brooklyn where they played for more than 60 seasons.
There are a lot of reasons why the Dodgers are always on the list of the top teams of baseball. But one of the major reasons for their popularity is their status as 7-time World Series champions.
We’ve dug a little deeper to learn more about this popular team. Up next we’re going to tell you about their history, achievements as well as the people who contributed a lot to their team, next
The Dodgers History
This team was established in Brooklyn in the year 1883. They joined the National League in 1890 as the Brooklyn Bridegrooms, and then changed it to the Grays, the Robins, the Superbas, and eventually settled on the Dodgers in 1932.
Their biggest rivals during the 1940s to mid-1950s were the New York Yankees. the two teams faced each other seven times in the World Series. The Dodgers finally got their first winning title in 1955.
They accomplished 68 seasons in Brooklyn before they settled in Dodger Stadium in 1962.
Achievements Over the Years
From the Dodger’s first title in 1955, another milestone was achieved shortly after in 1956. That milestone was when one of their players, Don Newcombe, won the New League MVP and the CY Young Award in both seasons.
Their success continued when they won the 1959 World Series. There were remarkable events that happened in the 1960s when Don Drysdale and Sandy Koufax got two more titles in 1963 and 1965.
In total, they won seven World Series titles, 24 New League pennants, 14 New League MVP awards, 12 Cy Young Awards, and 18 Rookie of the Year Awards.
With their achievements, they are considered one of the most popular Major League Baseball teams where they enjoy large fan support.
Who Are Their Best Players?
Sandy Koufax
This player was renowned as the best pitcher in baseball history where he pitched for 12 seasons for the Dodgers. He became the youngest player to be elected to a Baseball Hall of Fame.
The peak of the career of Sandy Koufax was in 1961 to 1966 where he became an all-star for six seasons, won three Cy Young Awards, and was the National League’s Most Valuable Player in 1963.
Unfortunately, he suffered arthritis and ended his career prematurely at the young age of 30.
Jackie Robinson
It was in 1947 when Jackie Robinson had his debut with the Dodgers. He was the first black Major League Baseball player who played in the modern era.
As the first black man who was able to play in the major game, he was effective in ending the racial segregation in this sport. With this, he broke the barrier between the non-African American and African American players.
He was introduced to be the Hall of Fame in 1962, making him the first black person who received this honor.
Don Drysdale
He was a right-handed pitcher that garnered multiple awards such as the Hall of Famer in 1984, Cy Young Award in 1962 with over 209 wins. What made him stand out is that he can effectively intimidate hitters as his trick to be on top of the battle.
Conclusion
The Dodgers are a living legacy and they show us that with some real grit and perseverance, anything is possible. Patience, determination, and strength also play key factors in their baseball success throughout the years.
