Davey Lopes, part of Dodgers' long-running infield, dies at age 80

Davey Lopes, part of Dodgers' long-running infield, dies at age 80

Los Angeles Times sports

Key Points:

  • Davey Lopes, a key second baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers' historic infield and a four-time All-Star, died at age 80, the Dodgers announced. He played 16 major league seasons, primarily with the Dodgers, and later served as a coach for multiple MLB teams, including the Dodgers and Phillies.
  • Lopes was known for his exceptional base-stealing ability, winning two stolen base titles and setting a postseason record with 10 stolen bases in 10 attempts during the 1981 World Series, which the Dodgers won. He stole 557 bases in his career with an 83% success rate, one of the best in MLB history.
  • Born and raised in a challenging environment in East Providence, Rhode Island, Lopes overcame adversity with the help of a mentor and excelled in both baseball and basketball at Washburn University before being drafted by the Dodgers in 1968.
  • After retiring as a player in 1987, Lopes had a lengthy coaching career, including managing the Milwaukee Brewers from 2000 to 2002, and contributing to the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship as a baserunning advisor despite battling prostate cancer that year.
  • Lopes is remembered for his leadership, work ethic, and impact on the game, both on and off the field, and is survived by six siblings.

Trending Business

Trending Technology

Trending Health