1980 Los Angeles Dodgers

1980 Los Angeles Dodgers / Franchise: Los Angeles Dodgers / BR Team Page

Record: 92-71, Finished 2nd in NL Western Division (1980 NL)

Managed by Tommy Lasorda

Coaches: Red Adams, Monty Basgall, Mark Cresse, Manny Mota and Danny Ozark

Ballpark: Dodger Stadium

History, Comments, Contributions

Though they lost a season-ending one-game playoff to the Houston Astros, 7-1, the 1980 Los Angeles Dodgers will be remembered for the thrilling comeback to tie the Astros at the end of the season. The Dodgers were three games back going into the final series in L.A. The Dodgers won all three by scores of 3-2, 2-1, and 4-3 consecutively, with outstanding offensive heroics by Joe Ferguson and Ron Cey. Don Sutton saved the finale in a rare relief appearance - a signature moment and fitting tribute to his longevity and excellence as a Dodger, before joining the Astros as a free agent in 1981.

The final stretch of the season also saw the first appearance in a Dodgers uniform of young Fernando Valenzuela, who gave up no runs in 17 2/3 innings, won two games and saved one. This was only a preview of the great season he would have as a rookie in 1981.

Awards and Honors

• All-Stars: Steve Garvey, Davey Lopes, Jerry Reuss, Bill Russell, Reggie Smith and Bob Welch
• NL Rookie of the Year Award: Steve Howe
• NL Comeback Player of the Year: Jerry Reuss
• NL Silver Slugger Award: Dusty Baker (OF)