Hall of Fame MLB Manager Tommy Lasorda Dies at 93

Legendary Los Angeles Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda passed away earlier today at the age of 93. Many remember him as an exceptional ambassador for the game of baseball.

Lasorda was the Dodgers manager for 20 seasons (1976-1996). He won two World Series championships in 1981 and 1988. Tommy Lasorda also managed the Dodgers to four National League pennants and eight NL West division titles. He earned two Manager of the Year awards. Immediately following his managerial career, Lasorda had his No. 2 retired by the LA Dodgers and he was voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame that same year.

The Dodgers released a statement following the news of Tommy Lasorda’s passing. Here is an excerpt:

Regarded by many as baseball’s most popular ambassador, Lasorda spent 71 seasons in the Dodger organization with Dodger Blue running through his veins. He spent the last 14 as special advisor to the chairman.

Lasorda’s wish to see another Dodgers World Championship was fulfilled last October, when he traveled to Arlington, Texas to witness the Dodgers 3-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 6 of the World Series.

Thomas Charles Lasorda was born Sept. 22, 1927 in Norristown, PA.

Lasorda is survived by his wife of 70 years, Jo, who he married on April 14, 1950, their daughter, Laura, and granddaughter Emily Tess.

Los Angeles Dodgers statement via Twitter

Tommy Lasorda’s Career

A former pitcher, Tommy Lasorda played professionally for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Kansas City Athletics. After retiring from pitching in 1960, he worked in the Dodgers organization as a scout and minor league manager. Quickly rising through the ranks, the Dodgers named him the Major League manager in 1976. He remained at the helm for 20 seasons, finishing with 1,599 career victories.

After retiring from managing the Dodgers, Lasorda remained very involved in baseball. He managed the gold medal-winning USA Baseball team in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Many prominent members of the MLB community sent their condolences to the Lasorda family via social media. Vin Scully, another name synonymous with Dodgers baseball, recalls Lasorda’s distinct enthusiasm and determination to succeed.

Tributes continue to pour in for one of the most widely-loved figures in the baseball community. Tommy Lasorda left an indelible mark on the game of baseball and many of his protégés carry on his legacy.

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