Davey Lopes

Davey Lopes

Davey Lopes was born on May 3rd, 1945

Full Name: David Forbes Lopes
Place of Birth: East Providence, Rhode Island
Profession: Baseball player, coach, manager
MLB Debut: 1969 for Los Angeles Dodgers
Notable Teams: Los Angeles Dodgers, Oakland Athletics
Position: Second baseman
World Series: 1981 champion
Coaching Career: Washington Nationals, Milwaukee Brewers

A former MLB player, coach, and manager, known for his speed and base-stealing prowess, as well as his successful managerial stint with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson

Davey Lopes: The Unstoppable Force in Baseball

Known for his lightning-fast speed, exceptional leadership, and unwavering dedication to the game, Davey Lopes is an American former second baseman and manager in Major League Baseball (MLB). With a career spanning over two decades, Lopes made a lasting impact on the sport, earning him a revered spot in baseball history.

Early Life and Career

Born on May 3, 1945, in Rhode Island, Lopes grew up with a passion for baseball. He played high school ball at La Salle Academy in Providence and later attended Iowa Wesleyan College and Washburn University in Kansas. The San Francisco Giants selected him in the eighth round of the 1967 MLB Draft, but he chose not to sign. Instead, he was taken by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second round of the 1968 MLB January Draft.

Rise to Fame

Lopes began his career in the Dodger organization as a reserved and quiet individual. However, under the guidance of Tommy Lasorda, he blossomed into an outspoken leader and catalyst on the field. Lasorda also played a crucial role in converting Lopes from an outfielder to a second baseman. After three seasons in Triple-A, Lopes made his major league debut for the Dodgers on September 22, 1972, at the age of 27.

He spent nine seasons with the Dodgers as their regular second baseman, forming an iconic infield quartet with Steve Garvey, Bill Russell, and Ron Cey. This group remained together for eight and a half seasons, earning them a reputation as one of the most enduring and successful infields in baseball history.

Managerial Career

After retiring as a player, Lopes transitioned into a managerial role, beginning with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2000. During his stint, he led the team to their first winning season in 15 years. Lopes' managerial career was marked by his emphasis on fundamentals, aggressive base running, and a relentless focus on winning.

Awards and Legacy

Lopes' achievements on and off the field have earned him numerous accolades. He was a four-time National League All-Star, won two Gold Glove Awards, and was named the National League Championship Series MVP in 1978. In 2014, Lopes was inducted into the Iowa Sports Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.

Today, Davey Lopes is revered as one of the greatest second basemen in baseball history, known for his tireless work ethic, exceptional leadership, and unwavering dedication to the game. His legacy continues to inspire generations of baseball players, managers, and fans alike.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Timeline
1945
Born in East Providence, Rhode Island
Davey Lopes was born on May 3, 1945, in East Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
1969
Started MLB career
Lopes started his Major League Baseball career in 1969, playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
1974
Stole 77 bases
Lopes stole 77 bases in 1974, setting a new single-season record for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
1981
Won World Series with Dodgers
Lopes won the World Series with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981, after playing in the postseason for the first time in his career.
2006
Coached for San Diego Padres
Lopes coached for the San Diego Padres in 2006, after retiring as a player and transitioning to a coaching career.
Davey Lopes

Davey Lopes Quiz

What position did Davey Lopes primarily play during his MLB career?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What was Davey Lopes baseball career like?
Davey Lopes played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball as a second baseman and outfielder, primarily with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs. He was a four-time All-Star and won a World Series championship with the Dodgers in 1981.
What was Davey Lopes managerial career like?
Davey Lopes managed the Milwaukee Brewers from 2000 to 2002 and later served as the first base coach for the Washington Nationals and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
What is Davey Lopes coaching style?
Davey Lopes is known for his emphasis on fundamentals, aggressive baserunning, and smart situational play. He is highly respected by his players and is considered one of the best base coaches in the game.
What awards has Davey Lopes won?
Davey Lopes won a World Series ring with the Dodgers in 1981 and was named the National League Manager of the Year in 2002 while managing the Brewers.
Is Davey Lopes a member of the Milwaukee Brewers Wall of Honor?
Yes, Davey Lopes was inducted into the Milwaukee Brewers Wall of Honor in 2014, recognizing his contributions to the team as a player and manager.

Related People:

Tommy Lasorda

98 Years Old

A baseball legend who won two World Series championships and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, known for his fiery personality and iconic Dodgers tenure.

Walter Alston

Born in 1911

Managed the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1954 to 1976, winning seven National League pennants and four World Series championships. Known for his calm and steady leadership style.

Joe Torre

85 Years Old

Legendary baseball figure who played, managed, and executive-led teams to multiple championships, earning a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Don Mattingly

65 Years Old

A legendary baseball player and manager, known for his impressive playing career with the New York Yankees and later managing the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Dusty Baker

76 Years Old

A legendary baseball player and manager who led three teams to the playoffs and won multiple division titles, known for his consistent success and iconic toothpick-chewing habit.

Steve Harvey

69 Years Old

A charismatic TV personality and comedian who hosts popular game shows and events, entertaining millions with his humor and wit.

Bill Russell

92 Years Old

Legendary basketball player and coach who won an unprecedented 11 championships in his 13-year career, including an unmatched eight in a row. He's a symbol of excellence and dominance in the sport.

Maury Wills

93 Years Old

A trailblazing shortstop who stole 586 bases, earning him the National League MVP award in 1962, and later became a manager, paving the way for future generations of players.