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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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