Grady Little is best known for his managerial stints with the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers, as well as his infamous decision to leave pitcher Pedro Martinez in the game during the 2003 American League Championship Series. This pivotal moment in baseball history has become an enduring part of Little's legacy, but there's more to this veteran manager than just one call.
Before stepping into the managerial role, Little had a brief playing career as a catcher in the minor leagues. He was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 1968 and played for five seasons, posting a .207 batting average with two home runs and 37 runs batted in. After serving in the Marine reserves in 1969, Little retired from playing in 1973.
Little's coaching career began in 1971 as a player-coach for the West Haven Yankees. He went on to serve as a coach for the Padres, Red Sox, and Indians from 1996 to 2001, before landing his first managerial role with the Boston Red Sox in 2002.
In his second season with the Red Sox, Little led the team to a 95-67 record and an appearance in the 2003 American League Championship Series against the New York Yankees. Although they ultimately lost the series, Little's leadership was instrumental in the team's success that year.
Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS is still talked about today, and unfortunately for Little, it's often remembered for all the wrong reasons. With the Red Sox holding a 5-2 lead in the eighth inning, Little chose to leave Pedro Martinez in the game, despite showing signs of fatigue. The Yankees went on to tie the score and eventually win in extra innings, leaving Little to face criticism for his decision.
After leaving the Red Sox, Little managed the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2006 to 2007. He has since worked in the front office of the Pittsburgh Pirates and served as the Head of Baseball Operations and Head Coach for the Varsity Baseball team at Hickory Grove Christian School in Charlotte, NC.
Little has been inducted into the Kinston, North Carolina, Professional Baseball Hall of Fame (2001), Charlotte Baseball Hall of Fame (1985), and the Hagerstown Suns Hall of Fame (2009). His contributions to the game have left a lasting impact on the world of baseball.
Today, Little is retired and living in his hometown of Charlotte, NC, with his wife. Despite the ups and downs of his career, he remains a respected figure in the baseball community, known for his dedication and passion for the game.
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