A four-time Gold Glove Award-winning catcher who played 14 seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, known for his strong defensive skills and handling of Hall of Fame pitchers .
John Roseboro, a four-time All-Star player, is widely regarded as one of the best defensive catchers of the 1960s, winning two Gold Glove Awards during his illustrious career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He is perhaps most iconic for his role in one of the most violent incidents in baseball history, when San Francisco Giants pitcher Juan Marichal struck him in the head with a bat during a game in 1965.
Roseboro was born on May 13, 1933, in Ashland, Ohio, to Cecil Geraldine (née Lowery) and John Roseboro Sr. He had a younger brother, Jim, who played football as a halfback at Ohio State University. Roseboro attended Ashland High School, where he played both baseball and football, eventually earning a football scholarship to Central State University.
Roseboro was spotted by Dodgers scout Hugh Alexander while working out with the baseball team, despite having poor grades that made him ineligible to play. Alexander was impressed and invited him to try out for the Brooklyn Dodgers when they came to play in Cincinnati. Roseboro was signed as an amateur free agent before the 1952 season and began his professional baseball career with the Class D Sheboygan Indians of the Wisconsin State League.
Roseboro's minor league career was marked by impressive performances, including a .365 batting average with Sheboygan in 1952, which earned him a promotion to the Class C Great Falls Electrics of the Pioneer League in 1953. However, he was drafted into the United States Army, forcing him to miss a significant period of his career. After serving in the Army, Roseboro made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1957.
Roseboro went on to play 11 seasons with the Dodgers, serving as the team's starting catcher in four World Series, including three championship victories. During his time with the Dodgers, he established himself as a skilled defender, earning two Gold Glove Awards and four All-Star selections.
One of the most memorable, albeit controversial, moments of Roseboro's career came on August 22, 1965, when he was struck in the head by Juan Marichal's bat during a game between the Dodgers and the San Francisco Giants. The incident sparked a benches-clearing brawl and remains one of the most infamous moments in baseball history.
After retiring as a player, Roseboro went on to coach for several teams, including the Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Boston Red Sox. He passed away on August 16, 2002, at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest defensive catchers in baseball history.
99 Years Old
Legendary center fielder and iconic broadcaster, known for his impressive home run hitting and charismatic commentary style. He's a beloved figure in baseball history, with a lasting impact on the sport.
Born in 1918
Hall of Fame shortstop and pioneering broadcaster who brought excitement and analysis to baseball games. Known for his smooth fielding and charismatic commentary style.
Born in 1924
A baseball legend who played in four World Series and managed the 1969 Miracle Mets to a championship, earning him a spot in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Born in 1926
First African American to win the Rookie of the Year, Cy Young, and MVP awards, breaking baseball's color barrier and paving the way for future generations.
Born in 1922
A five-tool player and Brooklyn Dodgers legend, known for his strong throwing arm and clutch hitting. He won two National League batting titles and was a seven-time All-Star.
Born in 1921
Hall of Fame catcher and eight-time All-Star, known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership on the Brooklyn Dodgers during the 1940s and 1950s.
90 Years Old
Legendary left-handed pitcher and Hall of Famer, known for his incredible fastball and curveball, as well as his courageous decision to sit out a World Series game due to religious beliefs.
