Davey Lopes: Who is Davey Lopes? Former Dodgers star and MLB coach passes away at 80
Davey Lopes is a former Major League Baseball player and longtime coach who is widely known for his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers. According to reports, he died due to complications related to Parkinson’s disease. Lopes was popular in the baseball community for his speed, instincts and long-standing contribution to the game both on and off the field.
Lopes spent his final days under medical care in Rhode Island and was “surrounded by family” at the time of his death, TMZ Sports reported.
Career Beginnings and Early Journey
Lopes was born and raised in Rhode Island and played college baseball at Iowa Wesleyan College and Washburn University in Kansas. He was first drafted by the San Francisco Giants in 1967 but decided not to sign with the team.
He later joined the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1968 MLB January Draft and made his Major League debut in 1972 at the age of 27, marking the beginning of a notable career.
Key Figure of the Dodgers’ Historic Era
Lopes became a key part of one of the most legendary fields in Dodgers history, playing alongside Steve Garvey, Ron Cey and Bill Russell. Together, they helped the team to four National League pennants in the 1970s and early 1980s.
He also played a vital role contributing to the Dodgers’ victory over the New York Yankees in the 1981 World Series, establishing his place in franchise history.
MLB Career Beyond Los Angeles
Following his successful run with the Dodgers, Lopes went on to play for the Oakland Athletics from 1982 to 1984, where he formed a strong base-stealing partnership with Rickey Henderson. Together they combined for 158 stolen bases, setting a major American League record.
He later played for the Chicago Cubs (1984–1986) and Houston Astros (1986–1987) and retired after the 1987 season. His career totals included 155 home runs, .263 batting average, 557 stolen bases and 1,812 games played.
Coaching Career in MLB Teams
After retiring as a player, Lopes remained active in baseball through coaching and managerial positions with multiple MLB organizations. He worked as a bench coach for the Texas Rangers, served as a first base coach for the Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres, and later managed the Milwaukee Brewers.
He also returned to coaching positions with the Padres, Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals, and earned a second World Series ring during the 2008 season with the Phillies.
Lopes later rejoined the Dodgers as first base coach and then ended his coaching career with the Washington Nationals in 2017.
Formal Regards and Statements
The Los Angeles Dodgers paid tribute to their former icon following the news of his death.
“The Dodgers mourn the loss of Davey Lopes, who passed away today at the age of 80,” the team said on Facebook. “Lopes was a member of the team’s record-setting infield in the 1970s and 1980s and was one of the best base stealers in MLB history. We extend our condolences to his family and friends.”
FAQ:
Q1. Who was Davey Lopes?
Davey Lopes was a former MLB player and coach best known for his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was known for his speed and base-stealing ability.
Q2. How did Davey Lopes die?
He passed away due to complications of Parkinson’s disease. Reports say he died surrounded by his family in Rhode Island.
