Manny Mota became the latest member to be inducted into the “Legends of Dodger Baseball” class, joining Steve Garvey, Kirk Gibson, Don Newcombe, Fernando Valenzuela and Maury Wills. Orel Hershiser will be enshrined on July 29.
The pregame ceremony was hosted by Dodgers broadcaster and Manny’s son, José Mota, and featured family members, Jaime Jarrín, Orel Hershiser, Steve Garvey, Adrián Beltré, former owner Peter O’Malley, and Alfonso Rodríguez Zorrilla, the Consul General of the Dominican Republic on the West Coast of the United States.
Beltré presented Mota with the type of bicycle he became known for riding during Spring Training. Garvey and Jarrín revealed the plaque that will be on display on the top deck at Dodger Stadium.
The ceremony concluded with Mota throwing out the first pitch to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, and his family making the “It’s time for Dodger baseball” traditional announcement.
A Dominican Republic native, Mota has been part of the Dodgers organization for more than 50 years as a player, coach and broadcaster. He was the longest-tenured coach in Dodgers franchise history, with his tenure spanning from 1980-2018.
“It surprised me a lot, because I wasn’t expecting this,” Mota said of being inducted into the Legends of Dodger Baseball. “I’m so grateful for the organization doing this.
“But I don’t consider myself a legend. I just consider myself a player who left everything on the field and gave 100%.”
Mota finished his career as the MLB leader with 150 pinch-hits all-time. He was beloved by Dodgers fans and holds equal appreciation for the organization.
“Every moment here at Dodger Stadium has been a special moment for me,” Mota said. “I had an opportunity to play in World Series, as coach be in two championships, and I enjoyed every moment with this organization. Every moment I was here was special to me.”
Manny Mota reflects on Dodgers trade
Mota began his career with the San Francisco Giants and also played for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Montreal Expos prior to being traded to the Dodgers in 1969.
“When they made the trade with Montreal, Maury (Wills) was the big piece,” Mota recalled. “They threw me in the deal, and that was the only way Montreal could make the deal. So Maury brought me here, and I’m still here. So thank you to Maury and Mr. Campanis. I enjoyed every minute here.
“Every second, every hour. L.A. is my home away from home. I’m so happy and thrilled to be here for more than half a century.”
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