Four Fantastic First Basemen in Dodgers History

On the cusp of another Opening Day, it is always interesting to look back at baseball’s long and storied history. The Los Angeles Dodgers are an integral part of the national pastime. One of the positions on the diamond that is worth a Dodger debate is first base. This is a snapshot of some of the greatest to hold down the three-hole on the field. Here are four great Dodgers first basemen to consider.

Four of the Greatest First Basemen in Dodgers History

The Old Timer

It’s been over a century since Jake Daubert played. One has to go back to World War I, in fact. However, he still amassed several impressive statistics. Daubert holds the record for the most sacrifices at 392. Yes, it is a different game now, but 392 sacrifices are of note because it is very unlikely that anyone will touch that record. Probably more impressive than that is the back-to-back batting titles in 1913-14 that Daubert won. He is one of only three Dodgers to do so in franchise history. The two others were Willie Keeler and Tommy Davis. His accomplishments on the field are certainly distinguished and rare.

“Mr. Clean”

Steve Garvey was the cornerstone of the Dodgers’ infield in the 1970s and 1980s. He is a study in longevity and excellence. He appeared in the All-Star Game 10 times. The only player besides Bill Freehan not linked to steroid use, to appear in the Midsummer Classic and not be enshrined in Cooperstown. He holds the National League record for most starts at first base with 1,307, a feat that will likely remain intact. He hit for a .300 batting average or above for seven seasons, and he was even better in postseason play, with an OPS of .918. Garvey also had over 200 hits in six seasons as well, cementing himself in Dodger history for years to come.

The “Quiet Man”

Gil Hodges is considered by many to be the greatest first baseman in Dodgers’ history. Honestly, it’s hard to argue. He has a career mark of 43.3 in Wins Above Replacement. His glove work at a crucial corner of the infield was superb, and he had three Gold Glove Awards to prove it. (They began handing out the premier defensive award in the middle of Hodges’ career). His ability to hit for power with a total of 370 home runs was only surpassed by his incredible knack for driving in runs.