The Los Angeles Dodgers are not only solidifying their status as a dominant force in baseball but are also establishing themselves as a sustainable powerhouse within Major League Baseball (MLB). With an unparalleled willingness to invest resources compared to other teams and an expanding fanbase in Japan, the Dodgers appear to be positioning themselves as the new “evil empire” of the sport, a title previously held by the New York Yankees for nearly a century.
While the Dodgers are experiencing a new era of success, their history is rich with championship victories and legendary players wearing Dodger blue, both in Brooklyn and Los Angeles. A recent ranking by The Sporting News highlights the top 15 players in Dodgers history, evaluating them across nine categories using a points system to create a definitive hierarchy.
Orel Hershiser, known for his phenomenal performance during the Dodgers’ 1988 championship run, comes in at number 15. Accolades such as the 1988 World Series MVP and the NL Cy Young Award emphasize his significance to the franchise despite injuries that hindered his later years.
Following him is Hall of Famer Mike Piazza, who, while perhaps more famously associated with the Mets, had a stellar offensive stretch during his time in Los Angeles. His hitting prowess set several offensive records, helping him earn a spot at number 14. Dazzy Vance, a legendary pitcher from the early 20th century, ranks 13th, recognized for leading the league in strikeouts multiple times and winning the NL MVP in 1924.
Mookie Betts made the list at number 12. Since joining the Dodgers in 2020, Betts has been a key part of two championship wins and continues to solidify his legacy with impressive performances and both offensive and defensive accolades.
The rankings also showcase beloved figures like Steve Garvey, Fernando Valenzuela, and Jackie Robinson—heroes of the Dodgers’ lore, each contributing significantly to the team’s historical success and cultural significance.
At the pinnacle of the list, Sandy Koufax stands as the most revered Dodger, having dominated the league in his final five seasons and securing three World Series championships. Alongside him in the top tier is Clayton Kershaw, who has had an extraordinary career marked by multiple Cy Young Awards and unwavering commitment to the franchise.
The legacy of these players speaks not just to their individual skills, but to the Dodgers’ enduring impact on baseball. As the team continues to foster its formidable presence, the hope is that they will inspire the next generation of players and attract talent from across the globe, reinforcing their position as a cornerstone of MLB history.