Gil Hodges

Gil Hodges was a cornerstone of the Brooklyn Dodgers, a beloved figure whose leadership, humility, and power at the plate made him one of the most respected players of his time. A Gold Glove caliber first baseman and eight-time All-Star, Hodges hit over 370 home runs in his career and was a key part of the Dodgers’ 1955 World Series championship. Beyond his statistics, Hodges embodied the stoic, team first ethic that defined the Dodgers’ postwar dominance.

Jackie Robinson admired Hodges’ integrity, and their strong working relationship was critical to keeping the team united through the many trials of racial integration. Hodges led by example, reinforcing through action the principles of fairness and equality. After his playing career, Hodges managed the 1969 New York Mets to one of the most improbable World Series championships in history, earning admiration as a leader who could bring out the best in his players. Posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2022, Hodges is remembered not only for his home runs and glove work, but as a quiet leader who helped bridge the racial divide in a transformative era of American sports.