Johnny Podres was one of the most successful southpaws in Dodgers history, especially when you look at the postseason.
Debuting for Brooklyn in 1953, Podres became a forever Dodgers star during the 1955 World Series. After a modest regular season, he won both of his starts against the Yankees. His most historic moment came in Game 7, where he pitched a 2-0 shutout at Yankee Stadium, securing Brooklyn's first and only world championship. This performance earned him the inaugural World Series MVP Award.
In 1957, following a one-year period of military service, he returned to lead the National League in several efficiency categories. He recorded a 2.66 ERA and six shutouts, concluding the season with a league-best 1.082 WHIP. As the franchise transitioned to Los Angeles, he continued to be a key member of the pitching staff, earning three consecutive All-Star selections (1958, 1960, 1962). His role in the rotation was instrumental during the team’s relocation to the West Coast. In 1961, he achieved a significant milestone in his career by securing 18 wins, the highest in the league, with a .783 winning percentage.
Sandy Koufax had become the undisputed ace of the Dodgers staff, but Podres was still a valuable commodity, with solid contributions in L.A.’s 1959 and 1965 Championships. Podres was traded to Detroit during the 1966 Season, but by then, he was no longer the pitcher he had been.
With the Dodgers, Podres had a record of 136-104 with 1,331 Strikeouts.
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