A member of the Los Angeles Dodgers for the entirety of his Major League career, Bill Russell began his Major League career in the Outfield, but it was when he took over for Maury Wills at Shortstop in 1972 that his value became apparent.

Russell remained L.A.’s starting Shortstop for well over a decade, and defensively he was in the upper class.  He led the NL in Defensive bWAR in 1973, and four other times was in the top ten.  Russell also led the NL in Assists in '73, with three additional years seeing him finish third.

Russell had limited power with his bat, but he collected 1,926 Hits over his career with a respectable .263 Batting Average.  A three-time All-Star, Russell was a key figure in the Dodgers' 1981 World Series win.

It's that time of year again. The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament is right around the corner, and fans everywhere are wondering which team has the best shot at winning it all. We've got the latest March Madness odds, so read on to see who the experts pick to take home the title in 2023.

Houston

Houston basketball has had a strong season, and all eyes are on them to win the coveted March Madness 2023. With the best odds of victory at +600, it's clear why they are favored to win the tournament. While other teams certainly have excellent players and valuable experience, Houston has demonstrated impressive tenacity and unparalleled skills, which give them an edge in this competition—especially considering their deep understanding of team play.

Their strong defense makes them formidable to any opponent. So as Houston prepares for the big game and against the toughest competition, many experts agree that they have what it takes to take home another championship title for the city.

Kansas

The Kansas basketball team looks like one of the strongest contenders for the championship title this year, with superior odds currently standing at +750. Led by experienced veterans and emerging stars, the team has far exceeded expectations and boasts a roster that gives other teams plenty to worry about.

Team chemistry is clearly on display in every game, and the Kansas statistical powerhouses have consistently outperformed opponents. With such strong form, it's no surprise that fans already anticipate a victory for their beloved team. The stakes are high, and we can only wait in anticipation to see if the championship title will end up coming home to Kansas this season.

Purdue

The Purdue Boilermakers have had some impressive performances so far this season and are quickly emerging as potential contenders to watch. Despite being one of the longest shots on the betting boards with +1200 odds, they boast a solid roster and have already upset several top-tier opponents within the Big Ten Conference.

As they gain confidence and sharpen their skills throughout the remainder of regular season play, don’t be surprised if you start hearing more about the Purdue Boilermakers closer to tip-off!

Arizona

The Arizona Wildcats are certainly making some waves this season, and with their impressive record so far, they’re right up there amongst the top contenders. With odds of +1300 to win the championship this season, they come in at fourth place - a testament to the team’s competitiveness and determination across all positions.

While the competition is tough, this squad has already gone up against some of the nation's most formidable opponents and emerged victorious, so it wouldn’t be too surprising if they continue to make a splash in conference play. Time will tell if these hard-working Cats have what it takes to make a serious run for the title.

Connecticut

Connecticut has a real chance to go all the way at this year’s competition, with odds of +1400 for them to take home the title. Considering its track record, Connecticut stands out as one of the most promising contenders for this championship.

Famous for its impressive lineup of experienced players, a strong coaching staff, and an emphasis on both skill development and team spirit, it's not hard to see why they are in the running. While they will undoubtedly face stiff competition in 2023, Connecticut is certainly one squad you should watch closely throughout their journey.

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 came into his own in the 1955 World Series, winning the MVP of a 2-0 record and a 1.00 ERA over the Yankees.  Podres had arrived, but he had to take a year off for military service, though he picked up right where he left off upon his return.

Podres led the NL in ERA (2.66), Shutouts (6), and WHIP (1.082) in what was arguably his finest season in baseball.  He was still an integral player for years to come as the franchise moved to Los Angeles, earning All-Star trips in 1958, 1960, and 1962.

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 that time, he was no longer a valuable member of the rotation.

With the Dodgers, Podres had a record of 136-104 with 1,331 Strikeouts.

Dolph Camilli began his Major League career with the Chicago Cubs, but it was his second team, the Philadelphia Phillies, where he proved that he was an everyday player.  The Dodgers took notice and traded for him, feeling that he had another level in him.  They were right.

Becoming a Dodger in 1938, Camilli led the NL in Walks that year and did so again in 1939, his first All-Star Game season.  Camilli continued to smack Home Runs, belting at least 23 in his first two years in Brooklyn, with the latter two years seeing the First Baseman finish 12^th in MVP voting, but the best was still ahead of him.

Camilli won the 1941 MVP when he led the NL in Home Runs (34) and RBIs (120) while going to his second All-Star Game.  He had another good season in 1942, but the Dodgers saw that he was aging out, and he was traded to the New York Giants during the 1943 Season.  Camilli refused to report to the Giants and would only play one more half-season in the Majors with the Red Sox in 1945.

With the Dodgers, Camilli batted .270 with 139 Home Runs and 809 Hits.