Orel Hershiser is a name that resonates deeply in the world of baseball. Known for his unparalleled pitching career and his incredible achievements on the mound, Hershiser’s legacy has left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball (MLB). From his remarkable record of scoreless innings to his World Series heroics, Orel Hershiser’s journey through the MLB is one of dedication, triumph, and persistence.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on September 16, 1958, in Buffalo, New York, Orel Hershiser’s journey to becoming one of the most respected pitchers in baseball started early. Growing up, he showed a passion for sports, excelling in baseball during his high school years. His talent on the mound was evident, and it earned him a spot on the Bowling Green State University baseball team. After his college years, he was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 17th round of the 1979 MLB Draft.
His debut came in 1983, and although it wasn’t marked by immediate stardom, Hershiser steadily honed his skills and earned his place as a regular starting pitcher for the Dodgers. Over time, he would become an essential part of the team and one of the most feared pitchers in the National League.
The Unforgettable 1988 Season
Without a doubt, the year that defined Orel Hershiser’s career was 1988. During this remarkable season, Hershiser etched his name into the history books with a series of awe-inspiring performances. Most notably, he set an MLB record for consecutive scoreless innings pitched — a staggering 59 innings in a row, surpassing the previous record held by the legendary Don Drysdale.
This incredible achievement was just the beginning of a season that saw Hershiser dominate both during the regular season and the postseason. He finished the regular season with a 23-8 record and a 2.26 ERA. His dominance didn’t stop there. In the postseason, Hershiser was nothing short of heroic. He was named the 1988 World Series MVP, where he helped lead the Dodgers to victory, contributing to their first World Series championship since 1981. His performance in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) also earned him the NLCS MVP award.
1988 remains a pinnacle of pitching excellence, and Orel Hershiser’s achievements during this year are widely regarded as some of the greatest in baseball history.
Orel Hershiser Post-1988 Career and Later Years
After his historic 1988 season, Hershiser continued to pitch effectively for several years. Although he faced the challenges of injuries and the inevitable wear and tear that comes with a long career, he remained an effective starter into the mid-1990s. Hershiser spent time with the Cleveland Indians and had a brief stint with the San Francisco Giants and the New York Mets.
He was a key contributor to the Indians’ 1995 World Series run, showcasing his veteran leadership. Despite no longer being the dominant force he was in 1988, Hershiser’s career continued to be marked by his professionalism and consistency. He retired from professional baseball in 2000, having spent 18 years in the Major Leagues.
Orel Hershiser Legacy and Hall of Fame Consideration
Though Orel Hershiser’s career was filled with remarkable statistics, awards, and achievements, one question still lingers in the minds of baseball fans: why is Orel Hershiser not in the Hall of Fame?
Hershiser’s case for Cooperstown is often debated. Despite his career accomplishments, including his Cy Young Award, World Series MVP, and three All-Star selections, he has not yet been inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. His total of 204 career wins and a 3.48 ERA falls short of some of the traditional benchmarks for Hall of Fame pitchers, but his peak performance, particularly during the 1988 season, makes him a strong contender for future induction through special committees.
While Hershiser’s absence from the Hall of Fame is still a point of contention, his impact on the game of baseball remains undeniable. His legacy is secure, even if a plaque in Cooperstown is not yet part of his career.
The Collector Dream Orel Hershiser’s Baseball Cards
For baseball card collectors, Orel Hershiser is a name that carries significant value. His cards, particularly from his peak years, are highly sought after. The 1988 Topps Orel Hershiser card is one of the most recognized and collected cards in the hobby, and his cards from 1985, 1986, and 1989 also hold strong value among fans.
The market for Hershiser’s autographed baseballs and memorabilia is equally strong, with collectors eager to add signed jerseys, baseballs, and cards to their collections. While the exact value of these items can fluctuate, an autographed card or signed baseball from Hershiser’s career remains a prized possession for many fans.
Orel Hershiser Personal Life and After Baseball
After his retirement from baseball, Hershiser remained involved in the sport, working as a television broadcaster, pitching coach, and even appearing in celebrity charity events. He has also made appearances at Dodgers games, where he is a beloved figure for his contributions to the team and the sport.
In terms of his personal life, Hershiser has been married twice and has children. He has kept much of his personal life private, but his dedication to his family and his work outside baseball has been evident throughout his career.
Orel Hershiser Today
Today, Orel Hershiser enjoys a career as an analyst and broadcaster, often providing commentary on MLB games and sharing his insights into pitching and the game’s strategy. Although he is no longer on the field, his presence in baseball remains significant, and he continues to inspire new generations of pitchers with his stories of perseverance and success.
In 2023, Hershiser was inducted into the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Ring of Honor, cementing his place as one of the team’s all-time greats. His legacy with the Dodgers is secure, and his contributions to the sport will not be forgotten.
Conclusion
Orel Hershiser’s career is a testament to what it means to be a baseball great. From his record-breaking streak of scoreless innings to his World Series MVP award, his achievements on the field are a reflection of his immense talent, hard work, and dedication to the game. Whether or not Hershiser is inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, his place in baseball history is secure, and his legacy as one of the finest pitchers to ever take the mound will endure for generations to come.
