42. Dodgers vs A's in the 1974 World Series

As the Dodgers get ready to play in the World Series this coming week, we look back at the Series they played in October of 1974 against the Oakland Athletics. It didn't go well for Los Angeles, but that didn't deter a young kid from South Pasadena who fell in love with the Dodgers as a 9-year old and has kept that love affair with the team for half a century. Mark Langill knew from a very young age that he wanted to be around baseball... and the Dodgers in particular. And so he became a sportswriter and covered the team he adored fora few years. But that wasn't enough for Langill. He wanted to be even closer to the team... a part of it if you will. And that's just what happened. The Dodgers hired him to be their team historian. Never has someone been more perfect for a position. Mark's recollection of Dodgers history is unparalleled. He can tell you about every start Don Drysdale had in August of 1968. He can tell you the date Maury Wills was traded away from the Dodgers. He can tell you what Tommy John's record was in 1974 before his season ended with a surgery that would be named after the Dodgers lefty. He can tell you more than you'll ever want to know... and he's the first to admit that he crosses that line enthusiastically. But in this case, he'll tell you about that '74 series when Mike Marshall picked off Herb Washington in Gm 2 to help secure the Dodgers lone win of the series.. He'll tell you about the throw Joe Ferguson made to nail Sal Bando at the plate in Game 1. He'll tell you about Tommy Lasorda wearing two different shoes while coaching third base. And he'll tell you how he told his favorite player, Jimmy Wynn, about a grand slam that Wynn hit that Mark never forgot... but the Toy Cannon sure did. Before there was Wikipedia, there was Mark Langill... and he's way more fun and interesting. It's time for Dodgers Baseball on the Past Our Prime podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices