Dodgers Legend Davey Lopes, MLB Speedster, Dies at 80

The four-time All-Star and World Series champion was known for his base-stealing prowess and versatile play.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:11am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicts the explosive athletic movements and energy of a baseball player, with his features and uniform details blurred into dynamic brushstrokes.A dynamic illustration captures the electric energy and speed of baseball legend Davey Lopes, whose base-stealing prowess and versatile play left an indelible mark on the sport.Los Angeles Today

Davey Lopes, a legendary figure in Major League Baseball (MLB) who played 16 seasons primarily with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has passed away at the age of 80. Lopes was a four-time All-Star and World Series champion, known for his exceptional speed and base-stealing abilities that made him a game-changing player in the 1970s and 1980s.

Why it matters

Lopes' career transcended his role as a speedster, as he was a versatile player who contributed in multiple ways. His impact on the game went beyond just his statistics, as his speed and agility forced pitchers to be more cautious and opened up opportunities for his teammates. Lopes became a role model for young players, demonstrating that speed and athleticism could be just as valuable as power in baseball.

The details

Over his 16-season MLB career, Lopes compiled a .263 batting average with 1,671 hits, 155 home runs, and 614 RBIs. He led the National League in stolen bases twice, in 1975 and 1976, and finished his career with 557 stolen bases, the 26th-most in MLB history. Lopes was also a skilled defensive player, winning a Gold Glove in 1978. His speed and versatility were instrumental in the Dodgers' World Series championship in 1981.

  • Lopes played in MLB from 1972 to 1987.
  • He led the National League in stolen bases in 1975 and 1976.
  • Lopes won the World Series with the Dodgers in 1981.
  • Lopes passed away on April 10, 2026, at the age of 80.

The players

Davey Lopes

A four-time MLB All-Star and World Series champion, Lopes was known for his exceptional speed and base-stealing abilities, as well as his versatile play as a second baseman and outfielder.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The professional baseball team that Lopes played for during the majority of his 16-season MLB career, winning the World Series with the team in 1981.

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What they’re saying

“Davey Lopes was a true legend of the game, and his impact on baseball will never be forgotten. His speed and athleticism were unparalleled, and he inspired generations of players to come.”

— Dusty Baker, Former MLB Player and Manager

“Lopes was the epitome of what it meant to be a Dodger. His dedication, hustle, and love for the game were unmatched, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever wear the Dodger blue.”

— Sandy Koufax, Hall of Fame Pitcher, Los Angeles Dodgers

What’s next

The Dodgers organization is expected to hold a memorial service to honor Lopes' legacy and contributions to the team and the sport of baseball.

The takeaway

Davey Lopes' passing marks the end of an era in MLB, but his legacy as a speedster, versatile player, and role model will continue to inspire future generations of baseball players. His impact on the game went far beyond his impressive statistics, as he demonstrated that speed, agility, and strategic thinking could be just as valuable as power in the sport.