Dodgers Legend Davey Lopes, Base Stealing King, Dies at 80

Remembering the baseball great's legacy of speed, intelligence, and relentless competitiveness

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:21am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball player sliding into a base, with sharp planes of Dodger blue, white, and red creating a dynamic, multi-angled composition that captures the kinetic energy of the stolen base.The cubist deconstruction of a base-stealing legend captures the artistry and unpredictability that defined Davey Lopes' game.Los Angeles Today

Davey Lopes, a key member of the Dodgers' iconic infield in the 1970s and '80s, passed away at the age of 80 after battling Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Lopes was known for his mastery of the stolen base, setting franchise records with 418 steals and an 83.1% success rate. Beyond his on-field exploits, Lopes was also celebrated as a mentor and coach who left an indelible mark on the game of baseball.

Why it matters

Lopes' career challenges the modern focus on power hitting and home runs, reminding us of the beauty and importance of small ball tactics like the stolen base. His late-blooming success also raises questions about how we value older players in today's game.

The details

As part of the Dodgers' legendary infield alongside Steve Garvey, Bill Russell, and Ron Cey, Lopes set a franchise record with 1,134 games at second base. His 418 stolen bases as a Dodger place him second only to Maury Wills, but his 83.1% success rate is unparalleled. In 1975, Lopes set an MLB record with 28 consecutive steals without being caught, showcasing his blend of speed and intelligence. Lopes also made his mark in the postseason, hitting two home runs in Game 1 of the 1978 World Series against the Yankees.

  • Davey Lopes passed away on April 4, 2026 at the age of 80.
  • Lopes set the MLB record for consecutive stolen bases without being caught in 1975.

The players

Davey Lopes

A 16-year MLB veteran who spent the majority of his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Lopes was known as one of the greatest base stealers in baseball history.

Steve Garvey

A first baseman who played alongside Lopes as part of the Dodgers' iconic infield in the 1970s and '80s.

Bill Russell

A shortstop who played alongside Lopes as part of the Dodgers' iconic infield in the 1970s and '80s.

Ron Cey

A third baseman who played alongside Lopes as part of the Dodgers' iconic infield in the 1970s and '80s.

Maury Wills

The Dodgers' all-time leader in stolen bases, with Lopes ranking second on the franchise list.

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What they’re saying

“One of the greatest competitors I had the privilege to play with.”

— Larry Bowa, Former Teammate

“The best base-stealing coach we've ever had.”

— Ruben Amaro Jr., Former Phillies Executive

What’s next

Lopes' legacy as a player and coach will continue to be celebrated by the baseball community, with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame likely to be a topic of discussion in the coming years.

The takeaway

Davey Lopes' career serves as a reminder of the enduring value of speed, intelligence, and relentless competitiveness in baseball. His mastery of the stolen base and impact as a mentor challenge the modern game's focus on power hitting, inspiring a renewed appreciation for the art of small ball.