Phillies Legend Shares Heartfelt Story After MLB Great Davey Lopes' Passing

Jimmy Rollins recounts a special moment that highlighted Lopes' willingness to teach the game of baseball.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:05am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball player sliding into a base, the action broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color that convey the raw athleticism and competitive spirit of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a baseball player's daring base steal, capturing the dynamic movement and energy of the game's most thrilling moments.San Diego Today

Former Philadelphia Phillies All-Star Jimmy Rollins shared a touching story about his relationship with the late Davey Lopes, who passed away at the age of 80. Rollins recalled a conversation in 2002 when Lopes, then the Milwaukee Brewers manager, gave Rollins advice about stealing bases that proved invaluable. Lopes was remembered as one of the greatest base stealers of his era, swiping 558 bags during his 16-year MLB career, and he made a lasting impact as a coach with the Phillies from 2007-2010, including their 2008 World Series championship team.

Why it matters

Lopes' passing is a significant loss for the baseball community, as he was not only a legendary player but also a respected coach who mentored many young players throughout his career. Rollins' story highlights Lopes' generosity in sharing his baseball knowledge and his ability to connect with players, which made him a beloved figure in the game.

The details

Rollins recounted a story from 2002 when Lopes, then the Milwaukee Brewers manager, approached him during batting practice and gave him advice about stealing bases on a 3-0 count, which Rollins then successfully executed later in the game. Rollins said that from that point forward, Lopes became 'my guy' and that he felt Lopes' pride in passing along that knowledge. Lopes finished his playing career with 558 stolen bases, good for 26th all-time, and he went on to coach for several MLB teams, including the Phillies from 2007-2010, where he won a World Series championship in 2008.

  • Lopes passed away on Wednesday, April 9, 2026 at the age of 80.
  • Rollins shared the story about his conversation with Lopes in 2002 when Lopes was the Brewers manager.

The players

Davey Lopes

A former MLB All-Star second baseman who played for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Oakland Athletics, Chicago Cubs, and Houston Astros. He finished his 16-year playing career with 558 stolen bases, good for 26th all-time. Lopes also had coaching stints with several MLB teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies from 2007-2010, where he won a World Series championship in 2008.

Jimmy Rollins

A former Philadelphia Phillies All-Star shortstop who played for the team from 2000-2014. Rollins is sharing a personal story about his relationship with the late Davey Lopes, who was a coach for the Phillies during Rollins' time with the team.

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What they’re saying

“'The first time we ever spoke was in 2002 while he was managing the Brewers. He called me over during our bp in Milwaukee. I had no idea what he wanted but I knew the name Davey Lopes and I didn't hesitate. I'm not even sure he said hello lol, but I remember the conversation like it was yesterday. 'You ever thought about stealing 3-0?' My face cringed because I didn't comprehend and I replied, 'what… no!' 'Why not, it's the easiest county to steal on, pitcher isn't paying you any attention because all he wants to do is throw a strike. No slide steps on 3-0.' I looked at him with the oh shit your right look and said 'okay!'”

— Jimmy Rollins, Former Philadelphia Phillies All-Star

“'Around the fifth inning of the game I get on 1st and what do you know, the count goes 3-0. I look to their dugout and Davey is staring at me like what are you going to do? I was looking to get permission to run after feeling like I had the world's best kept secret given to me by the opposing manager. Davey nodded so I knew there wouldn't be any retaliation and I took off. Slid in safe with no throw. I looked back to him and although he couldn't show it I felt his pride in passing that knowledge on to another young brother. From that point forward Davey was my guy! You're already missed my friend. Mighty Mouse.'”

— Jimmy Rollins, Former Philadelphia Phillies All-Star

The takeaway

Davey Lopes' passing is a significant loss for the baseball community, as he was not only a legendary player but also a respected coach who made a lasting impact on many players like Jimmy Rollins through his willingness to share his deep knowledge of the game. Lopes' story highlights the importance of mentorship and the lasting impressions that can be made when experienced veterans take the time to guide and teach the next generation.