In an exciting development for Dodgers fans, the Los Angeles Dodgers have announced that legendary pitcher Orel Hershiser will return to the organization in a new role as the team’s bench coach. Hershiser, who last played for the Dodgers in 2000 and has been a beloved figure in the franchise’s history, brings an intimate understanding of the Dodgers’ culture and values. His return strengthens an already elite coaching staff as he takes on an essential role beside manager Dave Roberts.
Hershiser’s Legacy and Return to the Dodgers
Orel Hershiser is best remembered for his dominant pitching performances with the Dodgers in the late 1980s, especially his remarkable 1988 season, where he won the Cy Young Award and led the Dodgers to a World Series championship. His 59 consecutive scoreless innings pitched in that season set an MLB record and remains one of the greatest feats in baseball history. Hershiser’s return as bench coach is expected to bring that same level of intensity, knowledge, and experience that characterized his playing career.
Role as Bench Coach
As bench coach, Hershiser will play a vital role in supporting Dave Roberts with game strategy, pitcher-batter matchups, and day-to-day decision-making. His extensive experience as a player and broadcaster gives him a unique perspective that blends technical analysis with practical insights on player mentality and game strategy. He will also act as a mentor to young pitchers, bringing decades of wisdom to the team’s pitching staff.
Dodgers Front Office and Coaching Leadership
Hershiser’s addition to the coaching staff reinforces the Dodgers’ commitment to blending expertise from seasoned professionals with cutting-edge analytics and player development. Here’s a snapshot of the key Dodgers leadership and coaching team alongside whom Hershiser will work:
Stan Kasten – President and CEO
Overseeing the Dodgers’ business and baseball operations, Kasten’s leadership has been instrumental in driving the team’s success since joining in 2012.
Andrew Friedman – President of Baseball Operations
A central architect of the Dodgers’ current roster, Friedman is known for his analytical approach to player acquisitions, trades, and development.
Brandon Gomes – General Manager
As GM, Gomes oversees day-to-day baseball operations and collaborates closely with Friedman on building and maintaining the Dodgers’ roster.
Dave Roberts – Manager
Roberts has led the Dodgers since 2016, securing multiple postseason appearances and a World Series title in 2020. He will work closely with Hershiser on game strategy.
Mark Prior – Pitching Coach
Prior, who has been with the Dodgers since 2018, will benefit from Hershiser’s insight on pitching, helping develop the Dodgers’ highly-regarded rotation.
Robert Van Scoyoc – Hitting Coach
Known for his analytics-driven approach, Van Scoyoc has helped craft a high-powered Dodgers offense, focusing on swing refinement and approach adjustments.
Josh Bard – Former Bench Coach
Bard’s contributions over recent seasons have been invaluable, but Hershiser’s return brings an iconic Dodger back into the dugout in his place.
Other Key Members of the Coaching Staff
Bob Geren (First Base Coach), Clayton McCullough (Third Base Coach), J.T. Watkins (Director of Coaching Operations), among others, round out a highly collaborative coaching team.
Impact on the Dodgers’ 2024 Season
With Hershiser back in Dodger blue, the 2024 season promises to be one of excitement and high expectations. His presence is likely to invigorate both fans and players, especially the younger pitchers who will look to him as a mentor. Hershiser’s leadership is expected to blend seamlessly with the team’s emphasis on data-driven strategies, making him an ideal addition to a Dodgers team consistently at the forefront of MLB’s competitive landscape.
Hershiser’s return underscores the Dodgers’ commitment to their storied history while continuing to build for the future. Dodgers fans can expect to see his influence in the dugout and on the field as the team embarks on another promising