This Day in Dodgers History: Pee Wee Reese Retires
On October 27, 1958, the Brooklyn Dodgers witnessed the end of an era as their beloved shortstop, Pee Wee Reese, officially announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. This moment marked the conclusion of an illustrious career that spanned 16 seasons, all of which were spent with the Dodgers, first in Brooklyn and then in Los Angeles. Reese, known for his leadership, steady play, and deep connection with both his team and the city of Brooklyn, left behind an indelible legacy, both on and off the field.
A New Chapter for the Dodgers
Reese’s retirement came during a time of transition for the Dodgers. In 1958, the team had just completed its first season in Los Angeles after relocating from Brooklyn. The move, made to take advantage of the larger market and better weather, was a watershed moment for the franchise. But it also signaled the end of an era for the Dodgers’ long-time home in Brooklyn, and with it, the conclusion of the careers of some of its most beloved players.
Pee Wee Reese was one of the key figures in Brooklyn’s success during its golden age in the 1940s and 1950s. He had been an integral part of the Dodgers’ teams that reached the World Series multiple times and had won the championship in 1955. As a leader both on and off the field, Reese helped guide the team through some of its most memorable moments, including its historic integration with Jackie Robinson, with whom Reese formed a legendary partnership.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Reese was born in Ekron, Kentucky, in 1918, and after a stellar career at the University of Kentucky, he was signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1938. He quickly became one of the most promising young players in the minors, and by 1940, he made his Major League debut. Reese’s initial years in the big leagues were marked by solid play, but it wasn’t until after his service in World War II, where he served in the U.S. Navy, that he truly blossomed into one of the game’s best shortstops.
When he returned to the Dodgers in 1946, Reese’s contributions went beyond his on-field talent. He was a strong and vocal leader in the locker room, a key figure in helping Jackie Robinson adjust to the pressures of being the first African American player in Major League Baseball. Reese’s support and friendship were vital in Robinson’s success and in the Dodgers’ push to break baseball’s color barrier.
Leadership and Legacy
Reese was not only known for his glove and bat, but also for his leadership. He was the team captain for much of his career, a role that was critical in guiding the Dodgers through moments of adversity. His calm demeanor and steady play under pressure were essential in helping the Dodgers maintain their competitive edge.
While Reese was not a flashy player, he was incredibly consistent. His defensive skills were exceptional, and he was known for his ability to turn double plays and his strong arm. Offensively, Reese was a solid hitter, boasting a career .269 batting average, with 126 home runs, and 885 runs batted in. His value, however, was not just in statistics. His role as a steadying influence on a team full of dynamic players cannot be overstated.
One of the defining moments of Reese’s career came during the 1955 World Series, when the Dodgers defeated the Yankees in seven games to claim their first-ever championship. Reese played a key role in the victory, providing clutch hits and solid defense. It was a fitting achievement for a player who had dedicated his entire career to the Dodgers’ success.
The Transition to Los Angeles
After the Dodgers’ move to Los Angeles in 1958, Reese played one final season in the majors, though it was clear that his days as a player were numbered. He appeared in 130 games during that season, but his performance had begun to decline. The team’s shift to a new coast also meant that the Dodgers were adjusting to a new way of life, both on and off the field. Despite his declining stats, Reese remained an important part of the Dodgers’ culture.
With the emergence of younger stars like Maury Wills, Reese’s role as the starting shortstop was no longer secure. By the end of the 1958 season, Reese made the decision to retire, allowing the team to begin its next chapter without him. Though he had played his final game, his impact on the organization, the city of Los Angeles, and the game of baseball remained profound.
Post-Retirement
Pee Wee Reese’s retirement did not signal the end of his involvement with the Dodgers. In fact, he continued to have a significant presence in the baseball world. After retiring, he was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984, cementing his status as one of the greatest shortstops in the history of the game.
Reese also worked as a coach for the Dodgers for several seasons and was deeply involved in various charity events and community outreach programs. He became a symbol of the Dodgers’ legacy, frequently making appearances at ceremonies and events in both Brooklyn and Los Angeles. Even after his passing in 1999, his memory lived on as a beacon of what it meant to be a true baseball icon.
His leadership, friendship, and contributions to Jackie Robinson’s integration remain central to the history of the Dodgers and to the broader narrative of racial progress in America. His support for Robinson, both on and off the field, was a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ culture during that time, and his friendship with Robinson is often cited as one of the most significant partnerships in sports history.
A Fitting Tribute
On the day of Pee Wee Reese’s retirement, the Dodgers paid tribute to his outstanding career. His number 1 was retired by the team in a ceremony that reflected the gratitude and admiration the organization had for its captain. The respect and reverence for Reese were evident from both his teammates and the fans who had grown to love him over the years. For the Dodgers, Reese was more than just a shortstop. He was a symbol of the team’s heart and soul.
Pee Wee Reese’s impact on the Brooklyn Dodgers, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Major League Baseball cannot be overstated. His career spanned some of the most important moments in the sport’s history, and his influence extended far beyond the baseball diamond. His decision to retire on October 27, 1958, marked the end of an era in Dodgers history, but his legacy would live on for generations. Through his leadership, his play, and his friendship with Jackie Robinson, Reese helped to shape the Dodgers into the legendary franchise they are today.
