The Los Angeles Dodgers History reflects one of baseball’s most iconic journeys. Starting in Brooklyn before moving west in 1958, the franchise became a cornerstone of Los Angeles Dodgers Baseball. Known for breaking barriers and winning multiple titles, the Dodgers have built a legacy filled with unforgettable players and championship moments.
Established
1889
City
Brooklyn – Los Angeles
League History
2000 – Present / Major League Baseball
1889 – 1999 / National League
Team History
1958 – Present / Los Angeles Dodgers
1932 – 1957 / Brooklyn Dodgers
1914 – 1931 / Brooklyn Robins
1911 – 1912 / Brooklyn Trolley Dodgers
1899 – 1910, 1913 / Brooklyn Superbas
Nickname
Dodgers – The Los Angeles Dodgers have been a part of Major League Baseball since 1883, and the team has had an exciting journey. From its origins as the Brooklyn Dodgers to its current home in sunny California, this beloved franchise has seen plenty of changes, including its nickname. So where did “Dodgers” come from? Look at how one of baseball’s most iconic teams got its name!
Los Angeles Dodgers Origin
The original Brooklyn-based team was founded in 1883 and was initially named after residents who dodged streetcars on their way to games: “Trolley Dodger.” This fun moniker quickly gained traction among fans, so much so that it became official when they joined the National League two years later – but not without some controversy first!
The American Association (which eventually merged with NL) already had another club called Trolley Dodgers based out of Philadelphia; however, no legal action ensued due to a lack of evidence that either side was infringing upon each other's trademarks or copyrights.
So while we may never know why exactly they chose this particular nickname for themselves back then (although there are many theories!), what we do know is that it stuck around for a good reason: It perfectly encapsulates the energy and spirit behind America's favorite pastime—something all true sports fans can appreciate about LA's beloved hometown heroes!
Championship
World Series 8
2025, 2024, 2020, 1988, 1981, 1965, 1963, 1959, 1955
Stadium
1962 – Present / Dodger Stadium
1958 – 1961 / Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
*Brooklyn*
1913 – 1957 / Ebbets Field
1898 – 1912 / Washington Park II
1899 – 1897 / Eastern Park
Owner
2012 – Present / Guggenheim Baseball Partners
2005 – 2012 / Frank McCourt
1998 – 2005 / News Corporation
1970 – 1997 / Peter O’Malley
1950 – 1970 / Walter O’Malley
1945 – 1950 / Branch Rickey, Walter O’Malley, Andrew J. Schmitz
1925 – 1945 / Stephen McKeever, Brooklyn Trust Company
1912 – 1925 / Charles Ebbets, Ed McKeever, Stephen McKeever
1907 – 1912 / Charles Ebbets, Henry Medicus
1905 – 1906 / Charles Ebbets, Ferdinand Abell, Henry Medicus, Ned Hanlon
1899 – 1904 / Charles Ebbets, Ferdinand Abell, Harry Von der Horst, Ned Hanlon
- 1959
- 1962
- 1963
- 1965
- 1981
- 1988
- 2012
- 2020
- 2024
- 2025
World Series Winner 1959
The 1959 World Series featured the National League champion Los Angeles Dodgers beating the American League champion Chicago White Sox, four games to two. It was the first pennant for the White Sox in 40 years (since the 1919 Black Sox Scandal). It was the Dodgers’ second World Series championship in five years, their first in Los Angeles, and marked ...
Opening of Dodger Stadium
The process of building Walter O’Malley’s dream stadium soon began in semi-rural Chavez Ravine, in the hills just north of downtown L.A. There was some political controversy, as the residents of the ravine, mostly Hispanic and mostly poor, resisted the eminent domain removal of their homes (land which had been previously condemned for a public housing project, Elysian Park Heights) ...
World Series Winner 1963
The 1963 World Series matched the two-time defending champion New York Yankees against the Los Angeles Dodgers, with the Dodgers sweeping the Series in four games to capture their second title in five years, and their third in franchise history.-
World Series Winner 1965
The 1965 World Series featured the National League champion Los Angeles Dodgers against the American League champion Minnesota Twins, who had won their first pennant since 1933 when the team was known as the Washington Senators. The Dodgers prevailed in seven games to capture their second title in three years, and their third since moving to Los Angeles in 1958. ... 
World Series Winner 1981
The 1981 World Series matched the New York Yankees against the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking their third meeting in the Series in five years as well as a record eleventh Series meeting overall and last Series meeting to date. The Dodgers won the Series in a reversed carbon copy of the last series meeting between these two teams which was ...
World Series Winner 1988
World Series – 1988 The 1988 World Series matched the Oakland Athletics against the Los Angeles Dodgers, with the Dodgers upsetting the heavily favored A’s to win the Series in five games (the exact opposite result of their 1974 meeting, which also went five games). The most memorable moment of the 1988 World Series occurred when injured Dodgers MVP Kirk ...
Guggenheim Baseball Management
On March 27, 2012, it was announced that an agreement had been reached on the sale of the Dodgers between Frank McCourt and Guggenheim Baseball Management LLC, a group of investors fronted by Guggenheim CEO Mark Walter and including former Los Angeles Lakers player Magic Johnson, baseball executive Stan Kasten, and film mogul Peter Guber. The total sale price for ...-
COVID-19 World Series Champs Dodgers 2020
The 2020 World Series was the championship series of Major League Baseball’s 2020 season. The 116th edition of the World Series was a best-of-seven playoff between the American League champion Tampa Bay Rays and the National League champion Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers defeated the Rays to win the series in six games for their first championship in 32 years. ... -
Dodgers Reign Supreme: 2024 Championship Secured in Epic Showdown
The Dodgers finished the 2024 season with a 98–64 record, the best in the majors, and home field advantage throughout the playoffs, although it was the first season the failed to win 100 games in a full season since 2018. For the third time in five years, they faced their division rival San Diego Padres in the 2024 National League ... -
BACK-TO-BACK CHAMPS: DODGERS HEROISM
The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their ninth World Series title, defeating the Toronto Blue Jays in a dramatic Game 7 to become the first back-to-back champions in 25 years. It was the 136th season for the Los Angeles Dodgers franchise in Major League Baseball (MLB). They defeated the Blue Jays in the World Series in seven games to repeat as ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Los Angeles Dodgers History
The Los Angeles Dodgers History begins with their early years as the Brooklyn Superbas in the late 19th century. Founded in 1884, they became a National League member in 1890. This marked the start of one of baseball’s most iconic franchises. Over time, the team evolved into a powerhouse, laying the foundation for today’s Los Angeles Dodgers Baseball legacy.
By 1958, the Dodgers relocated from Brooklyn to Los Angeles, becoming the first Major League team on the West Coast. This bold move transformed the Los Angeles Dodgers History and attracted a new generation of fans. The Dodgers soon built a tradition of excellence, competing in historic rivalries and expanding their influence far beyond California.
The team made history on April 10, 1947, when Jackie Robinson debuted for Brooklyn. This broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier and changed American sports forever. This defining moment is central to Los Angeles Dodgers History and to the inclusive legacy of Los Angeles Dodgers Baseball. Robinson’s courage shaped the modern game and inspired countless players.
Dodgers Achievements
Since moving west, the Dodgers have claimed six World Series titles and 24 National League pennants. They also secured numerous division championships, showing a consistent drive to win. Legendary figures like Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale, and Tommy Lasorda turned the Los Angeles Dodgers History into a story of leadership, record-breaking performances, and enduring greatness.
In more recent years, stars like Clayton Kershaw and Mookie Betts have continued the tradition of success. Their achievements reinforce why Los Angeles Dodgers Baseball remains a model of excellence in Major League Baseball. With a deep fan base and a history of championships, the Dodgers continue to create unforgettable memories for future generations.
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Los Angeles Dodgers Team History: The Story Behind the Glory!
This video explores the Dodgers’ origins in Brooklyn, their monumental move to Los Angeles, and the numerous championships and legendary players that have defined the team over the decades. From Jackie Robinson breaking barriers to the modern-day powerhouse, the Dodgers' legacy is one of triumph, perseverance, and innovation. Join us as we celebrate the incredible history of the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team that has left an indelible mark on baseball.
Los Angeles DodgThe Dodgers Mount Rushmore: Who Makes The Cut?ers Team History: The Story Behind the Glory!
This video explores the Dodgers’ origins in Brooklyn, their monumental move to Los Angeles, and the numerous championships and legendary players that have defined the team over the decades. From Jackie Robinson breaking barriers to the modern-day powerhouse, the Dodgers' legacy is one of triumph, perseverance, and innovation. Join us as we celebrate the incredible history of the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team that has left an indelible mark on baseball.
Retired Number
1 / Pee Wee Reese
2 / Tommy Lasorda
4 / Duke Snider
19 / Jim Gilliam
20 / Don Sutton
24 / Walter Alston
32 / Sandy Koufax
39 / Roy Campanella
42 / Jackie Robinson
53 / Don Drysdale
*Blue is this team’s history