It is no secret that the Los Angeles Dodgers value versatility on their roster. Most players play multiple positions on the diamond. Enrique Hernandez is the prime example. However, the practice did not start at Chavez Ravine. The original “Mr.Versatility” of the Dodgers had roots back in Brooklyn, and his name was Jim Gilliam.
World Champion, Rookie of the Year and All-Star. This is Brooklyn and LA icon Jim Gilliam. #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/H0cNARiSh2
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 7, 2022
Looking Back on the Career of Dodgers Legend Jim Gilliam
Humble Beginnings
Gilliam made a good first impression after trying out for the Baltimore Elite Giants of the Negro Leagues in 1946. He was just 17 years old, and three years removed from getting his first glove. As Gilliam was trying to make the team, Baltimore manager George Scales noticed that the youngster couldn’t hit the curve ball. Scales suggested that Gilliam hit from the other side of the plate. The 17-year-old complied and thus became a switch hitter. This ability to adjust served Gilliam his entire career.
Almost A Cub
Before the 1950 season, Baltimore sent Gilliam to the Chicago Cubs’ Triple-A affiliate in Springfield, Massachusetts. If he made it to the majors, he would be paid. However, his light hitting and reserved nature gave the Cubs second thoughts. The next season, Gilliam was in the Brooklyn Dodgers organization.
Moving Jackie Robinson
At the start of the 1953 season, the Dodgers were looking to improve the lead-off spot and their on-base percentage. Gilliam would play second base, moving Jackie Robinson to first. This threatened the team’s chemistry. However, the new second baseman went on to reach base for 24 straight games, and his unquestioned work ethic helped the move pay off. Gilliam ended the year with six home runs, 63 RBI, and a league-leading 17 triples to win the National League Rookie of the Year Award.
Odd Man Out?
Despite being the consummate team player, it seemed like Gilliam was perennially playing for his job–at a new position. Yet, every year, the veteran would make the team out of spring training. The only positions he did not play in his career were pitcher, catcher, and shortstop. As if to recognize his defensive prowess, though Gilliam is not in the Baseball Hall of Fame, his glove has a permanent place in Cooperstown.
Manager Material
When Gilliam retired at the end of 1966, He became the first base coach and eventually a hitting instructor. His incredible baseball instincts allowed him to catch the details that gave his players the edge and the confidence for them to succeed. Gilliam managed with distinction in the Puerto Rican Winter League and was publicly discussed as a managerial candidate in the majors. For his part, Gilliam was convinced his time would come.
When the manager Walter Alston retired, Gilliam was a finalist to replace him. The Dodgers eventually chose Tommy Lasorda. But Gilliam would remain with Los Angeles as a trusted coach. Unfortunately, Gilliam would die at the young age of 49 due to a brain hemorrhage. It doesn’t take much speculation to ascertain that had he lived, Gilliam would have become manager sooner rather than later.
Dodgers Were Lucky to Have “Junior”
Gilliam may not have thought of himself as anyone special. However, the fact that Los Angeles has retired his number 19 proves otherwise. The Dodgers were lucky to have him.
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