Former Los Angeles Dodgers pitching great Don Newcombe has died at the age of 92 after a lengthy illness, the team announced on Tuesday.
“Don Newcombe’s presence and life established him as a role model for major leaguers across the country,” Dodgers president Stan Kasten said in a statement. “He was a constant presence at Dodger Stadium and players always gravitated toward him for his endless advice and friendship. The Dodgers meant everything to him and we are all fortunate he was a part of our lives.”
Newcombe started his big league career as a member of the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1949 and won Rookie of the Year. After a break to serve in the military during the 1952 and ’53 seasons, he returned and with the likes of Jackie Robinson, Duke Snider, Gil Hodges, Pee Wee Reese and Roy Campanella helped create a World Series champion.
In 1955, the Dodgers won it all, and Newcombe went 20-5 with a 3.20 ERA.
His best season on the mound came in 1956 when he led the league with 27 wins and won the Cy Young and MVP awards.
He never reached some lofty heights again. After and 0-6 start to the season in Los Angeles, he was traded to the Reds.
Newcombe finished his 10-year career as a four-time All-Star with a 149-90 record and 3.56 ERA.