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Manny Mota began his journey in American professional baseball in 1957. Signed by the Giants out of the Dominican Republic, Mota spent five seasons in the minors before reaching the bigs in 1962.

Mota played one year in San Francisco then traded twice before the start of the ’63 season. He wound up in Pittsburgh where he played from 1963-1968. From 1964 through the end of his time in the Steel City Mota played in at least 110 games each season as the team’s fourth outfielder and top pinch hitter.

After six productive seasons in which he hit .297 overall, the Montreal Expos selected him as their first pick in the 1968 Expansion Draft. Mota’s time in Montreal was brief, lasting only 31 games. In June of ’69, the Los Angeles Dodgers acquired him. This move proved crucial for Mota’s career. In Los Angeles, he found stability and a true baseball home.

Mota showcased his skills for 13 seasons with the Dodgers. He became a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike. During his tenure in LA, he became an All-Star and hit over .300 in nine seasons. In 1979 he set the major league record for pinch hits in a career.

Throughout his time with the Dodgers, Mota made significant contributions to the team’s three pennant-winning campaigns. His clutch hitting and versatility made him a key asset for the franchise.

Mota retired as a player in 1982 with the highest average in Los Angeles Dodger history. Though he was done playing, his love for the game continued. He transitioned into coaching, dedicating the next 34 years to the Dodgers organization. His coaching influence helped shape the next generation of players.

In 2023, the Dodgers honored Mota as a Legend of Dodger Baseball. This recognition reflected his 47 seasons in a Dodger uniform, his contributions to the team and the sport.

Manny’s journey from the Dominican Republic to becoming a Dodgers legend inspires many. His passion, dedication, and skill defined his career. As a player and coach, he left an indelible mark on the game.

The pictures above were taken at the team’s spring training facility in 1987. Mota rode his bicycle around the Vero Beach complex for years before switching to a three-wheeled bike later in his coaching tenure.

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On October 14, 1968, Expos president John McHale selected Manny Mota with the team’s first pick in the 1968 MLB Expansion Draft. Mota played 31 games for the Montreal Expos in 1969. He excelled at the plate, hitting .315 during his brief time in Canada. Mota displayed his versatility by playing in all three outfield spots.

Despite his strong performance, Mota’s career with the Expos ended quickly. On June 11, 1969, the Expos traded him to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Shown here is a document signed by McHale. A big league player from 1943-1948, McHale went on to a long and productive career as a front office executive. Learn more about him by clicking here.

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On June 11, 1969, the Los Angeles Dodgers made a significant trade with the expansion Montreal Expos. They acquired outfielder Manny Mota and shortstop Maury Wills. In return, Los Angeles sent outfielder Ron Fairly and infielder Paul Popovich to Montreal. The trade marked a pivotal moment for the Dodgers.

Mota quickly became a fixture in Los Angeles. Over his 13-years in LA, he showed impressive bat-to-ball skills. Along the way he broke Len Gabrielson team mark for pinch hits in a career and the MLB mark set by Smoky Burgess. He also retired with the highest career average in Los Angeles Dodger history.

The image above shows Mota’s trade mate Wills holding congratulatory telegrams after hitting his first big league home run. The speedster autograph the photo, adding the inscription, “My first home run. Only 713 more to catch Babe Ruth.”

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On May 16, 1970, Manny Mota was part of a tragic day in baseball history. In a game against the Giants at Dodger Stadium, Mota batted in the bottom of the third inning. He faced pitcher Gaylord Perry and hit a screaming foul ball into the crowd. The ball traveled down the first base line, where it struck 14-year-old Alan Fish. The impact hit Fish in the left temple.

Tragically, Fish sustained a severe head injury. Despite medical efforts, doctors deemed his injury inoperable. Four days later, Fish passed away, shocking the baseball community and raising safety concerns. This accident became significant as it marked the first time a batted ball caused a fatality in Major League Baseball.

This incident led to discussions about player safety and fan protection in stadiums. Baseball organizations began exploring ways to enhance safety measures for spectators. The sport had to confront the consequences of a simple foul ball, leading changes in stadium netting for protection of the fans.

Shown here is an autographed ticket to Perry’s 300th win twelve years after he made the pitch that resulted in tragedy.

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Manny Mota broke Smoky Burgess’ record for most big league pinch hits on September 29, 1979. At Dodger Stadium, manager Tommy Lasorda called on the 41-year-old Mota to bat for pitcher Jerry Reuss in the eighth inning. Mota stepped up and faced Houston Astros pitcher Joe Sambito. He delivered a single, marking his 146th career pinch hit. That broke the long-standing record set by Burgess who tallied his final substitute hit in 1957.

Mota’s achievement highlighted his remarkable career and skill as a pinch hitter. After breaking the record, Mota continued to excel, adding three more pinch hits during the season. He finished his career with an impressive total of 150 pinch hits. His record stood strong until 2001, when Lenny Harris surpassed him. Harris extended the mark 212 before retiring in 2005.

Mota’s legacy as a clutch hitter remains significant in baseball history. Fans remember his contributions and performances off the bench. His dedication and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations made him a key player for the Dodgers. Mota’s resilience and determination serve as a reminder of the impact a player can have, even in limited opportunities.

In the collection is this 1964 Topps card autographed by Smoky Burgess, the man whose record Mota broke.

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Manny Mota retired at the end of the 1979 season, closing a remarkable chapter in his baseball career. However, in 1980, the Los Angeles Dodgers pressed him into service when outfielder Reggie Smith went on the disabled list. At 41 years old, Mota showcased his remarkable talent, hitting an impressive .429 during his seven-game stint. The ageless wonder’s ability to perform at such a high level left fans and teammates in awe.

After this brief return, Mota retired once more and transitioned to a coaching role during the Dodgers’ 1981 championship campaign. The team activated him again in ’82 for one final at bat on September 1, 1982. Then he left the playing field for good. During his 20 years playing the game at its highest level, Mota tallied over 1,100 hits and maintained an impressive lifetime batting average of .305.

Shown here is a handwritten letter from Reggie Smith, the man whose injury necessitated Mota’s first return from retirement. For more on Smith, click here.

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Manny Mota proudly wore a Dodger uniform in five World Series. He first appeared as a player in 1974. That year, the Dodgers lost the championship to the Oakland Athletics. Mota returned to the World Series in 1977 and 1978, facing the New York Yankees. Both times, the Dodgers fell short in their quest for the title.

In 1981, Mota transitioned from player to coach. That year marked a turning point for the Dodgers. After earning their fourth pennant in eight seasons, the team finally won the championship. They defeated the Yankees, bringing joy to the fans and securing Mota’s first World Series ring.

Seven years later, Mota celebrated another championship with the Dodgers. In 1988, as a heavy underdog they triumphed again, highlighting their resilience and skill. All of Mota’s World Series appearances occurred during Peter O’Malley’s presidency. O’Malley led the team with vision and determination. His leadership helped foster a winning culture in Los Angeles. Mota’s contributions as both player and coach greatly impacted the Dodgers’ legacy.

Mota remains a beloved figure in Dodger history. His dedication and passion for the game inspired teammates and fans alike. Throughout his career, Mota exemplified the spirit of the Dodgers, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise. His nearly half-century in LA as a player and coach saw five pennant-winning campaigns and two championship seasons.

The above letter is written by Dodger owner O’Malley. He writes in part, “Our family is really lucky to have so many extraordinary memories when we were responsible for the Dodgers. My dad was president from 1950 to 1970 and I followed him as president from 1970 to 1998 resulting in nearly 50 years of family leadership.”

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Manny Mota retired with the highest batting average in Los Angeles Dodgers history, a remarkable achievement that showcases his exceptional talent and consistency as a hitter. Over his 13 seasons with the club, Mota hit .300 or better in nine of those years, highlighting his reliability at the plate and ability to deliver when it mattered most. His .315 career average in LA stood as a testament to his skill, making him a beloved figure among Dodgers fans.

In the years that followed, Hall of Fame catcher Mike Piazza eclipsed Mota’s record, posting a stunning .331 average during his time with the Dodgers from 1992 to 1998. Piazza’s offensive prowess and power made him one of the most celebrated hitters in baseball history.

Today Mota remains firmly entrenched with the second-highest career batting average in Los Angeles Dodger history. His legacy is defined not only by his statistics but also by his role as a mentor and leader within the clubhouse. Mota’s influence extended beyond his playing days, to his 34 years as a Dodger coach inspiring generations of players.

As fans continue to celebrate the storied history of the Dodgers, Mota’s remarkable .315 average endures as a symbol of consistency and skill, solidifying his place in the pantheon of greats in Los Angeles baseball history.

Shown here is a scouting report for LA’s career batting average leader Piazza. Written by scout Gary Sutherland, it offers a glimpse into how the Dodgers viewed their prized prospect.

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In 2023, Manny Mota was named the sixth Legend of Dodger Baseball. The franchise recognized Mota for his significant contributions to the team, 13 years as a player and 34 as a coach.

In the Dodger press release Mota expressed gratitude, “This is a great honor and a great privilege. I’m very grateful to the Dodgers for selecting me as a Legend of Dodger Baseball. I don’t consider myself a legend, just another person who always tried to contribute to the Dodgers and give my best.”

The inaugural Legends of Dodger Baseball class emerged in 2019, featuring Steve Garvey, Don Newcombe, and Fernando Valenzuela. In 2022, Maury Wills and Kirk Gibson joined their ranks.

Three months after Mota was honored, Orel Hershiser followed his path. At the time of their induction each man was in the team’s broadcast booth. In 2024, the club added Dusty Baker to their list of honorees.

Dodger President and CEO Stan Kasten praised both Mota and Hershiser. He stated, “Orel Hershiser and Manny Mota truly define the spirit, dedication, and excellence that we strive for at the Dodgers. Both have been fixtures at Dodger Stadium and in the Los Angeles community for multiple generations of Dodger fans, and we can’t wait to honor their storied careers this season.”

The baseball card above is signed by Orel; the 1985 Topps issue is his rookie card.

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In 2023, Manny Mota received the prestigious honor as a Legend of Dodger Baseball. The ceremony attracted 48,738 fans and numerous dignitaries. Hall of Famer Adrián Beltré attended to celebrate Mota. Signed by the Dodgers at age 15, Beltre came from the Dominican Republic.

Beltre spent his first seven big league seasons with the Dodgers and shared a strong bond with his fellow countryman Mota. Every spring training, Beltre flagged down Mota as he rode his styling Dodger blue tricycle around the Vero Beach facility. The young third baseman often sought Mota’s companionship, encouragement, and council. Mota’s joyful dedication and joyful spirit left a lasting impact on the future Cooperstown man.

At Mota’s ceremony, Beltré presented a an updated version of Mota’s Dodger trike. Fans cheered as Beltré reminisced about their shared experiences and Mota’s influence on his career.

Mota, known for his contributions on the field, also inspired future generations through his kindness. The ceremony celebrated not only his accomplishments but also his enduring legacy within the Dodgers organization. Mota’s journey from the Dominican Republic to becoming a Dodger legend reflected his hard work and determination.

The event highlighted the importance of community and mentorship in baseball. Mota’s legacy continues to inspire players and fans alike, uniting them through a shared love for the game.

Shown here is Adrián Beltré’s Topps contract dated August 3, 1998.