The Los Angeles Dodgers have made it to the World Series eight times in their storied history. Among these achievements, numerous players have etched their names into the records of the franchise, dating back to their first MLB title in 1955, when they were known as the Brooklyn Dodgers.
Since that inaugural victory, the team has seen its roster dotted with legendary names like Pee Wee Reese and Don Drysdale. However, amid these luminaries, there was a player who may not have garnered as much attention during the Dodgersâ 2020 championship run but was highly regarded for his stellar performances in other seasons with the team.
On Friday, Alex Wood announced his retirement from baseball, marking the end of an era. The former Dodgers World Series champion spent a total of five years with the Los Angeles franchise, highlighted by an All-Star Game selection in 2017 when he boasted an impressive .842 winning percentage.
Wood shared a heartfelt message to announce his retirement. âToday, with immense gratitude, I am announcing my retirement from Major League Baseball⊠Iâve given every ounce of myself in pursuit of my lifelong dream of becoming a big leaguer,â Wood wrote on his Instagram account. âPlaying 12 years in the show, reaching seven postseasons, winning a World Series, and earning an All-Star selection, I never couldâve imagined it would turn out this way.â
Woodâs tenure in the MLB
Often celebrated by fans for his stellar performances with the Dodgers, Wood carved a memorable niche during his five-year stint with the team. Throughout this period, he maintained a commendable 3.54 ERA over 447.1 innings, permitting 405 hits and 197 runs.
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Woodâs journey also saw him striving for impact with the Atlanta Braves. This marked his debut with the franchise, where he represented them over three seasons. During his tenure, he participated in 86 games, pitching 368.2 innings, allowing 359 hits, and conceding 193 runs.
In another significant chapter, Wood joined the ranks of the San Francisco Giants, contributing for three years. Over this period, he took the mound in 81 games, surrendering 355 hits and 193 runs while registering a 4.41 ERA.
Woodâs last season in the MLB
As Wood donned the Oakland Athleticsâ jersey in his final MLB season, he had limited opportunities to showcase the prowess that once helped the Dodgers secure a World Series title. In just 9 appearances, he struggled to find his form, concluding his career with a 5.56 ERA, allowing 51 hits and 27 runs.
