Mark Langill (Photo: LA Times)
I had the opportunity to interview Mark Langill, the Dodgers’ historian, to discuss their championship season. Mark has been the Dodgers’ historian for the past 22 years and generously agreed to answer my questions.
How did the Dodgers feel about their team at the beginning of the season? Did they feel confident they would make it to the World Series?
Every season, the Dodgers report to Spring Training with the goal of reaching the World Series. Obviously, this is the hope of other teams, but the goal at least emphasizes how long a baseball season takes from the first exhibition game until the final out of the World Series. This is always important to remember – the big picture – because there will naturally be highs and lows during a season.
What similarities are there between this year\’s championship team and previous championship years? Is there another year that comes to mind?
So many of the previous champions were \”out of the blue\” and not predicted before the start of the season, like Brooklyn in 1955 and Los Angeles in 1959 and 1965. I think the best comparison would be 1963. The Dodgers were coming off a playoff loss to the San Francisco Giants at the end of the 1962 regular season. With the reigning MVP (Maury Wills) and Cy Young Award winner (Don Drysdale), along with a healthy Sandy Koufax, the Dodgers were expected to be a pennant contender. The Dodgers swept the Yankees in the 1963 World Series.
Are there any changes on the horizon for the 2025 season?
There are always changes to sports teams, regardless of professional or college, high school or Little League. When the Dodgers were celebrating their World Series title at the stadium after the parade, it reminded me of a melting ice sculpture or a sandcastle about to be wiped away by the tides. Every year, you start over with a core of players and hope for the best.
What do you think it will take for the Dodgers to have another championship season?
You run the same route every season in terms of hopes and preparation. But the nature of sports is unscripted, which always leads to the drama. I advise people to buckle up, enjoy the ride, and see how the movie ends. Otherwise, you\’ll drive yourself crazy wondering what\’s going to happen.
Did you have a favorite player from this season? And is there anyone you hope will join the 2025 team?
I don\’t have favorite players based on their performances. I have favorite games and moments. One of the players I most admire is Clayton Kershaw, who just finished his 17th season and is the longest-tenured Dodger pitcher in history. It seems like a long time ago when I was driving him in a golf cart from the minor league camp to the big league camp so he could get his photo taken for the yearbook. He has enjoyed a great career and has a wonderful family. As for next season and new players, I watch like everyone else to see what\’s going to happen!
Mark’s enthusiasm for the Dodgers is contagious and it was a privilege to interview him. In my opinion, it sounds like the Dodgers will be able to make it to the World Series again.
