1988 World Series Game 1: Who Were The Starting Pitchers?

The 1988 World Series was a Fall Classic that pitted the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Oakland Athletics. Game 1, in particular, is etched in baseball history for its dramatic finish and unexpected heroics. But before Kirk Gibson's legendary home run, the game began with two highly accomplished pitchers taking the mound. Let's dive into who those starters were and what they brought to the table.

Dave Stewart: Oakland Athletics

For the Oakland Athletics, the starting pitcher in Game 1 was none other than Dave Stewart. Stewart was a cornerstone of the A's pitching staff during their late 1980s and early 1990s dynasty. Known for his intimidating presence and a nasty split-finger fastball, Stewart was a workhorse who consistently delivered quality innings. In 1988, he was at the peak of his powers, having posted a stellar regular season record of 21-12 with a 3.68 ERA. His performance earned him the American League Championship Series MVP award that year, setting the stage for a highly anticipated World Series appearance.

Stewart's repertoire included a fastball, a curveball, and the aforementioned split-finger fastball, which was his out pitch. He had excellent command and a bulldog mentality on the mound. The Dodgers hitters knew they were in for a tough battle against this seasoned veteran. Beyond his pitching prowess, Stewart was also a leader in the A's clubhouse, respected for his work ethic and determination. He had a knack for performing well in crucial games, making him the ideal choice for manager Tony La Russa to start Game 1 of the World Series. Facing a formidable Dodgers lineup, Stewart aimed to set the tone for the series and give the A's an early advantage. His experience and poise were expected to be key factors in his performance, as he had been through numerous high-pressure situations before. Ultimately, Stewart's role was to neutralize the Dodgers' offense and put the A's in a position to win, leveraging his deep arsenal and unwavering focus.

Orel Hershiser: Los Angeles Dodgers

On the Dodgers' side, the starting pitcher was Orel Hershiser. Hershiser had an unforgettable 1988 season, one for the ages. He finished the regular season with a record of 23-8 and a minuscule 2.26 ERA. But what truly stood out was his remarkable streak of 59 consecutive scoreless innings, a feat that remains a Major League Baseball record. Hershiser's dominance earned him the National League Cy Young Award, solidifying his status as one of the game's premier pitchers.

Hershiser, nicknamed "Bulldog" for his tenacity, relied on a mix of pitches and pinpoint control to keep hitters off balance. He wasn't overpowering, but his ability to locate his pitches and change speeds made him incredibly effective. His signature pitch was a sinker that induced countless ground balls. Facing a powerful Athletics lineup, Hershiser knew he would have to be at his best to keep the Dodgers in the game. Orel Hershiser's journey to the 1988 World Series was a testament to his dedication and skill. Throughout the regular season, he showcased remarkable consistency and an unwavering determination to succeed. His ability to maintain composure under pressure was a key factor in his success, allowing him to navigate through challenging situations with poise and confidence. As he prepared to take the mound in Game 1, Hershiser understood the magnitude of the moment and the importance of setting a positive tone for his team. He meticulously studied the A's lineup, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, and devising a strategy to exploit their vulnerabilities. With the weight of the city on his shoulders, Hershiser embraced the opportunity to lead his team on the biggest stage in baseball, ready to give everything he had to secure a victory.

Game 1 Outcome and Significance

In the actual game, both Dave Stewart and Orel Hershiser pitched well. Stewart went seven innings, allowing just one earned run, while Hershiser pitched eight innings, also allowing only two earned runs. However, the game is most remembered for what happened in the bottom of the ninth inning. With the Dodgers trailing 4-3, Kirk Gibson, who was barely able to walk due to injuries, hit a dramatic two-run home run off Dennis Eckersley to win the game. This improbable victory set the tone for the rest of the series, as the Dodgers ultimately defeated the heavily favored Athletics in five games.

The performances of Stewart and Hershiser in Game 1 underscored their importance to their respective teams. While Gibson's home run stole the headlines, the strong pitching performances from both starters laid the foundation for a memorable contest. It's a game that reminds us that baseball is full of surprises and that anything can happen on any given day.

Key Takeaways

• Dave Stewart was the starting pitcher for the Oakland Athletics in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series.
• Orel Hershiser was the starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series.
• Both pitchers delivered quality starts, but the game is most remembered for Kirk Gibson's dramatic home run.
• The Dodgers went on to win the series in five games.

Conclusion

The 1988 World Series Game 1 was a classic matchup featuring two outstanding pitchers at the top of their game. While the game will forever be remembered for Kirk Gibson's home run, the contributions of Dave Stewart and Orel Hershiser should not be overlooked. Their performances set the stage for a thrilling series that captivated baseball fans around the world. These two pitchers exemplified excellence on the mound, showcasing their talent, determination, and unwavering commitment to their teams. Their contributions to the game continue to inspire aspiring athletes and remind us of the timeless appeal of baseball. As we reflect on the 1988 World Series, let us remember the names of Dave Stewart and Orel Hershiser, two legends who left an indelible mark on the sport.