The Los Angeles Dodgers announced the passing of former outfielder Al “The Bull” Ferrara on Friday. At 84 years old, Ferrara had reportedly been hospitalized with pneumonia.
During a speech at Loyola Marymount in 2018, Ferrara referred to himself as a “real Brooklyn Dodger.” Growing up in Brooklyn, he felt a deep connection to the Dodgers and knew from a young age that he wanted to wear their jersey after attending his first game at seven years old.
That game took place on April 15, 1947, the debut of Jackie Robinson in the major leagues. The Brooklyn Dodgers were the only MLB team to offer Ferrara a contract right out of high school. In 1963, he finally had the opportunity to play for the Los Angeles team he had admired all his life. One of the highlights of his career was hearing announcer Vin Scully call out his hits and home runs, a moment that solidified his dream of playing for the Dodgers.
Although Ferrara didn’t become a key player until 1966, he was grateful to be part of two championship teams. Winning against the Yankees in 1963 was a standout moment for him.
Debuting with the Dodgers in 1963, Ferrara played for five seasons. He didn’t become a regular player until 1967, appearing in 122 games that season.
A broken ankle in 1969 led Ferrara to leave the Dodgers and join the San Diego Padres, where he spent three seasons before finishing his career in Cincinnati playing with Pete Rose.
Throughout his career, Ferrara was a .259 hitter with 60 doubles, seven triples, 51 home runs, 148 runs scored, and 198 RBIs.
Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
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