Steve Webb
Carl Erskine, who died this week at the age of 97, is a name synonymous with the Brooklyn Dodgers’ golden era. The lanky righthander stands as a paragon of pitching prowess and sportsmanship. His legacy transcends mere statistics, though his on-field achievements are remarkable. He was the final surviving member of the iconic Dodgers team that was featured in Roger Kahn’s elegaic memoir “The Boys of Summer.”
Born on December 13, 1926, in Anderson, Indiana, Erskine’s journey to baseball stardom began in his hometown, where he honed his skills on sandlot fields before catching the attention of scouts.In 1948, Erskine made his Major League Baseball debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers, marking the commencement of a career that would etch his name into the annals of baseball history. Erskine possessed an arsenal of pitches that baffled hitters and earned him the admiration of fans and peers alike. His signature pitch, the curveball, was renowned for its sharp break and unhittable trajectory. His best year probably came in 1952 when the 25-year-old Erskine posted a 14-6 record with a 2.70 ERA over more than 200 innings of work.
Wearing the now-famous number 17, Erskine threw two no-hitters during his career. His first was against the Chicago Cubs on June 19, 1952 during which walked only one batter, just missing a perfect game. His second no-hitter came against the New York Giants on May 12, 1956, where he allowed just two walks. Thes flawless performances solidified Erskine’s place in baseball lore and endeared him to Dodgers faithful forever.
Throughout his career, Erskine amassed an impressive array of statistics. He compiled a lifetime record of 122 wins and 78 losses, with a career earned run average (ERA) of 4.00. In addition to his no-hitters, Erskine recorded one other remarkable achievement: he struck out 14 batters in Game 3 of the 1953 World Series against the New York Yankees, a record that stood for over a decade before it was bested by Bob Gibson’s epic 17-strikeout game in 1967.
All told, Erskine pitched in five World Series for the Brooklyn club, and was a key contributor to the team that finally beat the hated Yankees in 1955 to give the Dodgers their first World Series win and only championship that would be enjoyed by the borough of Brooklyn. He made the trip to Los Angeles with the team in the twilight of his career, but wasn’t at his best; in California, he only managed four wins over the two years he played on the West Coast and his ERA was well north of 7.00 in his last year 1959, and he did not see any action in the Dodgers first World Series win for the city of LA that year.
However, Erskine’s impact extended beyond his on-field accomplishments. Known for his integrity, humility, and dedication to his craft, Erskine epitomized the values of sportsmanship and teamwork. When Jackie Robinson joined the Dodgers in 1948, he and Pee Wee Reese were key allies in Robinson’s gaining acceptance in the clubhouse and at least begruding respect from opponents. He served as a mentor to younger players, offering guidance and support both on and off the field. Erskine’s leadership qualities were evident to all who knew him, earning him the respect and admiration of teammates and opponents alike.
Off the field, Erskine remained actively involved in his community, using his platform as a professional athlete to give back. He participated in numerous charitable endeavors, including youth baseball clinics and fundraisers for various causes. Erskine’s commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others exemplified his character and left a lasting impact far beyond the confines of the baseball diamond. In his retirement years, he was particularly interested in the issues of mental health, and advocated for greater understanding of people who faced such challenges as Down Syndrome. His charitable work was the topic of the recent documentary: “The Best We’ve Got: The Carl Erskine Story”
In recognition of his contributions to the game, Erskine was inducted into the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame in 1980 and the Brooklyn Dodgers Hall of Fame in 2002. These honors serve as testament to his enduring legacy and enduring impact on the sport he loved.
As we reflect on the storied history of the Brooklyn Dodgers and the illustrious careers of its greatest players, Carl Erskine’s name shines brightly among them. His remarkable achievements, unwavering dedication, and exemplary character continue to inspire generations of baseball fans and players alike. Carl Erskine will forever be remembered as a true legend of the game, a beacon of excellence, and a beloved ambassador for the sport of baseball.
