Don Drysdale

The Intimidating Ace of Dodger Blue

Known for his towering presence on the mound and his ability to dominate hitters with an electric fastball and devastating sidearm delivery, Drysdale was the ultimate enforcer of his era. Over a stellar 14-season career with the Los Angeles Dodgers (1956–1969), he became one of the most feared and respected pitchers in baseball, earning a place among the all-time greats.

This collection celebrates Don Drysdale—a true Dodger legend whose remarkable achievements and larger-than-life persona left an indelible mark on baseball.

The Big D: Career Highlights

Drysdale’s career stats reflect his dominance during one of baseball’s golden ages of pitching. Over 14 seasons, all spent with the Dodgers, he built a Hall of Fame résumé:

• Wins: 209
• ERA: 2.95
• Strikeouts: 2,486 (24th all-time upon his retirement)
• Shutouts: 49
• Complete Games: 167
• Innings Pitched: 3,432.0

Drysdale was a 9-time All-Star and won the 1962 Cy Young Award, finishing that season with a 25–9 record, a 2.83 ERA, and 232 strikeouts. He was also a crucial part of the Dodgers’ three World Series championships (1959, 1963, 1965), forming a legendary pitching duo with Sandy Koufax that defined an era.

Drysdale’s mastery of the mound wasn’t just about overpowering hitters—it was about intimidating them. With a fierce sidearm delivery and a reputation for pitching inside, he earned the respect and fear of batters across the league.

Dominance on the Big Stage

Drysdale excelled when it mattered most, delivering clutch performances in the postseason. In the 1963 World Series, he pitched a complete-game shutout in Game 3 against the New York Yankees, helping the Dodgers secure a sweep. Two years later, during the 1965 World Series, Drysdale earned a critical win in Game 4, further solidifying his reputation as a big-game pitcher.

The Record-Breaking Streak

One of Drysdale’s most iconic achievements came in 1968, during the infamous "Year of the Pitcher." Drysdale threw 58.2 consecutive scoreless innings, breaking a record that had stood for 55 years. The streak included six consecutive shutouts, a testament to his dominance and durability. His record stood until Orel Hershiser broke it in 1988, fittingly as a fellow Dodger.

Two Stories That Define Don Drysdale

1. The Enforcer on the Mound:
   Drysdale was famous for pitching inside, a tactic he used to protect his teammates and establish his dominance over opposing hitters. He once said, “My own little rule was two for one: If one of my teammates got knocked down, then I knocked down two on the other team.” His intimidating presence and willingness to pitch with an edge earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

2. The All-Around Athlete:
   Drysdale wasn’t just a pitcher—he was a legitimate threat at the plate. He hit 29 career home runs, the most ever by a pitcher in the National League. In 1965, he hit seven home runs, tying a record for pitchers that still stands. His ability to contribute offensively made him one of the most versatile players of his generation.

The Most Iconic Don Drysdale Cards

Don Drysdale’s cards are cherished by collectors who appreciate the greatness of one of the game’s most dominant pitchers.

1. 1957 Topps Don Drysdale Rookie Card (#18):
   This card is the crown jewel of any Drysdale collection. Featuring a young, confident Drysdale in the classic Topps design, it captures the beginning of a legendary career.

2. 1963 Topps Don Drysdale (#360):
   Released during his Cy Young-winning season, this card symbolizes Drysdale at the height of his dominance.

3. 1965 Topps Don Drysdale (#500):
   Highlighting one of his World Series-winning seasons, this card is a fan favorite for collectors of vintage Dodgers memorabilia.

The Lasting Legacy of The Big D

Don Drysdale’s career was more than just numbers—it was about the fear he instilled in batters, the leadership he brought to the Dodgers, and the standard of excellence he upheld on the mound. His contributions to the Dodgers’ dynasty of the 1950s and ’60s made him a cornerstone of one of baseball’s greatest eras.

Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984, Drysdale’s legacy lives on as one of the greatest pitchers of his generation. Beyond the stats, he left a lasting impact as a pioneer of aggressive pitching, a consummate competitor, and a beloved figure in baseball lore.

The Hall of Fame Exchange proudly celebrates the legacy of Don Drysdale: the fearless ace, the record-breaker, and the icon of Dodger Blue. From his Cy Young season to his legendary scoreless streak, Drysdale remains one of baseball’s most enduring symbols of dominance and determination.

As long as the mound exists, the legend of The Big D will endure.