Kirk Gibson's 1988 World Series home run

Background

After winning the National League (NL) West division, the Dodgers were considered the underdogs throughout the 1988 postseason, first to the New York Mets in the NL Championship Series, then to the Athletics in the World Series. Gibson, who was not expected to play due to injuries in both legs sustained during the NLCS, was surprisingly inserted as a pinch hitter with the Dodgers trailing 4–3 with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning and the tying run at first base. Gibson's home run—his only plate appearance of the series—helped the Dodgers defeat the Athletics, four games to one, securing their sixth World Series title.

The play has since become legendary in the baseball world, and is regarded as one of the greatest home runs of all time. It was voted the "greatest moment in L.A. sports history" in a 1995 poll. Many of the images associated with the home run, particularly Gibson pumping his fist while circling the bases, are often shown in classic highlight reels, usually accompanied by play-by-play from broadcasters Vin Scully or Jack Buck.

Did You Know?

• Gibson was watching the game on television while undergoing physical therapy in the Dodgers' clubhouse before telling manager Tommy Lasorda he was available to pinch hit.
• Dodger scout Mel Didier had provided a report that with a 3–2 count against a left-handed hitter, Eckersley would throw a backdoor slider, which is the pitch Gibson hit.
• Though not related to his World Series home run, Gibson would be named the 1988 NL Most Valuable Player.