Sports World, Celebrities Pay Tribute To Dodgers Hall Of Fame Manager Tommy Lasorda
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) — The sports world and beyond is in mourning Friday for Hall of Fame Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda.
Lasorda, 93, died Thursday night after suffering a heart attack. He had just been released from the hospital earlier this week after spending six weeks in the hospital for heart-related concerns.
"Tommy Lasorda was one of the finest managers our game has ever known," a statement from Major League Baseball Commissioner Robert Manfred said. "He loved life as a Dodger. His career began as a pitcher in 1949 but he is, of course, best known as the manager of two World Series Champions and four pennant-winning clubs."
Lasorda was beloved by Dodger fans for decades, often attending games even after he retired as the team's manager.
Lasorda was a recognizable and popular figure, not only at Dodger Stadium, but also at Staples Center and other LA landmarks.
Athletes taking the field in Chavez Ravine, with celebrities in the stands, were starstruck by Lasorda, then won over by his warmth and encouragement.
Rival teams in baseball put aside their differences to honor Lasorda.
Lasorda was also remembered fondly by the many celebrities that attended Dodger games over the years. Comedian and talk show host Jimmy Kimmel tweeted that it was a thrill to know him, while actor Henry Winkler called Lasorda "an ambassador for baseball, our city and for humanity."
Actor Billy Crystal quoted Tom Hanks' famous line from the film "A League Of Their Own" with his tribute.
Lasorda is survived by his wife of 70 years, Jo, their daughter, Laura, and granddaughter, Emily Tess.
