Sandy Koufax: A Legendary Career Begins on June 24, 1955

LOS ANGELES, CA — The iconic career of Sandy Koufax began on June 24, 1955, when he made his Major League Baseball debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Signing with the team for $14,000 the previous December, Koufax was added to the active roster, taking Tommy Lasorda‘s place, who was sent to Triple-A Montreal.

Koufax started his career as a relief pitcher. In his first game against the Milwaukee Braves, he pitched two scoreless innings, allowing one hit, issuing a walk, and making two strikeouts. In total, during the 1955 season, he had a record of 2-2 with a 3.02 ERA, making 12 appearances, including five as a starter.

Despite his early struggles with command—registering 30 strikeouts to 28 walks in 41.2 innings—Koufax evolved into one of the most celebrated pitchers in baseball history. He won three Cy Young Awards, an MVP, made seven All-Star selections, and achieved five ERA titles, alongside throwing a perfect game and four no-hitters.

By 1966, Koufax became the first player to secure three Cy Young Awards. His career with the Dodgers also included four World Series championships. Though retired at age 30 due to arthritis, he remained connected to the Dodgers, offering advice and attending games at Dodger Stadium.

In 2022, the Dodgers honored Koufax, who expressed his disbelief at being immortalized alongside Jackie Robinson. His legacy endures as one of baseball’s greats.