MLB Legend Manny Mota Hospitalized After Stroke

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Manny Mota, the legendary Major League Baseball player and coach, is recovering in a Los Angeles hospital after suffering a stroke on Monday night, the Dodgers announced.

The 87-year-old Mota, known for his long tenure with the Dodgers and as a key player for the Montreal Expos, had a storied career that spanned over two decades. He played with the Dodgers from 1969 through 1980, briefly returning for one game in 1982. He is recognized as baseball’s all-time leader in pinch hits with 150.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Dodgers reported, “Last night, Dodger legend Manny Mota suffered a stroke. He is in recovery, where he is responsive to commands and is resting comfortably.” Mota’s condition was described as stable as of Tuesday morning.

His son, Jose Mota, a player-turned-broadcaster, provided an update, saying, “Dad never lost consciousness during the incident and is currently doing well.”

The former outfielder transitioned to coaching with the Dodgers, serving as a first base coach and hitting instructor from 1980 to 2013. Under his guidance, the team won the World Series in 1981 and 1988.

In recognition of his contributions, Mota was inducted into the ‘Legends of Dodger Baseball‘ in 2023, and he has also received honors from the Hispanic Heritage Baseball Museum and the Latino Baseball Hall of Fame.

Beyond his baseball career, Mota established the Manny Mota International Foundation, a nonprofit organization that has been instrumental in raising funds for underprivileged families in the Dominican Republic.

Supporters of Mota and baseball fans alike are hopeful for his quick recovery.