A Historic Win: The 1981 National League Pennant
Los Angeles Dodgers: A Team of Determination
The Los Angeles Dodgers, under the management of Walter Alston, showcased incredible resilience throughout the 1981 season, battling hard to secure their place in the postseason. After clinching the National League West Division, they faced the formidable Montreal Expos in the National League Championship Series (NLCS). This was a crucial moment in history as it marked the first time the Expos reached the NLCS, adding to the competitiveness of the series.
Montreal Expos: A Team on the Rise
Managed by Jim Fanning, the Montreal Expos had many fan-favorite players, including Gary Carter and Andre Dawson. Their performance leading up to the NLCS had fans believing that they could finally snag a pennant. The Expos were coming off a strong season, and their advanced pitching staff, featuring the likes of Steve Rogers, made them a feared opponent.
The Game That Changed Everything
Game 5: A Dramatic Conclusion
October 14, 1981, marked a pivotal moment in baseball history as the Dodgers and Expos clashed in Game 5 of the NLCS. The game was played at Dodger Stadium, intensifying the atmosphere with a packed crowd. With the series tied at 2-2, it was a winner-takes-all match. Key performances came from players like Pedro Guerrero, who delivered crucial hits, and Steve Sax, whose speedy base running created opportunities.
Victory for the Dodgers
In a nail-biting finish, the Dodgers emerged victorious with a score of 4-1. This victory not only secured the pennant for the Dodgers but also set the stage for their matchup against the New York Yankees in the World Series, where they would eventually claim their first championship since 1965.
Fun Fact
Dodgers vs. Expos: A Memorable Rivalry
During that five-game series, the tension between the Dodgers and Expos built up to a fever pitch, leading to some memorable moments, including a pivotal game-winning home run by Candy Maldonado that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on 1981 NLCS
For those looking to dive deeper into the thrilling saga of the 1981 NLCS, consider reading "The Dodger Way: The Book of the 1981 Season" and "The Year the Expos Lost: A 1981 Retrospective". These books provide deeper insights and personal accounts of this thrilling event.
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