The Early Years of Orel Hershiser
Orel Hershiser was born on September 16, 1958, in Buffalo, New York. He grew up in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, where he attended Cherry Hill West High School. Hershiser was a standout athlete in high school, excelling in both baseball and football. He went on to attend Bowling Green State University, where he continued to play both sports.
Hershiser’s Baseball Career
Hershiser was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 17th round of the 1979 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut in 1983 and quickly established himself as one of the top pitchers in the game. Hershiser won the Cy Young Award in 1988, when he led the Dodgers to a World Series championship. He was also named the MVP of the World Series.
Hershiser’s Post-Playing Career
After retiring from baseball, Hershiser became a broadcaster and analyst for ESPN. He also worked as a coach and consultant for several MLB teams. In 2018, Hershiser was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame.
What Happened to Hershiser in 2023?
In 2023, Hershiser was involved in a serious car accident while driving in Los Angeles. He suffered several injuries, including a broken leg and a concussion. Hershiser was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent surgery to repair his leg.
Following the accident, Hershiser took some time off from his broadcasting duties to focus on his recovery. He was able to return to work a few months later, but he was noticeably more reserved and cautious on air.
Hershiser’s Impact on Baseball
Hershiser’s impact on baseball cannot be overstated. He was one of the most dominant pitchers of his era, and his performance in the 1988 World Series will forever be remembered as one of the greatest playoff performances in MLB history. Hershiser’s work as a broadcaster and analyst has also been highly regarded, and he has helped to shape the way that fans and analysts view the game.
Final Thoughts
Despite the setback that he faced in 2023, Orel Hershiser remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in baseball. His contributions to the game both on and off the field will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
