Dodgers: The 18 Best Individual Seasons in Franchise History

1. Mike Piazza (1997)

The Numbers: .362/.431/.638 40 HR 124 RBI 8.7 WAR 185 OPS

The kind of season that comes out of a video game. Catchers just don’t put up numbers like this. Seriously, no catcher did or has since, as it’s considered the greatest offensive season ever from the position. From his trade from LA, friction with Vin Scully, and his Hall of Fame induction as a Met, LA, and Piazza have a bit of an estranged relationship these days. Still, the numbers from that season will leave even the most bitter fan in awe.

1.  Duke Snider (1953)

The Numbers: .336/.419/.627 42 HR 126 RBI 16 SB 165 OPS+ 9.3 WAR

“The Duke of Flatbush” put together a ridiculous five-year stretch for himself, starting in 1953. He would hit at least 40 homers through the ‘57 season, including nearly 600 RBI. His next couple of seasons were as good offensively, but ‘53 probably represents Duke’s best overall body of work. With numbers like these, paired with championship glory and a Hall of Fame induction, the career of Duke Snider remains one of the franchise’s all-time treasures.

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1. Sandy Koufax (1963)

The Numbers: W/L 25-5 1.88 ERA 311 IP 306 K 1.85 FIP WHIP 0.875

The most talented Dodger who ever lived. One could make the argument that ‘65 was, in fact, Sandy’s best year. That year he did win the World Series, Cy Young, threw a perfect game, and struck out 382 batters. (whaaa?) However, he was also pretty decent in 1963. Sandy won MVP, CY Young, threw a no-hitter against the Giants, and led the way in sweeping the MnM Boys in the World Series. Making history against the Giants and Yankees? Can’t think of a better way to represent the Dodger brand. Unless…

1. Jackie Robinson (1947)

The Numbers .297/.383./.427 12 HR 48 RBI 29 SB

A true hero. He won rookie of the year and helped lead Brooklyn to game 7 of the World Series, but statistically speaking, this year probably doesn’t belong at number one. However, when one considers the scope of the impact it had on our game and our country, it’s the greatest season anyone has ever had, ever. In any sport. It’s better than any film released by the best filmmakers in the world and far more important than your favorite album of all time. Jackie Robinson helped shape our country and world into the place it is today. For that reason, he will always remain the greatest Dodger. His play was phenomenal, but his heart was legendary.

Next: Are the Dodgers turning the team over to the youngsters?

Honorable Mentions:

Roy Campanella (1951), (1955), Don Sutton (1980), Dazzy Vance (1924), Andy Messersmith (1975)

Gil Hodges (1954), Pedro Guerrero (1985), Reggie Smith (1977), Jackie Robinson (1951)

Jim Winn (1974), Don Newcombe (1949) (1956), Orel Hershiser (1985), Zack Wheat (1925)

Clayton Kershaw (2011), (2013), (2015), Dolph Camili (1941), Steve Garvey (1977), Mike Marshall (1974), Don Drysdale (1964), Duke Snider (1954) (1955), Steve Garvey (1974), Sandy Koufax (1964) (1965) (1966)