Dodgers: Ranking the Top 5 centerfielders in franchise history

4. Best Dodgers centerfielders: Brett Butler

Brett Butler reached his prime with the Dodgers, despite signing with them at age 34. The former Giant is widely considered to be one of the premier leadoff hitters of the 80’s and 90’s. Although never a power threat, he combined speed with a great approach at the plate and was known for using the entire field. He also built a reputation for his exceptional bunting ability.

Butler’s first year in LA was arguably the best of his career. He hit .296 with 38 steals, and walked an absurd 108 times compared to just 79 strikeouts, as well as placing seventh in MVP voting and making his lone All-Star appearance.

Butler gave the Dodgers consistent production from the leadoff spot for the next three seasons, until signing with the Mets in 1995. However, the Dodgers missed his presence atop the lineup and traded for him at the Deadline.

All was seemingly going well for Butler and the Dodgers until his throat cancer early the following season. Butler defied all odds and completed his treatment early enough to return to the team in September. He had one more productive season in LA before calling it quits at age 40. He compiled a .298 average and .768 OPS with the Dodgers over seven seasons, as well as 179 steals and struck out 338 times compared to 432 walks.