Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Steve Garvey

How Steve Garvey built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Steve Garvey is a former Major League Baseball first baseman, known for his successful career with the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres from 1969 to 1987. A ten-time All-Star, Garvey was recognized for his consistent hitting, fielding, and leadership. He won the 1974 National League MVP award and was a key player in multiple World Series appearances. Off the field, his image was carefully cultivated, contributing to his popularity, though later controversies impacted his public persona.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

June 1966: Drafted by Minnesota Twins

In June 1966, Garvey was drafted in the third round by the Minnesota Twins in the amateur draft, though he chose to attend Michigan State University instead.

1968: Drafted by Los Angeles Dodgers

In 1968, Garvey was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1st round of the MLB draft, marking a significant step in his professional baseball career.

September 1, 1969: Major League Debut

On September 1, 1969, at the age of 20, Garvey made his Major League debut, appearing as a pinch hitter for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

1969: Began Major League Career with Dodgers

In 1969, Garvey began his major league career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking the start of his professional baseball journey.

July 21, 1970: First Home Run

On July 21, 1970, Garvey hit his first home run off Carl Morton while playing third base for the Dodgers.

June 13, 1973: Infield Partnership Began

On June 13, 1973, Garvey formed part of a long-lasting infield partnership with Ron Cey, Bill Russell, and Davey Lopes for the Dodgers.

1973: Moved to First Base

In 1973, Garvey moved to first base for the Dodgers following the retirement of Wes Parker.

1974: All-Star Game Starter and NL MVP Award

In 1974, Garvey started an All-Star Game as a write-in vote, won the NL MVP award, and began a streak of six 200-hit seasons.

1974: All-Star Game MVP

In 1974, Garvey was selected to play in the All-Star game and won the All-Star Game MVP Award.

1974: National League MVP Award

In 1974, Garvey won the National League (NL) Most Valuable Player Award, recognizing his outstanding performance in the league.

September 3, 1975: Consecutive Games Streak Started

On September 3, 1975, Garvey began his streak of 1,207 consecutive games played.

1977: Fourth Straight Gold Glove Award

In 1977, Garvey won his fourth straight Gold Glove Award, recognizing his defensive excellence.

1978: National League Championship Series MVP

In 1978, Garvey was named the National League Championship Series MVP, highlighting his pivotal role in the Dodgers' success.

1978: All-Star Game MVP

In 1978, Garvey won the All-Star Game MVP Award.

1978: NLCS MVP Award

In 1978, during the National League Championship Series, Garvey hit four home runs, earning him the League Championship Series Most Valuable Player Award.

1981: World Series Winner

In 1981, Garvey was a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers team that won the World Series, securing a major championship victory.

1981: Roberto Clemente Award

In 1981, Garvey won the Roberto Clemente Award, honoring his sportsmanship, community involvement, and individual contribution to his team.

December 1982: Signed with the Padres

In December 1982, Garvey signed a five-year contract with the San Diego Padres for $6.6 million. The signing was ranked as the 15th best free agent signing ever by Sports Illustrated as of 2008.

1982: Signed with San Diego Padres

In 1982, after Garvey signed with the San Diego Padres, the Dodgers kept his number 6 out of circulation.

July 29, 1983: Consecutive Games Streak Ended

On July 29, 1983, Garvey's streak ended at 1,207 consecutive games played (from September 3, 1975) when he broke his thumb in a collision at home plate against the Atlanta Braves.

1983: Garvey Media Group Started

In 1983, while playing for the Padres, Garvey started Garvey Media Group, focusing on sports marketing and corporate branding.

1984: Error-Free Season

In 1984, Garvey became the only first baseman in MLB history to play 150 or more games without committing any errors, achieving a remarkable defensive milestone.

1984: Second NLCS MVP Award

In 1984, Garvey was once again named a National League Championship Series MVP for the second time in his career, cementing his legacy. He hit a dramatic walk-off home run to win Game Four of the Championship Series for the Padres.

1984: National League Pennant

In 1984, led by Garvey, who won his second National League Championship Series MVP award, the Padres won their first National League pennant over the Chicago Cubs.

May 23, 1987: Final Game Appearance

On May 23, 1987, Garvey made his final appearance in a game, pinch-hitting for Lance McCullers.

1987: Ended playing career

In 1987, Garvey's playing career ended while he was with the San Diego Padres, marking the conclusion of his time as a professional baseball player.

1988: Headed Garvey Communications

In 1988, Garvey headed Garvey Communications, which was mainly involved in television production including infomercials.

1988: Padres Retired Garvey's Number

In 1988, the San Diego Padres retired Garvey's No. 6 jersey, honoring his contributions to the team.

1999: Involvement with Enforma Natural Products

In 1999, Garvey appeared in infomercials for Fat Trappers and Exercise in a Bottle, produced by Enforma Natural Products, leading to controversy and lawsuits against the company.

2011: Fired From Marketing Department

In 2011, Garvey was fired by the Dodgers from their marketing department after publicly expressing his intent to be part of an ownership group to buy the team.