Challenges Faced by Steve Garvey: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 29, 2025

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Steve Garvey's life and career.

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

1970: Modern Baseball Era Committee Consideration

Garvey was on the 10-candidate ballot that was considered by the Hall's Modern Baseball Era Committee (for the 1970–1987 era) in voting for 2018 and fell short of the 75% threshold.

1973: Expansion Era Committee Consideration

Garvey was considered by the Hall of Fame's Expansion Era Committee (for the 1973–present era) in voting for 2011 and 2014 but was not elected.

June 1976: Teammate Criticism

In mid-June 1976, Cey, Lopes, and another player criticized Garvey in a San Bernardino Sun-Telegram article, which led to team friction.

1978: Brawl with Don Sutton

In 1978, after an article in The Washington Post quoted Don Sutton complaining about Garvey's publicity, the two players had a brawl in the locker room at Shea Stadium.

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.

1987: Modern Baseball Era Committee Consideration

Garvey was on the 10-candidate ballot that was considered by the Hall's Modern Baseball Era Committee (for the 1970–1987 era) in voting for 2018 and fell short of the 75% threshold.

September 1, 2000: FTC Charges Filed

On September 1, 2000, Garvey and his management company were charged by the Federal Trade Commission for false advertising related to a weight-loss product.

2007: Final Year on Hall of Fame Ballot

In 2007, Garvey was on the National Baseball Hall of Fame ballot for the final time, receiving 21.1% of the votes.

2011: Hall of Fame Consideration

In 2011, Garvey was considered by the Hall of Fame's Expansion Era Committee but was not elected.

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.