Legendary Los Angeles Dodgers scout Mike Brito passed away on July 7 at the age of 87. His influence in the organization spanned more than 40 years, and his contributions to the game of baseball are endless.
Brito’s signing of Fernando Valenzuela put his name on the map in the Dodgers organization, and he went on to sign more than 30 players played in the Majors. Along with Valenzuela, the group included Robert “Bobby” Castillo, Julio Urías, Yasiel Puig, Ismael Vadez, Antonio Osuna, Juan Castro and Dennis Reyes.
Many current and former members of the Dodgers have reflected on Brito’s life and his influence on the game, and when the team arrived at Busch Stadium for their series with the St. Louis Cardinals, a tribute was waiting in the press box.
Brito’s iconic Panama hat, cigar, and radar gun in hand became a fixture at Dodger Stadium and synonymous with who he was. The Cardinals organization paid tribute to him by placing a Panama hat and a name card commemorating his life.
Tribute to #Dodgers legendary scout Mike Brito in Busch Stadium press box pic.twitter.com/pGOasCQdDu
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) July 12, 2022
The native of Cuba was part of the Washington Senators’ Minor League System from 1955-61 and went on to play professionally in Mexico from 1961-66. After moving to L.A. in 1968, his work as a Mexican League scout propelled him to the Dodgers and into the fabric of their organization.
Brito is survived by his wife, Rosario, two daughters, Diana and Minerva, and four granddaughters.
Mike Brito career awards
Brito was elected to the Cuban Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005 and was named International Scout of the Year at the 2014 Winter Meetings in San Diego. Last year, he was the recipient of Baseball America’s 2021 Tony Gwynn Award for his lifetime of contributions to the game.
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