On April 10, 1962, the Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers played the first game at Dodger Stadium in front of 52,564 fans. A three-run homer by by Wally Post broke a 2-2 tie in the seventh inning and propelled the reigning National League champions to a 6-3 victory over the Dodgers.
Johnny Padres allowed five runs on 11 hits in 7.1 innings and suffered the loss. Ron Fairly’s two-run double in the fourth inning made up much of the Dodgers’ offensive attack. Pinch-hitter Andy Carey added an RBI single in the ninth inning.
Dodger Stadium is currently the third-oldest ballpark behind Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. Much of its original state remains intact, with the organization focusing on upgrading the concourses and infrastructure throughout the years.
In July 2019, the Dodgers announced a slew of forthcoming renovations that were planned in conjunction with the team being due to host the 2020 MLB All-Star Game. The project includes a center field plaza entrance, new food and drink options, entertainment and retail areas, Legends of Dodger Baseball plaques, bridged concourse across outfield pavilion, and elevators in left and right field servicing all stadium levels, among other additions.
The city of Los Angeles agreed to exchange over 350 acres of land in Chavez Ravine to the then-Brooklyn Dodgers to build a stadium. Construction began in 1959 and the team originally planned to open Dodger Stadium in 1961, but landslides and lawsuits delayed construction.
Prior settling into their new home, the Dodgers played four seasons at the the Los Angeles Coliseum. In addition to Dodger Stadium playing host to the Dodgers in their inaugural year, it was also home for the Los Angeles Angels for three seasons.
Dodger Stadium has hosted 10 World Series, with the Dodgers winning four championships. The team has also won eight NL pennants and 15 NL West titles. In recent years, the venue has served as a backdrop for concerts and an NHL hockey game.
