The iconic Carl Erskine, who made a name for himself as a pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers and was affectionately known as “Risk” by his followers, died on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. He was 97 and passed away in Anderson, Indiana. His noteworthy Major League Baseball career, which lasted for 12 seasons (1948-1959), was entirely spent with the Dodgers, both in Brooklyn, New York City, and Los Angeles, California.
Erskine was known for his exceptional pitching skills, particularly his curveball, and his competitive spirit. He played a key role in leading the Dodgers to five National League pennants and their maiden World Series win in 1955. His 14 strikeouts against the New York Yankees in the 1953 World Series remains a record-setting performance, demonstrating his skill and composure in high-pressure situations.
Aside from his accomplishments on the pitching mound, Erskine was a beloved team member and the last surviving member of the “Boys of Summer,” the celebrated Dodgers teams of the 1950s. His no-hitters in 1952 against the Chicago Cubs and in 1956 against the New York Giants are unforgettable moments in the annals of baseball. Erskine’s contributions to the Dodgers’ legacy made him a favorite among fans, a status further cemented by his nickname, a tribute to the Brooklyn accent that playfully altered his surname.
Upon retirement, Erskine returned to his birthplace of Anderson, where he actively participated in community activities and philanthropic endeavors. Notably, he advocated for individuals with developmental disabilities, a cause close to his heart due to his son Jimmy, who had Down syndrome. His advocacy and fundraising efforts, particularly for the Special Olympics, demonstrated his commitment to enhancing the lives of others.
Erskine’s community service and his iconic status in sports were recognized through various accolades, including his induction into the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame and the naming of several memorials in his honor. A street in Brooklyn and a sports medicine center in Anderson now bear his name, paying tribute to his contributions both on and off the field.
Stan Kasten, the president and CEO of the Dodgers, lauded Erskine not just for his athletic achievements but also for his humanitarian work, stating, “Off the field, he was as heroic as he was in his remarkable pitching career, which speaks volumes about his character.”
Erskine’s legacy, particularly his advocacy for those with intellectual disabilities, continues to have a profound impact on the communities he served.
