Larry Sherry was a renowned relief pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, best known for his heroic performance and his role as the MVP in the 1959 World Series. Born on July 25, 1935, in California, Sherry faced adversity from the start as he was born with clubfoot. Despite this challenge, he wore casts on both his legs during the first year of his life and special shoes thereafter, showing his determination and resilience from an early age.
Before making his mark in the major leagues, Sherry had to overcome his physical limitations and prove his skills on the baseball field. His dedication and hard work paid off when he joined the Dodgers and became a key player in their bullpen. In the 1959 World Series, Sherry showcased his pitching prowess by contributing to all four of the Dodgers' victories and maintaining an impressive 0.71 ERA over nearly 13 innings.
Sherry's success on the baseball diamond was not limited to his individual achievements. His brother, Norm Sherry, also had a career in the majors and later transitioned to coaching with teams like the San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants. The Sherry brothers' shared passion for the game and their mutual support for each other's careers exemplified the strong bond and camaraderie within their family.
In addition to his family ties and professional accomplishments, Larry Sherry was a trailblazer in his own right as one of the few Jewish baseball players in the major leagues during his era. Alongside legends like Hank Greenberg, Sherry represented a minority group in the sport and broke barriers to pave the way for future generations of Jewish athletes in baseball.
Throughout his career, Sherry's contributions to the Dodgers and the sport of baseball as a whole were significant and enduring. His impact both on and off the field left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire fans and players alike. Larry Sherry's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and passion in achieving greatness in the face of obstacles.