LOS ANGELES — Al “The Bull” Ferrara, a celebrated former outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers and a two-time World Series champion, passed away on Friday, as confirmed by the team. He was 84 years old at the time of his death.
“We are saddened to hear the news of Al Ferrara’s passing today,” expressed Dodgers President and CEO Stan Kasten in an official news release. “Al was not only a key player for the Dodgers during the vibrant 1960s but also a staunch supporter of the Dodgers community initiatives. His unwavering commitment to the organization and its alumni was remarkable. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family during this difficult time.”
Born on December 22, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York, Ferrara made his Major League Baseball debut with the Dodgers at the young age of 23 in 1963. Over the course of his five seasons with the Dodgers from 1963 to 1968, he contributed significantly to three National League pennant-winning teams and partook in two World Series victories in 1963 and 1965, though he did not appear in either championship series on the field. His only appearance in a World Series came in 1966, where he managed a single hit in his only at-bat during the Dodgers’ sweep by the Baltimore Orioles, losing 4-0.
Ferrara enjoyed a standout year in 1967, boasting an impressive batting average of .277, alongside 16 home runs and 50 RBIs, culminating in an .812 OPS. This stellar performance earned him the esteemed title of Dodger of the Year, an accolade presented annually to the team’s most valuable player.
After his tenure in Los Angeles, Ferrara was selected by the newly established expansion team, the San Diego Padres, during the 1968 expansion draft. He played for the Padres for more than two seasons from 1969 to 1971, showcasing a batting average of .265, with 27 home runs and 109 RBIs, while maintaining a .795 OPS. Ferrara concluded his professional baseball career with a final season at the Cincinnati Reds in 1971 before calling it quits on his MLB journey.
Over his eight-year MLB career, Ferrara accumulated a career batting average of .259, totaling 51 home runs and 198 RBIs, alongside a .768 OPS. In 2009, he returned to the Dodgers organization as an alumni ambassador, actively engaging in public appearances and contributing to the local community on behalf of the team.
In addition to his baseball accolades, Ferrara pursued an acting career, where he made notable appearances during and after his time in the league. His first foray into acting was in a 1967 episode of “Gilligan’s Island,” and his portfolio later expanded to include roles in productions like “Batman,” “Riot on Sunset Strip,” “Baretta,” “Mansion of the Doomed,” and “Dracula’s Dog,” as detailed on his IMDb page.
Al Ferrara leaves behind a legacy of passion for the game and is survived by his son, Al III, along with two cherished grandchildren.
What were Al Ferrara’s most notable achievements during his time with the Dodgers?
**Interview with Dodger Historian and Sports Commentator, Mike Thompson**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mike. We are mourning the loss of Al Ferrara, a cherished figure in Dodgers history. What can you tell us about his significance to the team and its culture?
**Mike Thompson:** Thanks for having me. Al Ferrara was more than just a player; he was a vibrant part of the Dodgers’ legacy during a transformative era in baseball. His contributions on the field in the 1960s were pivotal, and he really embodied the spirit of the team. The Dodgers were a dominant force in those years, and Ferrara played a key role, especially with his standout performance in 1967.
**Editor:** Indeed, he was named Dodger of the Year in 1967. Can you highlight the attributes that made his performance that year memorable?
**Mike Thompson:** Absolutely. In 1967, Ferrara had a batting average of .277, hit 16 home runs, and racked up 50 RBIs. Those numbers are impressive for any player, and they underscored his importance to the team’s offense. He was an all-around player who could change the game with a swing of the bat. His work ethic and love for the game truly set him apart.
**Editor:** His impact extended beyond the field as well, didn’t it? How did Ferrara contribute to the Dodgers’ community initiatives, as noted in the team’s statement?
**Mike Thompson:** Yes, Al was known for his commitment to the Dodgers community initiatives. He stayed active in the organization long after his playing career ended, always supporting alumni events and youth programs. His dedication to giving back mirrored the values the Dodgers encourage. It was this devotion that endeared him to fans and future generations of players alike.
**Editor:** It’s touching to see how he will be remembered. As a sports historian, how do you think Ferrara’s legacy will be viewed in the context of the Dodgers’ storied history?
**Mike Thompson:** Al Ferrara’s legacy will certainly be celebrated within the context of Dodger history. He played during a golden era and contributed to the foundation of what would become one of the most successful franchises in baseball. Future fans and historians will remember him not just for his stats but for his character and impact on both players and supporters. His passing is indeed a significant loss, but his spirit will always live on in the hearts of Dodgers fans.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Mike. Al Ferrara will be deeply missed, but it’s clear his contributions will never be forgotten.
**Mike Thompson:** Thank you for having me. It’s important we honor his memory.
