LOS ANGELES -- Even before the Dodgers could present Hall of Famer Tommy Lasorda a division title for his 90th birthday Friday night, the club held an on-field pregame ceremony to mark the occasion, with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred among attending dignitaries.
"Tommy is a great Dodger, a great Hall of Famer and a great American," said Manfred, who praised Lasorda for his service to the game, including being ambassador for the World Baseball Classic.
"Tommy played a key role in making the tournament what it is today," said Manfred.
Fred Claire, former Dodgers general manager and Lasorda's boss, pointed out the timing of Lasorda's birthday and the current status of the team.