Russell's journey in professional baseball began when he was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 9th round of the 1966 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut on April 7, 1969, with the Dodgers. Initially, Russell played as an outfielder, but his career took a significant turn when he was converted into a shortstop. This transition allowed him to become an integral part of the Dodgers' infield, which included other notable players like Steve Garvey, Davey Lopes, and Ron Cey. Together, they formed a solid infield unit that played a crucial role in the team's success during the 1970s and early 1980s.
Throughout his playing career, Russell was known for his defensive skills and consistency on the field. He was not a power hitter, but he contributed to the team's offense with his ability to get on base and execute plays. Over his 18-year playing career, all with the Dodgers, Russell compiled a batting average of .263, with 46 home runs and 627 RBIs. His performance earned him three All-Star selections in 1973, 1976, and 1980.
Russell's tenure with the Dodgers as a player was marked by several team achievements. He was part of the Dodgers' World Series-winning team in 1981, a highlight of his playing career. The Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees in six games, and Russell's experience and leadership were valuable assets to the team during this championship run.
After retiring as a player in 1986, Russell transitioned into coaching and management. He remained with the Dodgers organization, taking on various roles. In 1992, he became the team's third base coach, a position he held until 1994. His understanding of the game and his ability to mentor younger players made him a valuable asset to the coaching staff.
In 1996, Russell was appointed as the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, succeeding Tommy Lasorda. His managerial career with the Dodgers lasted until 1998. During his tenure, Russell faced the challenges of leading a team in transition, dealing with injuries, and managing player dynamics. Although his time as manager did not yield a playoff appearance, Russell's leadership and experience were respected within the organization.
After his managerial stint with the Dodgers, Russell continued to work in baseball, taking on various coaching and advisory roles with other teams. His long association with the sport, both as a player and a coach, reflects his deep understanding of the game and his ability to adapt to different roles within the baseball world.
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