This Day in Walter O’Malley History:

  • Walter O’Malley writes a letter to Dodger stockholder James A. Mulvey, President of Samuel Goldwyn Productions, asking him to obtain from Thomas Brothers in Los Angeles an L.A. County Map booklet that shows Elysian Park and Chavez Ravine. “You will note that this is the general area where Hollywood Freeway crosses Harbor Freeway and ties up with Santa Anna (sp.) Freeway and San Bernardino Freeway. Also there are quick connection roads to Sunset and Glendale Boulevards. On page 44 of the booklet just to the right of the center on the top you will find Chavez Ravine Road. This particular map shows the freeways more clearly. There are about four hundred acres of sandy hills and undeveloped land in this area behind the Police Barracks. I wish you to drive out to the location at your convenience and study it. When you return to New York, we will have some interesting observations to compare.”

  • According to The Sporting News, Walter O’Malley received an award from comedian Bob Hope at the Los Angeles Times 15th Annual National Sports Award Dinner in preparation for the Dodgers’ first season on the West Coast. Hope said, “They’ve tried Wrigley Field, the Rose Bowl and the Coliseum on for size and now they should try Zsa Zsa Gabor’s rumpus room if they’re still looking for a place to play. Looks like Walter O’Malley may be the first man in history to play house-to-house baseball!” O’Malley responded, “We’re not worried about referendum day, but opening day. Thereafter we’ll have to worry about the seven other National League clubs. They’ll be most uncooperative. We sincerely believe you will enjoy major league baseball and we are proud to be able to bring it to you.” Oscar Ruhl, From the Ruhl Book, The Sporting News, January 8, 1958