THE GREAT MANNY MOTA
Manny played 13 incredible years with the Dodgers
Batting .315, In the course of those 13 years he only struck out 127 times. Now a days, players we consider to be great strike out that many times or more in a single season. Along with having over 600 hits, 226 Runs Batted In, 22 Triples and 66 Doubles, he was the best at leading off, getting on base and scoring. Ending his career by setting a record for Pinch Hitting at 150. He retired in 1980, but was briefly activated to play for the 1981 season and the world series. Helping the Dodgers win during the stretch run. He has been part of the Dodger organization for over 40 years and has had a major impact on all levels. A true Dodger legend.
Few people remain who witnessed Roberto Clemente play. Far less had a chance to play with the great Clemente
I had the opportunity to interview Manny Mota at a toy drive, for the Manny Mota International Foundation, in Pico Rivera. He was very humble and friendly.
Who was the toughest pitcher you ever faced?
"Sandy Koufax! Oh yeah. I struck out a lot"
How was Roberto Clemente on and off the field?
"He had a Great work ethic and a positive mentality. Outside of baseball, he was mainly a humanitarian. He loved helping people in any way he could."
How was Roberto as a teammate?
"Very Playful. What he had, he shared with everyone and treated everyone with respect. Excellent teammate. He was very proud to be Latino."
Did Roberto guide you or mentor you?
"He was a very gifted baseball player, but mostly as a batter. Roberto would always talk about the game with excitement and enthusiasm, he always wanted to win. He would encourage me and show me some batting techniques and explain certain things to hit better. Eventually my results came because of him."
How was Tommy Lasorda?
"Tommy was an uplifting motivational coach with alot of spirit. He encouraged his players to perform better and have a winning mentality. Very positive."
How did you prepare for 1966 when you Batted .332?
"I started preparing before spring training while back at home in Santo Domingo. I had faith in God and always had a positive mindset."
Immediately after arriving in L.A. you started having an impact with huge results, what helped or changed from what you were doing in Montreal/Pittsburgh?
"My preparation and mindset remained the same. What helped out the most was the climate change. The sunny and hotter climate made me want to play better since I came from a village where majority of the time the climate was hot. Also playing in Dodger Stadium with the support from the fans in L.A. brought out the excitement and best in me."
How did the team approach the game while you were a coach?
"Everyone played the game Seriously, Physically most importantly Mentally. Everyone treated each other and others with respect."
After retiring as an athlete with the Dodger organization, Manny and his wife Margarita, having been married for a beautiful 50 plus years, started The Manny Mota International Foundation
Manny and Margarita Mota
For over 30 years now the Foundation has been providing Educational, Health and Recreational opportunities dedicated to the underprivileged youth and people in the Dominican Republic. They also provide every day necessities we take for granted like a hot meal, water and toys.
Thank you to Manny Mota and Jose Montañez, it was an Honor and Privilege to have met you. I was educated and informed on this great foundation and mission to give back to the less fortunate in any way possible.
To learn more and make a donation visit the website at www.mannymotafoundation.com/
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