Oct. 1, 1964 - A brand-new coaching staff will assist newly rehired Walter Alston in handling the Dodgers in 1965.
Jim Gilliam (pictured) is in as an Alston aide, and Leo Durocher is out, general manager Buzzie Bavasi announced before today’s ballgame.
Two former managers of L.A.’s Spokane farm, Danny Ozark and Preston Gomez, and Harold (Lefty) Phillips, a Dodger scout since 1951, join Gilliam on Alston’s staff.
Durocher is leaving L.A. at his own request. Bavasi said Leo recently informed him he wanted his release so he could negotiate a managerial job, presumably in the National League.
It has been widely rumored that the colorful Durocher would return to St. Louis to run the Cardinals, for whom he starred at shortstop during the Gashouse Gang era.
Asked to confirm the report, Durocher said, “My hands are tied. I just can’t say. However, Buzzie has known for several months that I was interested in seeking a manager’s job.”
Gilliam who turns 36 Oct. 17, has been in the Dodger organization for 14 years. After two seasons with Montreal, the versatile player became the National League rookie of the year in 1953. He has played on five pennant winners and three championship clubs.
He will be the third Negro to serve as a coach in the National League. Gene Baker did a stint with the Pirates and Buck O’Neil was with the Cubs for a brief period.
“This new job took me by surprise,” Gilliam grinned. “I didn’t know a thing until I came to the park this afternoon.
“I know the players, and they know me, and things won’t be any different between us. The Dodgers could have traded me several times in the past but didn’t, and it’s gratifying to know that they still want me at this stage of the game.
“I’m going to keep in shape, just in case they might need me to play next year.” Under league rules, a coach can be activated as a player only once in a season.
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