Rick Monday – Los Angeles Dodgers: The Legendary Outfielder Who Saved the American Flag
Rick Monday’s career with the Los Angeles Dodgers stands as a testament to his lasting impact on the franchise. The two-time All-Star outfielder joined the Dodgers in 1977 after stints with the Athletics and Cubs, becoming an integral part of the team until 1984.
Monday’s most celebrated moment in Dodger blue came during the 1981 National League Championship Series. He hit a ninth-inning home run against the Montreal Expos in the decisive Game 5, propelling the Dodgers to the World Series they would eventually win.
Beyond his clutch hitting, Monday is remembered for his patriotic actions while still with the Cubs. In 1976, he famously rescued an American flag from protesters attempting to burn it at Dodger Stadium, an act that endeared him to fans nationwide before he ever donned Dodger blue. After his playing days, Monday continued his Dodger legacy as a broadcaster for the team, sharing insights from his 19-season MLB career spanning from 1966 to 1984.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Rick Monday’s journey from small-town Arkansas to baseball stardom began with humble roots before he became a standout collegiate athlete at Arizona State University and eventually the first-ever MLB draft pick.
Hometown of Batesville, AR
Rick Monday was born Robert James Monday on November 20, 1945, in Batesville, Arkansas. His early years in this small Arkansas town laid the foundation for his future baseball career, though his family would later relocate to California.
The Monday family moved to Santa Monica during Rick’s youth, which proved pivotal in his development as a baseball player. At Santa Monica High School, he graduated in 1962 and caught the attention of baseball scouts, including Tommy Lasorda, who would later become his manager with the Dodgers.
It was during his high school years that Monday’s exceptional talent became evident, setting him on a path to college baseball greatness.
Baseball at Arizona State University
Monday’s collegiate career at Arizona State University established him as one of college baseball’s elite players. From 1963 to 1965, he flourished under legendary coach Bobby Winkles, developing the skills that would make him a professional standout.
At ASU, Monday displayed exceptional batting power and defensive skills in the outfield. His performance earned him All-American honors and caught the attention of major league scouts across the country.
In 1965, Monday made history when the Kansas City Athletics selected him as the first-ever player in the inaugural MLB amateur draft. This watershed moment changed baseball forever and marked Monday as a permanent part of the sport’s history.
| Year at ASU | Batting Avg | Home Runs | Team Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1963 | .337 | 8 | 31-14 |
| 1964 | .359 | 10 | 54-8 |
| 1965 | .380 | 11 | 54-8 |
College World Series Achievements
Monday’s crowning collegiate achievement came when he led Arizona State to its first-ever College World Series championship in 1965. His clutch hitting and stellar defense proved instrumental in the Sun Devils’ triumph in Omaha.
During the 1965 championship run, Monday batted an impressive .378 in the tournament while playing flawless defense. He earned All-College World Series honors for his performance, cementing his legacy in ASU baseball history.
The 1965 championship team, with Monday as its star, established Arizona State as a collegiate baseball powerhouse for decades to come. His contributions to the program went beyond statistics, as his leadership qualities and competitive spirit elevated everyone around him.
Professional Baseball Career
Rick Monday’s baseball journey spans nearly two decades, featuring notable stints with three MLB franchises and several career-defining moments that have secured his place in baseball history.
Initial Draft and Kansas City Athletics
Rick Monday made baseball history as the very first player ever selected in the inaugural MLB Draft in 1965. The Kansas City Athletics chose the talented outfielder from Arizona State University with that historic first pick.
Monday debuted in the majors in 1966 and spent his first six professional seasons with the Kansas City/Oakland Athletics organization. During this formative period, he established himself as a reliable outfielder with decent power.
His time with the Athletics (1966-1971) showed promise, though he hadn’t yet reached his full potential. Monday hit a respectable .251 with 67 home runs during his tenure with the franchise as they transitioned from Kansas City to Oakland.
The young outfielder displayed flashes of his all-around talent, combining power with speed while playing solid defense in center field.
Notable Time with Chicago Cubs
Monday’s career took a significant upswing after being traded to the Chicago Cubs prior to the 1972 season. The change of scenery proved beneficial as he blossomed into an All-Star caliber player at Wrigley Field.
During his five seasons with the Cubs (1972-1976), Monday produced some of his finest statistical years. He earned his first All-Star selection in 1972, batting .272 while showing improved power and plate discipline.
Perhaps his most iconic moment as a Cub came on April 25, 1976, at Dodger Stadium. Monday rescued an American flag from protesters attempting to burn it in the outfield. This patriotic act earned him nationwide acclaim and remains one of baseball’s most memorable non-game moments.
| Year | Team | Games | Avg | HR | RBI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1972 | Cubs | 148 | .272 | 11 | 45 |
| 1973 | Cubs | 145 | .266 | 26 | 72 |
| 1976 | Cubs | 149 | .272 | 32 | 77 |
Transition to Los Angeles Dodgers
Following the 1976 season, Monday was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he would spend the remainder of his career (1977-1984). His transition to Dodger blue initially saw him in a starting role before eventually shifting to a valuable platoon and bench player.
Monday’s defining moment in Dodger blue came in Game 5 of the 1981 National League Championship Series against the Montreal Expos. With the series tied 2-2, his ninth-inning home run broke a scoreless tie and sent the Dodgers to the World Series.
This clutch homer, often called “Blue Monday” in Montreal, remains one of the most significant in Dodgers postseason history. The dramatic blast perfectly showcased Monday’s flair for the big moment.
His veteran leadership proved invaluable during the Dodgers’ successful early 1980s runs.
Achievements with the Dodgers
Monday’s Dodgers tenure culminated in several team achievements, most notably the 1981 World Series championship. This championship represented the peak of his team success after years of solid individual performance.
He earned his second All-Star selection in 1978 while with Los Angeles and was named NL Player of the Month in April of that same season. Monday’s consistent production and veteran presence made him a respected clubhouse leader.
Though his playing time decreased in later years, Monday maintained his effectiveness as a left-handed power threat off the bench. His professional approach and clutch hitting remained valuable assets to the Dodgers.
After retiring as a player following the 1984 season, Monday maintained his connection to the Dodgers organization by joining their broadcast team, where he continues to share his baseball knowledge with fans.
Memorable Moments
Rick Monday’s career with the Los Angeles Dodgers featured several unforgettable moments that cemented his legacy in baseball history. His actions both on and off the field demonstrated remarkable character, clutch performance, and patriotism.
Saving the American Flag
On April 25, 1976, Monday performed what many consider one of the most heroic acts in sports history. While playing center field for the Chicago Cubs against the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium, Monday noticed two protesters running onto the field with an American flag, intending to burn it.
Without hesitation, Monday sprinted across the outfield and snatched the flag away before they could set it aflame. The crowd erupted into an impromptu rendition of “God Bless America.”
The moment transcended baseball, earning Monday nationwide respect. He later donated the flag to the Baseball Hall of Fame and served as a spokesman for patriotic causes. Monday, who had served in the Marine Corps Reserves, commented that he was simply protecting a symbol that many Americans had died to protect.
Remarkable Home Runs
Monday’s power hitting provided Dodger fans with numerous thrilling moments throughout his career. He consistently delivered clutch hits when the team needed them most.
His most significant regular season contributions came during the 1981 and 1982 seasons, where he hit 11 and 18 home runs respectively. Monday’s smooth left-handed swing was perfectly suited for Dodger Stadium’s dimensions.
What made Monday special wasn’t just the quantity of home runs but the timing. He developed a reputation for delivering in high-pressure situations, often changing the momentum of games with a single swing.
| Season | Team | Home Runs | RBIs | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 | LAD | 11 | 35 | .254 |
| 1982 | LAD | 18 | 42 | .270 |
| 1983 | LAD | 11 | 41 | .259 |
Playoff and World Series Highlights
Monday’s defining moment as a Dodger came in Game 5 of the 1981 National League Championship Series against the Montreal Expos. With the series tied 2-2 in the ninth inning, Monday hit a dramatic home run off Steve Rogers that propelled the Dodgers to the World Series.
This clutch homer, nicknamed “Blue Monday” in Montreal, stands as one of the most significant in franchise history. Dodger broadcaster Vin Scully captured the moment perfectly with his call: “And there it goes! A home run! And the Dodgers have won it!”
Monday appeared in three World Series with the Dodgers (1977, 1978, and 1981), finally earning a championship ring in 1981 when Los Angeles defeated the New York Yankees.
Statistical Overview
Rick Monday’s numbers tell the story of a solid and sometimes spectacular 19-year career in Major League Baseball. His offensive production showcased both power and consistency, with significant contributions during critical playoff moments for the Dodgers.
Career Batting Stats
Monday finished his impressive career with a .264 batting average across nearly two decades in the majors. His power numbers stand out, with 241 home runs and 775 RBIs, making him a consistent run producer.
Monday’s career offensive statistics show a player who got on base consistently and hit for power:
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .264 |
| Home Runs | 241 |
| RBIs | 775 |
| OPS | .804 |
The left-handed outfielder demonstrated excellent plate discipline throughout his career, contributing to his solid .804 OPS. His tenure included stints with the Athletics, Cubs, and most memorably with the Dodgers.
Post-Season Performance
Monday’s playoff heroics cemented his legacy in Dodgers history. Most famously, he hit the game-winning home run in the decisive Game 5 of the 1981 NLCS against Montreal. That ninth-inning blast, known as “Blue Monday” to Expos fans, sent the Dodgers to the World Series.
His clutch hitting extended beyond that single moment. Monday delivered several key hits during Los Angeles’ championship runs, showing remarkable poise in high-pressure situations.
The veteran outfielder elevated his game when it mattered most. He provided not just offensive production but leadership during the Dodgers’ postseason appearances in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Weekly and Monthly Recognitions
Monday earned two All-Star selections during his career, highlighting seasons where his performance ranked among baseball’s elite. His peak years featured several NL Player of the Week honors, recognizing hot streaks when his batting average and power numbers spiked.
During his time with the Cubs, Monday put together several months of exceptional production that garnered NL Player of the Month consideration. These stretches typically featured elevated batting averages, home run totals, and RBI production that stood out even among the league’s top performers.
Monday’s consistent approach at the plate made him valuable throughout his career. Even as he aged, he maintained the ability to deliver timely hits and power when needed, which kept him in the lineup and earning recognition from around the league.
Legacy and Post-Playing Career
Rick Monday’s impact on baseball extends far beyond his playing days. His patriotic flag-saving moment at Dodger Stadium became an iconic piece of baseball history, while his broadcasting career and overall influence on the game cemented his place in Dodgers lore.
Los Angeles Dodgers Broadcaster
After hanging up his cleats in 1984, Monday quickly transitioned to the broadcast booth, becoming one of the longest-tenured voices for the Dodgers. Since 1993, he has served as a radio color commentator, bringing his deep baseball knowledge and player perspective to generations of fans.
Monday’s broadcasting style combines analytical insights with personal stories from his playing days. His chemistry with play-by-play partners has made him a beloved figure among Dodgers faithful.
In recent years, Monday has worked alongside Charley Steiner, forming one of baseball’s most respected broadcasting teams. His distinctive voice and thoughtful analysis have become synonymous with Dodgers baseball for nearly three decades.
Hall of Fame Consideration
While Monday hasn’t received strong Hall of Fame consideration, his career numbers remain respectable. His 19-year career included some impressive statistics:
| Category | Total | Notable |
|---|---|---|
| Games | 1,986 | 19 seasons |
| Home Runs | 241 | |
| RBIs | 775 | |
| All-Star Selections | 2 | 1968, 1978 |
| Teams | 4 | Athletics, Cubs, Dodgers |
Monday’s career was marked by consistent production rather than spectacular seasons. His highest MVP voting finish came during his time with the Cubs in the mid-1970s, when he ranked among NL strikeout leaders but also demonstrated power and on-base skills.
His flag-saving incident has arguably received more lasting attention than his playing statistics.
Influence on Modern Baseball
Monday’s most enduring legacy stems from the April 25, 1976 incident when, as a Chicago Cub, he rescued an American flag from protesters attempting to burn it at Dodger Stadium. This patriotic moment is frequently replayed during July 4th celebrations and has become one of baseball’s most memorable non-game events.
As the first-ever #1 overall draft pick in MLB history (1965), Monday also holds a unique place in baseball’s developmental history. His selection by the Kansas City Athletics helped establish the importance of the draft in building competitive teams.
Monday’s broadcasting career has influenced how former players transition to media roles. His ability to provide insider perspective while maintaining journalistic standards has become a template for ex-players entering broadcasting.
Personal Life
Rick Monday’s life extends far beyond his baseball career with the Dodgers, encompassing meaningful family relationships, continued involvement in baseball post-retirement, and various charitable endeavors that have cemented his legacy beyond the diamond.
Life After Baseball
Following his playing career that ended in 1984, Monday seamlessly transitioned to broadcasting. He joined the Dodgers’ broadcast team in 1993 and has become a fixture in the booth ever since. His insightful commentary draws from his 19-year playing experience, bringing depth to game analysis.
Monday and his wife Barbaralyn have maintained a strong family life. They’ve been married for several decades and have children together. The family has primarily resided in Southern California since his time with the Dodgers.
His most famous moment—saving an American flag from being burned at Dodger Stadium in 1976—continues to define his post-baseball identity. The memorable save has connected him with veterans’ groups and patriotic organizations throughout his retirement.
Community Involvement
Monday’s commitment to community service focuses heavily on veterans’ causes. He regularly participates in events honoring military personnel, drawing from his own service in the Marine Corps Reserve during the Vietnam era.
The former All-Star dedicates significant time to Dodgers alumni activities, representing the organization at community outreach events, fantasy camps, and charity fundraisers. His approachable demeanor makes him a popular figure at these gatherings.
Monday also supports various children’s charities in the Los Angeles area. He’s been involved with hospital visits and youth baseball clinics, leveraging his status as a former player to inspire younger generations.
His flag-saving legacy has led to invitations to speak at patriotic events nationwide. He often uses these platforms to emphasize civic responsibility and respect for national symbols.
Personal Interests and Pursuits
An avid golfer, Monday frequently participates in celebrity tournaments and charity golf events. The sport has become his primary athletic outlet since retiring from baseball. He’s known to have a respectable handicap and enjoys the competitive nature of the game.
Monday maintains connections with former teammates through various alumni events. His relationships with fellow Dodgers players remain strong decades after his playing career ended.
Public speaking has become another avenue for Monday to share his experiences. He gives talks about his career highlights, including being the first-ever MLB draft pick in 1965 and his famous flag rescue.
Baseball memorabilia collecting represents another passion. Monday has assembled an impressive collection of items from his era, preserving the history of the game he dedicated his life to serving.
Notable Associations and Contemporaries
Rick Monday’s career with the Los Angeles Dodgers connected him with several legendary baseball figures who shaped the team’s history. His relationships with teammates and coaches created lasting bonds that extended beyond his playing days and into his broadcasting career.
Team Play with Bill Buckner
Rick Monday and Bill Buckner formed a notable connection during their overlapping time with the Dodgers. The two outfielders became teammates when Monday joined the Dodgers in 1977, though their time together was brief as Buckner was traded to the Chicago Cubs in 1977.
Their baseball paths had interesting parallels. Both were first-round draft picks and both played for the Dodgers and Cubs during their careers, just in opposite order. Monday came from the Cubs to the Dodgers, while Buckner went from LA to Chicago.
On the field, they complemented each other’s playing styles. Monday brought power hitting and defensive prowess in center field, while Buckner was known for his contact hitting and versatility in the field.
| Player | Years with Dodgers | Career Batting Avg | MLB All-Star Selections |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rick Monday | 1977-1984 | .264 | 2 (1968, 1978) |
| Bill Buckner | 1969-1976 | .289 | 1 (1981) |
Collaborations with Tommy Lasorda
Monday’s relationship with legendary Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda was one of mutual respect and success. When Lasorda took over as Dodgers manager in 1977 (the same year Monday joined the team), it began a fruitful partnership that would help define both of their careers.
Under Lasorda’s guidance, Monday experienced some of his career highlights, including his dramatic home run in Game 5 of the 1981 National League Championship Series that propelled the Dodgers to the World Series. Lasorda often praised Monday for his clutch performances and veteran leadership.
The two men shared a special baseball bond that extended beyond Monday’s playing days. Their relationship continued as Monday transitioned to broadcasting, where he often shared insights about Lasorda’s managerial style and impact on the Dodgers organization.
Monday’s understanding of Lasorda’s strategies made him particularly insightful when discussing the manager’s tactical decisions during broadcasts at Dodger Stadium.
Broadcasting Partnership with Vin Scully
After his playing career, Monday found himself in the broadcast booth alongside the voice of the Dodgers, Vin Scully. This partnership began Monday’s impressive 31-season career as a Dodgers broadcaster.
Monday’s baseball knowledge complemented Scully’s storytelling brilliance. While they didn’t always work in the same booth (Monday primarily handled radio while Scully was on television), their mutual respect was evident whenever they discussed each other’s work.
When Scully retired in 2016 after 67 legendary seasons, Monday continued the broadcasting tradition. That final season saw both Scully and Monday working together at KLAC, creating a historic broadcasting team.
Monday often credits Scully as a broadcasting mentor. In his book Tales from the Dodgers Dugout, Monday shares numerous anecdotes about learning from Scully’s preparation, professionalism, and unmatched ability to connect with listeners.
Cultural Impact
Rick Monday’s actions on and off the field have permanently etched his name into baseball lore and American culture. His most memorable moment transcended sports to become a powerful symbol of patriotism that still resonates today.
Iconic Moments in Pop Culture
Rick Monday’s flag-saving moment at Dodger Stadium on April 25, 1976, remains one of baseball’s most iconic non-athletic plays. The image of Monday rushing across the outfield to rescue the American flag from would-be protesters has been immortalized in countless baseball documentaries and highlight reels.
The moment occurred during America’s Bicentennial year, giving it added significance in the national consciousness.
Sports Illustrated featured the incident in their “100 Greatest Moments in Sports History,” and it regularly appears in baseball’s most memorable moments collections.
Monday’s action has been referenced in films, television shows, and books about baseball history and American patriotism. The moment has lived on through social media, where it regularly resurfaces on patriotic holidays.
Symbol of Patriotism
Monday’s rescue of the American flag from burning cemented his status as a patriotic figure. What makes this act particularly significant is Monday’s background as a six-year veteran of the Marine Corps Reserves.
The stadium crowd’s spontaneous singing of “God Bless America” following the incident demonstrates the emotional impact it had on witnesses. The Dodgers organization later presented Monday with the very flag he saved, which he has carefully preserved.
Monday has been invited to numerous military events and patriotic celebrations over the decades. His action has been used in educational contexts to discuss patriotism, protest rights, and civic responsibility.
| Recognition for Flag Rescue |
|---|
| Veterans of Foreign Wars Award (1976) |
| Marine Corps League – American Patriot Award |
| Featured in Marine Corps Training Materials |
Influence Beyond Baseball
As a Dodgers broadcaster for over three decades, Monday’s influence extends beyond his playing days. His distinctive voice and baseball insights have educated generations of Dodgers fans.
Monday has leveraged his cultural icon status to support various charitable causes, particularly those supporting veterans and military families. His annual charity golf tournament has raised millions for veterans’ organizations.
The Rick Monday Patriot Award was established to recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional citizenship and patriotism in their communities.
Monday’s story continues to inspire discussions about the meaning of patriotism in a divided America. His actions represent a rare moment of unity that crossed political lines.
Fantasy Baseball and Modern MLB Analysis
Rick Monday’s legacy bridges the gap between classic baseball and today’s analytical approach to the game. His career provides valuable insights for fantasy baseball enthusiasts and demonstrates how historical performances can inform modern player evaluation.
Rick Monday’s Relevance in Fantasy Baseball
In today’s fantasy baseball landscape, outfielders with Monday’s power-speed combination would be highly coveted assets. Rick Monday played well before fantasy baseball became mainstream, but his statistical profile matches what modern fantasy managers seek.
Monday’s career .264 batting average, 241 home runs, and 121 stolen bases would translate to a valuable five-category contributor in current fantasy formats. His peak seasons—particularly 1976 when he hit 32 home runs with the Cubs—would have made him an early-round draft pick.
Fantasy managers often target players with Monday’s balanced skill set. The 2025 Fantasy Baseball Draft Tracker shows similar outfielders being selected in premium slots.
Rick Monday’s Fantasy-Relevant Seasons:
| Year | Team | HR | SB | BA | OPS | Fantasy Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 | CHC | 32 | 8 | .272 | .853 | Elite OF |
| 1978 | LAD | 19 | 11 | .254 | .803 | Strong OF2 |
| 1979 | LAD | 21 | 7 | .291 | .862 | Premium OF |
Analyzing Historical Performance for Modern Comparisons
Monday’s performance metrics provide interesting comparison points for modern analytics. His career .804 OPS would translate well to today’s game, especially considering the different era in which he played.
The Dodgers’ current roster features several players with statistical profiles resembling Monday’s balanced approach. Modern analytics would likely value Monday’s power more than his speed, particularly his .446 slugging percentage during his Dodgers years.
His defensive contributions, including the famous flag-saving moment, would register positively in today’s defensive metrics. Monday’s versatility—playing all three outfield positions—mirrors the positional flexibility prized in current fantasy formats.
WAR calculations retroactively applied to Monday’s career suggest he was worth approximately 33 WAR, making him a solid but not elite player by modern standards.
Contributions to MLB News and Analysis
Following his playing career, Monday transitioned successfully to broadcasting and analysis roles. His insights as a Dodgers broadcaster have enriched fans’ understanding of the game for decades.
Monday’s analytical approach focuses on practical baseball knowledge rather than advanced statistics. He provides context to historical moments that newer analysts might miss, particularly regarding his famous 1981 NLCS home run against the Expos.
His perspectives on player development and roster construction occasionally appear in fantasy baseball advice columns. Monday represents the valuable bridge between traditional baseball wisdom and modern analytical frameworks.
Some former players resist analytical evolution, but Monday has embraced certain aspects of modern analysis while maintaining respect for traditional scouting approaches. This balanced perspective makes his commentary particularly valuable to fantasy managers seeking comprehensive player evaluations.
