It was decided a couple years ago, but this Saturday it becomes official: A section of Interstate 5 in Orange County will be named the Tommy Lasorda Memorial Highway. This is tied to California legislature bill ACR 67, authored by Los Angeles and Orange County representative Sharon Quirk-Silva.
Lasorda, who passed away in 2021, moved to Fullerton when the Dodgers came to LA and lived there the rest of his life. The area is just a few miles from Angel Stadium in Anaheim, but because of Lasorda’s deep ties to the area, they chose that spot.
“Tommy Lasorda embodied the spirit and love of the game of baseball, dedicating his life to the game by managing one of the most successful baseball franchises and encouraging the success of his players. It was Lasorda’s humanitarianism and spirit of goodwill towards kids everywhere that made him a legend,” said Quirk-Silva. “Because of Tommy Lasorda’s generosity to provide opportunities for kids, it is only fitting that we celebrate his recognition at the West Fullerton Little League Opening Day. He was an icon; a generous humanitarian with boundless enthusiasm. I thank the Dodgers organization for working with my office and the state of California to honor a Dodger hero.”
According to Dodgers Insider, the ceremony will kick off the opening ceremonies of the West Fullerton Little League. Quirk-Silva will be in attendance along with Laura Lasorda, Tommy’s daughter, and former Dodger Eric Karros.
Dodgers CEO Stan Kasten said the team is partnering with the Assemblymember on the honor.
“We are very happy to be partnering with Assemblymember Quirk-Silva to honor Tommy Lasorda in such a meaningful way,” said Stan Kasten, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Dodgers. “Fullerton held a very special place in Tommy’s heart, and we know how proud he would be to be standing here today.”
The section of I-5 being named for Lasorda is just north of Disneyland, between Ball Road and Lincoln Avenue. The signs have been in place for a while, but the name will become official this weekend.
Have you signed up for the Dodgers Nation newsletter yet? Get the latest news, rumors, highlights and more right in your inbox every day! Keep up to date on every single thing involving your boys in blue!
