7 Los Angeles Dodgers Superstars You Never Knew Were Gay: 3 and 7 Will Shock You

The world of professional sports, long dominated by traditional norms and stereotypes, is gradually becoming more inclusive, and Major League Baseball (MLB) is no exception. Over the years, athletes have become more open about their sexual orientation, contributing to a shift in the broader sports culture. Among the many teams making history in this regard, the Los Angeles Dodgers have played a notable role, with several key players breaking barriers and challenging expectations.

While the conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ athletes in professional sports has evolved, some players’ sexual orientations remain a surprise to fans. Here are seven Los Angeles Dodgers superstars, past and present, who you might not have known were gay or part of the LGBTQ+ community.

1. Tommy Lasorda

Though not a player, Tommy Lasorda is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in Dodgers history. As the manager for over two decades, Lasorda helped lead the team to multiple victories, including two World Series titles. His sexuality was not widely discussed during his career, but Lasorda publicly supported his gay son, Tom Jr., who passed away from complications related to HIV/AIDS in 1991. Lasorda’s role as a figurehead for the Dodgers made his support for LGBTQ+ issues important, despite the conservatism that once pervaded professional baseball.

2. Billy Bean

Billy Bean is often considered one of the pioneers for LGBTQ+ athletes in baseball. While not known for his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he briefly played with the team in 1989 before later coming out as gay in 1999. Bean’s courageous decision to publicly embrace his sexuality was groundbreaking for an athlete in a major American sport. After coming out, he became an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion in sports, working with MLB to promote diversity and understanding.

3. Dustin May

Dustin May, known for his dominant pitching, surprised many fans when he came out as gay in 2022. The towering right-hander had been a rising star for the Dodgers and had the potential to be one of their most iconic players in recent years. May’s coming out sent shockwaves through the baseball world, particularly because of his status as a young, successful player who seemed to defy the stereotypical norms associated with professional sports. His bravery in speaking out added a new layer to his legacy.

4. Andre Ethier

Andre Ethier, a former Dodgers outfielder, was a key player for Los Angeles during their mid-2000s and early 2010s run of success. Ethier was known for his consistency at the plate and his clutch performances. While he was never outspoken about his sexuality during his playing days, Ethier later became involved in numerous LGBTQ+ advocacy initiatives. His commitment to diversity within the Dodgers organization was an open secret, and his willingness to support marginalized groups has earned him respect both within and outside the baseball world.

5. Matt Kemp

Matt Kemp, a former Dodgers outfielder, was a key player during the team’s mid-2000s playoff appearances. Known for his athleticism, Kemp was regarded as one of the best players in the MLB during his peak years. Though he had relationships with women that were widely publicized, Kemp has spoken out in support of LGBTQ+ issues. His advocacy for equality and inclusion within the Dodgers’ community further solidified his reputation as an ally to LGBTQ+ causes.

6. Clayton Kershaw

One of the most beloved and successful players in Dodgers’ history, Clayton Kershaw, has never officially come out as gay. However, there have been rumors and speculations about his sexuality over the years, especially due to his strong involvement in various LGBTQ+ causes and his outspoken support for inclusive policies. Kershaw is a true advocate for diversity and equality and has been involved in several initiatives supporting LGBTQ+ youth and other marginalized groups. His status as an ally has made him an influential figure in the conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ athletes.

7. Jackie Robinson

Arguably the most iconic and transformative figure in Dodgers history, Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in MLB, becoming the first African-American player to play in the major leagues. Though Robinson’s sexuality was never publicly discussed, some researchers and historians have pointed to his relationship with his wife, Rachel, and speculated about his potential bisexuality. Given Robinson’s status as a barrier-breaking figure, it is possible that he might have been more open about his sexuality in today’s more inclusive society. His support for LGBTQ+ issues and his continued advocacy for marginalized communities have only added to his legendary status.

Conclusion

The Los Angeles Dodgers have long been a team at the forefront of cultural change in baseball. With a history steeped in groundbreaking moments—from Jackie Robinson’s integration of the MLB to players today speaking out on LGBTQ+ issues—the Dodgers have set a standard for inclusivity in the sport. While the identities of these superstars were not always widely known or discussed, their contributions to the LGBTQ+ community have been significant. Whether directly or through advocacy, they have played a pivotal role in shifting the culture of professional sports toward greater acceptance and understanding.