Greatest Dodger Moments: A Grand Slam from Steve Finley for the NL West Crown

Dodgers Nation wants to wish a very happy 54th birthday to an unexpected Dodgers’ legend. On March 12, 1965, Steve Finley was born. Then, on October 2, 2004, he gave fans a moment that still resonates in Dodger lore.

In this case, we don’t think you have forgotten. Still – if your memory needs a polish – feast your eyes on the clip below.

We would like to wish Mr. Steve Finley a very Happy Birthday and thank him for one of the greatest moments in #Dodgers History with his Grand Slam Walk-Off to win the 2004 NL West vs. the Giants#Dodgers #DodgersNation pic.twitter.com/08MaYsYS4Q

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) March 12, 2019

I remember it like it was yesterday, although it was nearly 15 years ago. At that time, Chavez Ravine had images of the players still gracing the outfield wall. A nervous crowd of 54,594 packed the house at Dodger Stadium to see the Dodgers win the National League West crown on the strength of Finley’s grand salami.

However, the game entered the bottom of the ninth with high drama. The Giants held a 90 percent win probability – and closer Dustin Hermanson needed just two more outs. Long forgotten Jose Hernandez (the Kiké of his time) worked a walk. Then, Hee-Sop Choi and Cesar Itzturis willed their way aboard.

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Nevertheless, the forgotten moment that allowed for the Finley slam to become part of history is one worth mention. With the bases juiced, a guy named Jayson Werth singled to right field on a 2-2 pitch to score Hernandez and tie the game at three.

Obviously, the moment that came next is the one we’re honoring within this post. We love it because it’s a Hollywood ending you read about in a storybook. Taking down the hated rival on the next-to-last day of the season? Check. Finley put up an age-39 season you simply don’t see anymore. Alas, let’s look at why this memory is forever special to Dodgers fans!

Twitter Reactions: Remembering Steve Finley’s Grand Slam

This is one of those moments all dodger fans remember.

— Monstarr (@rancimo) March 12, 2019

My commemorative piece to that day.. one of my favorite @Dodgers moments ever. pic.twitter.com/T2PzzfRyq1

— Cam Junker (@camjunker) March 12, 2019

I remember watching this with my dad on TV. Both clutching couch pillows as they drew walks to bring Finley up and screaming our heads off as we yelled at Barry Bonds to "go home!" Watching them lose the series to the cardinals sucked but walking off on the giants is always fun

— It's not your fault (@citizen_irate) March 12, 2019

I was there that day and only stayed until the end because my then 4-year-old didn't want to leave! Thanks, @Wilderbuch! ??

— Christopher Buchanan (@affablechap) March 12, 2019

I still remember that. It was a saturday game and i was in my parents living room…im almost postive i teared up because it was first time i got to see the team go to the postseason haha. Good times.

— Richard (@dodgers921) March 12, 2019

I was at this game with my dad So awesome!!! was a sophomore in high school got 2 tickets off a friend from school for 6 bucks a piece for top deck. This whole inning leading up to this was just crazy

— chunks (@bd_chunks) March 12, 2019

That was the first game I ever went to, I remember everything about that game…oh good memories

— Joseph Olvera (@Joey247) March 12, 2019

The Vin Scully call:https://t.co/o61MxdN1q2

— David Higgins ?? (@David88Higgins) March 12, 2019

I was in Desert Palm in after going to the previous 2 games. My wife is sleeping on couch pregnant with my now 13 yr old daughter. When he hits that GS I quietly get up, go outside, walk about 25 feet away feom the condo and sceeaming like a little girl. #dontwakeupapregnantlady

— Eades (@eades73) March 12, 2019

I remember listening to this game on the radio while on the way to my friends wedding. I cheered as loud as i could from my car!!!

— Its good to be the king (@allthingsfelipe) March 12, 2019

Wish Steve Finley A Happy Birthday With Your Memory

Now is your chance to add your memory in the comments section. Indeed, we want you to share your vivid memory of this timeless moment in Dodgers history.

And if you ever see this post Steve: thank you from all of Dodgers Nation.