Luis Gonzalez, left, and Ken Kendrick | MLB.com/dbacks
Luis Gonzalez, left, and Ken Kendrick | MLB.com/dbacks
On Nov. 4, 2001, the Arizona Diamondbacks secured their first World Series title by defeating the New York Yankees 3-2 in Game 7.
The Diamondbacks, established in 1998, were a newer team in Major League Baseball. In contrast, the Yankees had a long history with multiple championships. The series was competitive, with both teams striving for the title.
Game 7 took place at Bank One Ballpark (renamed Chase Field in 2005) in Phoenix.
The pivotal moment came in the bottom of the ninth inning. The Diamondbacks were down 2-1. With the bases loaded, Diamondbacks left fielder Luis Gonzalez hit the ball to the outfield, allowing two runs to score, giving the Diamondbacks a 3-2 lead and the win.
This victory marked the Diamondbacks' first World Series title and the city's first professional sports championship.
The Diamondbacks wouldn't make the World Series until 2023, when they lost in five games to the Texas Rangers, which won its first-ever World Series title.
Ken Kendrick is the owner and managing general partner of the Diamondbacks. He became part-owner when the team was formed in 1998, and has been managing general partner since 2004.
Gonzalez now works in the Diamondbacks front office as senior adviser to the president and CEO.
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