Hefley has played "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" more than 4,000 times during her 25-year career with the Dodgers. Surprisingly, the San Pedro native doesn't mind the repetitive nature of banging out the seventh-inning-stretch classic.
Wesley MannDodgers organist Nancy Bea Hefley will retire after this year’s season. Hefley’s retirement was announced Friday night at Dodger Stadium when the NL West Champions hosted the San Diego Padres.
Thank you, Nancy Bea! Longtime Dodger organist Nancy Bea Hefley announced she is retiring after this season. pic.twitter.com/mPR0RDXA3N
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 3, 2015
The musician began playing for the team in 1988 where she once performed 35 songs per game. She’s played “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” more than 4,000 times during her 28-year career with the team.
“I have had a wonderful time playing for the Dodgers and their fans,” Hefley said in a statement, according to the Los Angeles Times. “My husband and I felt that this was the right time to settle down in our home in Silver Springs and eliminate all the travel. The Dodgers have told me I can come back and make guest appearances and I greatly appreciate this gesture. I hope to get back to Dodger Stadium on occasion.”
Hefley was honored on the field of Dodger Stadium, where 1988 World Champion Orel Hershiser presented her with flowers and a jersey.
Thank you, Nancy Bea! pic.twitter.com/YRJqboim2X
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 3, 2015
