Tony La Russa has encouraged former Oakland Athletics pitcher Dave Stewart to showcase his hidden talent for singing. Stewart, well-known for his formidable career as a right-handed reliever and three-time World Series champion, will perform publicly for the first time on February 3, 2024, during a fundraiser at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California.
Their friendship dates back to La Russa’s inaugural game as manager of the Athletics in 1986, when he entrusted Stewart with a starting role against Roger Clemens. The two have developed a bond that has lasted nearly four decades, with Stewart referring to La Russa as “like a brother from another mother.” While Stewart’s prowess on the mound is well-documented, it is his vocal talent that has remained largely undisclosed until now.
La Russa recalls many occasions where he heard Stewart singing in the background during social events, particularly enjoying Motown classics. “When he gets excited, he sounds like the Bee Gees,” La Russa noted. Stewart, now 68, will perform two songs by Chris Stapleton and one by Bill Withers at the upcoming event, which aims to support La Russa’s nonprofit for animal welfare.
The idea for Stewart’s performance arose during a casual round of golf last spring. La Russa, who recently completed treatment for cancer and is now serving as a senior advisor for the Chicago White Sox, made a playful bet with Stewart. The terms dictated that if Stewart lost, he would have to sing at the fundraiser. Despite La Russa’s offer to waive the requirement, Stewart insisted on honoring the bet.
La Russa humorously reflected on the possible consequences if roles had been reversed, stating he would have had to kiss Stewart at home plate before a game—a fate he was keen to avoid.
The fundraiser is expected to attract notable attendees, including baseball veterans such as Dusty Baker, Jose Canseco, and Dennis Eckersley. The evening will also feature performances from Tony Lindsay of Santana and Franc D’Ambrosio, known for his role in “Phantom of the Opera,” along with a panel discussion focused on significant moments in Stewart’s career.
This year’s event carries an added sentimental value as La Russa reflects on his deep ties to the Athletics. Having debuted at age 18 with the Kansas City Athletics, his connection to the franchise extends beyond its relocation to Oakland in 1968. La Russa managed the team during a golden era, leading them to three consecutive American League pennants in the late 1980s.
The current situation surrounding the Athletics, who are set to move to Las Vegas, has left La Russa feeling disappointed. “There’s a lot of history in Oakland,” he said, lamenting the loss of a loyal fan base. His sentiments echo a broader concern among former players and fans regarding the potential impact of the move on the community.
As the baseball season approaches and pitchers and catchers prepare to report for spring training, La Russa plans to return to the game he has loved for decades. He expressed gratitude for remaining connected to baseball, stating, “It’s the only thing I know how to do.”
With this upcoming performance, Dave Stewart is not only stepping into the spotlight as a singer but also celebrating a cherished friendship that has weathered the trials of time and the evolution of baseball.
