Richard Dotson – Baseball Player Biography, Career, Net Worth Information

Richard Dotson, a hard-throwing righty, really made his name in Major League Baseball with the Chicago White Sox during the 1980s. Born January 10, 1959, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dotson got drafted by the California Angels but found his stride with the White Sox. His best year? Definitely 1983—he went 22-7 and played a huge part in the White Sox grabbing the American League West division title.

Dotson pitched in the majors for parts of 12 seasons, from 1979 to 1990. He also spent time with the New York Yankees and wrapped things up with the Kansas City Royals. Fans remember Dotson for his durability and that gritty, competitive edge, even though arm issues eventually slowed him down. The Royals let Dotson go on June 21, 1990, which pretty much closed the book on his professional playing days.

He never made the Hall of Fame, but Dotson still left his mark with 111 career wins and a starring role on the 1983 “Winning Ugly” White Sox team. After retiring, he shifted into coaching, sticking with the game that shaped his life. Dotson’s story is really about a solid big-league starter who experienced the highs of near-Cy Young seasons and the lows of pitching through pain.

Early Life and Amateur Career

Dotson’s journey to the majors started back in Cincinnati, where he grew up and started honing his pitching in high school.

Family Background

Richard Elliott Dotson came into the world on January 10, 1959 in Cincinnati. That Midwest upbringing? It definitely played a role in his work ethic and determination later on.

In the ‘60s and ‘70s, Cincinnati was a baseball town. The Big Red Machine era gave local kids like Dotson plenty of heroes to look up to. His family encouraged his athletic ambitions early, and he had a knack for baseball—especially pitching.

High School Baseball

Dotson went to Anderson High School in Cincinnati and quickly stood out as a pitching prospect. He developed the tools in high school that would eventually land him in the majors.

As a righty, he overpowered most of his high school competition with his fastball and sharp control. College recruiters and pro scouts started noticing him pretty early on.

By senior year, Dotson was one of the best high school pitchers in the country. His performance at Anderson made him a top target for teams looking for young arms in the draft.

Draft Selection

Scouts didn’t miss Dotson’s talent—he got picked by the California Angels in the first round (7th overall) of the MLB draft. That high pick showed just how much the pros valued his pitching.

The Angels took a chance on him, hoping he’d develop into a top-of-the-rotation guy. They had high hopes for the Cincinnati kid.

Dotson skipped college and signed with the Angels right away, jumping straight into pro ball. That decision set him on the road that would lead to a long major league career, with his best years coming in Chicago.

Major League Debut and Early Years

Richard Dotson started his pro baseball career after the Angels drafted him in the first round in 1977. But his real break came after a trade sent him to the Chicago White Sox, where he had to put in the work and wait for his shot.

First MLB Appearances

Dotson made his big league debut on September 4, 1979, with the White Sox at just 20. He’d just been traded from the Angels in a multi-player deal.

His first year was short—just 5 games—but he flashed potential, even while adjusting to major league hitters. He put up a 3.39 ERA in that brief taste of the majors.

In 1980, his first full season, Dotson carved out a spot in the White Sox rotation. He started 31 games, logged 192 innings, and got a crash course in big-league pitching.

Development as a Pitcher

Early on, Dotson worked on his mechanics and tried to build up stamina. By 1981, his command started to sharpen.

By 1982, he’d become a true frontline starter for the Sox. His pitching mix looked like this:

• A fastball with some life
• A breaking ball that kept improving
• A developing changeup
• And a stubborn, competitive mindset

He started striking out more batters and became more effective overall. Dotson worked with the White Sox pitching coaches to refine his pitch selection and learn how to outthink hitters.

With his progress on the rise, he was ready for his breakout 1983 season—one that put him among the American League’s top pitchers.

Pivotal Seasons with the Chicago White Sox

Dotson’s run with the White Sox really defined his career. His big right arm and competitive fire made him a staple in the rotation during their best years in the early ‘80s.

Breakout Performances

Dotson proved himself as a reliable starter in 1981, but 1982 was his real coming-out party. He went 14-12 with a 3.54 ERA and 162 strikeouts, pitching a whopping 251 innings.

But 1983 was the year everything clicked. Dotson finished 22-7 with a 3.23 ERA, leading the American League in winning percentage and grabbing fourth in the Cy Young voting.

His pitching style? A lively fastball, a sharp slider, and a solid changeup. He got his walks down and kept the strikeouts coming.

Pitching coach Dave Duncan often praised Dotson’s work ethic and attention to detail for his improvement.

1983 Playoff Run

The White Sox won 99 games and took the AL West in 1983. Dotson and LaMarr Hoyt made a tough one-two punch in the rotation.

Dotson got the ball for Game 2 of the ALCS against the Orioles. He gave up just 2 runs over 7 innings, but the Sox lost 4-0 as the bats went cold against Mike Boddicker.

That playoff run was the payoff for the White Sox rebuild of the early ‘80s, with Dotson right in the thick of things. That “Winning Ugly” team had a good balance of pitching and timely hitting.

Dotson stayed cool under pressure, something manager Tony LaRussa always appreciated. Even though the Sox fell short, Dotson’s playoff performance showed he could handle the big moments.

Relationship with Teammates and Manager

Dotson built strong friendships with fellow pitchers like Britt Burns and Harold Baines. Those guys pushed each other to get better, especially during the ‘83 run.

Catcher Carlton Fisk worked closely with Dotson, helping him call games and attack hitters more effectively. Their partnership paid off, especially against division rivals.

Tony LaRussa never hesitated to hand Dotson the ball in a big spot. “When Richard took the mound, we knew we had a fighter out there,” LaRussa said.

In the clubhouse, Dotson led quietly. He mentored younger pitchers and set a solid example with his preparation and focus.

Notable Games and Achievements

On June 21, 1982, Dotson threw his first career shutout against the Twins, allowing just three hits and striking out nine. That game really put him on the map as a top starter.

1983 was his best year statistically, but his most impressive game might’ve been August 7, 1983. He went the distance in a 2-1 win over Bud Black and the Royals, helping the Sox hold onto the division lead.

Dotson made his only All-Star appearance in 1984, representing the Sox. Even as injuries started to creep in, he still had flashes of his old dominance.

He pitched over 200 innings for four straight seasons (1982-1985), a testament to his durability. That 1983 season is still one of the best in White Sox history.

Awards, Honors, and Notable Achievements

Richard Dotson got his share of recognition for his pitching, especially during his prime with the White Sox. He earned both team and individual honors.

All-Star Selection

Dotson reached a career high when he made the American League All-Star team in 1984. That came right after his standout 22-7 season with the Sox.

Getting picked for the All-Star Game was a big deal for Dotson. It confirmed he was one of the American League’s best starters in the mid-‘80s.

He built his All-Star case on consistency and the ability to eat innings. Teammates and fans respected how he could go deep into games and keep his team in it.

Cy Young Award Consideration

Dotson never took home a Cy Young, but his monster 1983 season put him in the running. With 22 wins, he was among the league leaders and even picked up Cy Young votes.

That ‘83 campaign was his peak—great win-loss record, solid ERA, and he helped lead the Sox to the AL West title.

He put up those numbers in a tough era for pitchers, which makes it even more impressive.

Trades and Career Moves

After his run with the White Sox, Dotson’s career took him to a few different teams. He saw the business side of baseball up close, moving between American League clubs.

Switch to the New York Yankees

After eight seasons with the White Sox, Dotson got traded to the Yankees on November 30, 1987. The Sox dealt him for Dan Pasqua, Mark Salas, and Steve Rosenberg.

Landing in New York was a big change. In 1988, his only full year with the Yankees, Dotson started 31 games and went 12-9 with a 4.68 ERA. He picked up wins, but consistency was tough to come by in the New York spotlight.

His time with the Yankees didn’t last long. The team released him in May 1989, ending his stint in pinstripes after just over a year.

Other Major League Teams

After leaving the Yankees, Dotson’s career took on a more nomadic feel. He rejoined the White Sox in 1989, returning to the team where he’d enjoyed his best years. The stint didn’t last long, but it clearly meant something to him as a veteran.

In 1990, Dotson played his final MLB season, splitting time with the Baltimore Orioles and Kansas City Royals. With the Orioles, he mostly worked out of the bullpen, showing he could adapt late in his career.

The Royals became his last stop in the majors. He pitched in just six games for Kansas City before calling it a career. Through all these transitions, Dotson showed the kind of resilience you see in seasoned players who bounce from team to team and adjust to whatever role is needed.

Pitching Style and Performance

Richard Dotson spent 12 seasons in the big leagues, and honestly, his time on the mound was all about adaptability and grit. His pitching approach mixed technical skill with a real competitive edge, making him a valuable starter for the White Sox and a few other clubs in the ‘80s.

Signature Pitches

Dotson leaned on a heavy fastball, usually in the low 90s. That was his bread and butter, and he liked to go right after hitters. He paired it with a sharp slider that gave righties plenty of trouble.

As he got older and his velocity dipped, his changeup started playing a bigger part. Dotson worked on his off-speed stuff, always looking for ways to stay effective.

He really knew how to work both sides of the plate. Dotson wasn’t shy about pitching inside, and he’d establish that inner half before painting the corners.

Statistical Highlights

The peak of Dotson’s career came in 1983, when he posted a 22-7 record and a 3.23 ERA for the division-winning White Sox. That year, he finished fourth in AL Cy Young voting.

His career numbers:

• 111 wins, 113 losses
• 4.23 ERA
• 55 complete games
• 11 shutouts
• 1,104 strikeouts

During his prime (1981-1985), Dotson showed real durability, averaging over 210 innings per season. You could count on him to take the ball every fifth day—something that’s not as common these days.

In 1990, his final year, Dotson struggled, especially at home, posting a 7.00 ERA in home games with the Royals.

Comparison to Contemporaries

Compared to his peers in the ‘80s, Dotson was more of a solid mid-rotation guy than a true ace. He didn’t have Roger Clemens’ dominance or John Candelaria’s steady consistency, but he fit right in with pitchers like Mike Boddicker or Walt Terrell—reliable arms who had their moments.

That 22-win season in ‘83 put him in the spotlight, but injuries kept him from staying at that level. His 4.23 ERA was pretty respectable for a time when hitters put up big numbers.

Dotson spent almost his entire career as a starter, with only 10 relief appearances in 305 games. That role really defined him.

He relied on command and smarts rather than overwhelming stuff, and that helped him stick around even when his velocity faded.

Challenges, Injuries, and Comebacks

Dotson’s career had its fair share of bumps in the road. He faced some serious physical setbacks that tested his determination and forced him to adapt.

Injury Setbacks

Things changed for Dotson in 1984 when his shoulder started giving him real trouble. He’d just come off a huge 22-win season, but suddenly he could only make nine starts and finished 2-5.

The real blow came in 1985. Dotson needed major shoulder surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff and remove bone chips. For pitchers back then, that kind of surgery was almost a career-ender. Medical rehab just wasn’t as advanced as it is now.

Recovery and Adaptation

Dotson started his comeback with a tough rehab program in 1986. He changed his pitching mechanics to take some pressure off his shoulder but still tried to be effective.

By 1987, he made it back, going 11-12 with a 4.17 ERA over 28 starts for the White Sox. He had to reinvent himself, relying more on movement and location instead of power.

He kept adapting during his later years with the Yankees and Royals, always managing some level of shoulder discomfort. He wasn’t as durable as before, but his persistence kept him in the majors until he retired at 31.

Final Season and Retirement in 1990

Dotson’s baseball journey wrapped up with the Kansas City Royals in 1990, closing the book on a 12-year run in the majors. His final season felt like both a challenge and a chance to find closure after so many ups and downs.

Circumstances of Retirement

He joined the Royals for what turned out to be his last MLB season. At 31, Dotson struggled to find consistency and took on a much smaller role than earlier in his career. His last game came on June 5, 1990, and the team released him soon after.

His 1990 stats pretty much tell the story:

• 2-3 record
• 5.60 ERA
• Not many appearances

Injuries and fading effectiveness finally caught up with him. Dotson had been a first-round pick (7th overall) by the Angels in 1977 and spent his later years fighting through arm problems.

Legacy Left in MLB

Most fans remember Dotson for his time with the White Sox, especially that amazing 1983 season (22-7 record, AL West champs). He never won a World Series, but he definitely left his mark.

Some career highlights:

• All-Star in 1984
• 111 career wins
• 3.62 lifetime ERA
• 1,104 strikeouts

Dotson built his reputation on control and a competitive edge. He was one of those durable starters that teams relied on in the ‘80s.

After retiring, he moved into coaching, staying close to the game and sharing what he’d learned with younger players.

Post-Playing Career and Coaching

After retiring in 1990, Dotson didn’t waste much time before jumping into coaching. He’s spent years helping develop new pitching talent, and his experience has made a real difference for a lot of young players.

Coaching Roles

Dotson kicked off his coaching career with the Chicago White Sox organization, where he’d had his best days as a player. He started as a pitching coach for the Bristol White Sox in 2002, working with rookies just starting their pro journeys.

He bounced around the White Sox minor league system, including a stint with the Birmingham Barons (Double-A). There, he worked alongside future MLB stars and helped shape the organization’s pitching prospects.

Dotson coached several pitchers who made it to the majors, including Mark Buehrle, who became one of the White Sox’s top starters in the 2000s.

Mentoring Future Pitchers

Dotson’s style as a mentor comes straight from his own ups and downs in the majors. After arm issues ended his career at 31, he focused on teaching proper mechanics and injury prevention.

He emphasizes:

• Consistent pitching mechanics
• Mental toughness
• Smart pitch sequencing and reading hitters
• Keeping arms healthy over a long season

Jose Contreras, who helped the White Sox win the 2005 World Series, picked up a lot from Dotson, especially about throwing sinkers and adjusting his approach.

Young pitchers seem to appreciate Dotson’s straightforward way of explaining things—he breaks down the complicated stuff so it actually makes sense.

Lasting Influence on Baseball

Dotson’s influence goes well beyond just his coaching stops. Plenty of former players credit him for shaping their careers and their approach to pitching. Robin Ventura, who managed the White Sox, has spoken highly of Dotson’s work with pitchers in the organization.

The pitching methods Dotson brought in have become part of how the White Sox develop arms. He always pushed for commanding the fastball and working efficiently—stuff that’s helped a lot of guys reach MLB.

People inside the game see Dotson as someone who’s bridged different eras. He pitched in the high-offense ‘80s and then coached through the analytics-heavy 2000s, always adapting his teaching.

Maybe his biggest legacy is the number of pitchers who say he helped them make career-saving changes or reach their potential.

Personal Life and Community Involvement

Off the field, Richard Dotson keeps things pretty private but has built a life focused on family and giving back to the community.

Family and Home Life

Dotson’s family story took a surprising turn in 2020. He learned that his biological father was Dick “Turk” Farrell, another former big league pitcher—a revelation that caught him off guard later in life.

A Cincinnati native and Anderson High grad, Dotson has always kept close ties to his hometown. Born January 10, 1959, he’s kept a pretty low profile about his personal life.

These days, he’s settled into family life and stayed involved in baseball through coaching.

Charitable Work

Dotson’s given back through various White Sox charity projects. As a member of the 1983 “Winning Ugly” team, he often shows up at alumni events supporting community causes.

He’s been active in youth baseball programs, sharing his pitching knowledge with kids just learning the game. Since 2002, he’s mentored young players as a minor league pitching coach in the White Sox system.

Dotson’s also helped out at baseball clinics for underprivileged youth, especially in Chicago and Charlotte, where he’s coached. These programs go beyond just baseball—they focus on education and character, too.

He still shows up at White Sox charity functions, signing autographs and helping raise money for different causes.

The Broader Legacy of Richard Dotson

Richard Dotson’s influence on baseball goes way beyond his stats or those unforgettable days on the mound. He stuck around with the Chicago White Sox long enough to leave a real mark on the team and its loyal fans.

Recognition by Teams and Fans

The White Sox haven’t retired Dotson’s number, but let’s be honest—his role in the 1983 “Winning Ugly” team that snagged the AL West title still matters a lot. That 22-win season in 1983? It’s still one of the best pitching years the Sox have seen in the modern era.

You’ll still spot Dotson at team reunions and big events at Guaranteed Rate Field (Comiskey Park, if you’re old-school). He keeps popping up at White Sox fan conventions, and people just don’t seem to get tired of seeing him.

Collectors still chase Dotson memorabilia, like his 1990 Score baseball cards. There’s a real appreciation for what he brought to the game.

Influence on Future Generations

Dotson went from high school standout to first-round draft pick, and his path still inspires young pitchers today. The California Angels drafted him in the first round, and his journey shows how you can develop and push through setbacks.

After major shoulder surgery in the mid-1980s, Dotson fought his way back. That comeback? It’s a go-to example for athletes staring down career-threatening injuries. A lot of pitchers have watched how he did it and tried to learn from it.

He didn’t just walk away after his playing days, either. Dotson coached in the White Sox organization, sharing his pitching know-how with up-and-coming arms. He really hammered home the importance of command and mental toughness—stuff that made him who he was on the mound.

Some current pitching coaches in pro baseball actually point to Dotson’s approach as a big influence on how they teach and think about the game.

Connections and Notable MLB Relationships

Richard Dotson’s baseball story isn’t just about numbers. It’s about the people he played with, the rivals he faced, and those moments that connected him to the bigger picture of the game—even beyond the U.S.

Teammates and Rivals

Dotson built some tight relationships with his White Sox teammates. He and catcher Carlton Fisk, for example, made a great pair—Fisk’s game-calling really meshed with Dotson’s pitching style. That duo? Definitely one of the more effective batteries in the American League in the early ‘80s.

He went toe-to-toe with Roger Clemens more than a few times. Whenever the Sox played the Red Sox, those pitcher duels could decide who came out on top in the division. The stakes felt high.

Dotson also shared the rotation with LaMarr Hoyt during that 1983 run. Their friendly rivalry really pushed both guys to step up their game.

Memorable Matchups

Some of Dotson’s best games came against big hitters like Pedro Guerrero from the Dodgers. Guerrero had a reputation as a slugger, but Dotson usually found ways to keep him in check with smart fastballs and off-speed stuff.

He also had some great battles with Mike Boddicker of the Orioles. Both guys leaned on control instead of just blowing hitters away, so those games were always interesting to watch.

Facing Toronto’s Alfredo Griffin stands out, too. Griffin was a tough contact hitter, but Dotson usually handled him by mixing up his pitches and staying unpredictable.

International Baseball Experiences

After his MLB career, Dotson took a shot at playing in Japan, though honestly, he didn’t stay long compared to his years in the Majors. Still, that short stint gave him a fresh perspective on how people approach the game in different places.

During spring training with the White Sox, Dotson jumped into exhibition games down in Mexico. By doing that, he helped baseball reach fans outside the U.S. He also got to pitch against hitters with styles he rarely saw in MLB back then, which must’ve been a bit of a challenge.

Later on, when Dotson moved into coaching with the White Sox, he drew on those international experiences. He picked up bits and pieces from the pitching philosophies he saw abroad, and that mix really helped him develop young talent—guys like reliever Jesse Orosco, who actually crossed paths with Dotson for a bit during their playing days.