Dodgers’ Organist Dieter Ruehle Steals Show During Epic 18-Inning Game

UPDATE: During an unprecedented 18-inning marathon in Game 3 of the World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays on October 27, 2023, fans were treated to an unexpected source of entertainment: Dieter Ruehle, the Dodgers’ talented organist. As the game stretched into historic territory, Ruehle’s humorous and timely musical selections kept the crowd engaged and lighthearted, even as tension rose.

The game, which became the longest in Major League Baseball history, had fans glued to their seats with anxiety. Ruehle responded to the mounting pressure by playing a series of iconic songs that resonated with the mood in the stadium. His playlist included Coldplay’s “Clocks” and Billy Joel’s “The Longest Time,” culminating in a playful rendition of Limahl’s “Never Ending Story” during the final inning. Social media lit up with fans dubbing him the “World Series Game 3 MVP,” with one user exclaiming, “Give the organist at Dodger Stadium a raise!”

Ruehle is no stranger to blending humor with music. In a previous game, he played “We Didn’t Start the Fire” while a car fire burned in the Dodgers’ parking lot, showcasing his ability to read the moment and create memorable experiences. The Dodgers, notable for hiring the first full-time organist in 1942, have a storied legacy of iconic musicians, and Ruehle is cementing his place among them.

Musical Background and Unique Style
Dieter Ruehle’s journey to becoming the voice of Dodger Stadium is rooted in his childhood admiration for legendary organists like Helen Dell and Nancy Bea Hefley. An ESPN profile revealed that Ruehle began emulating their performances at home, eventually taking music classes at Burbank High School and community colleges. However, he largely taught himself, cultivating a distinctive style that spans genres—from the upbeat rhythms of Hechizeros Band’s “El Sonidito” to the contemporary sounds of Billy Eilish.

Beyond his role with the Dodgers since 2016, Ruehle serves as the organist for the Los Angeles Kings. His connection to the Kings dates back to when he was just 12 years old, performing at a game after writing to the team. Notably, during a Kings game in December 2021, Ruehle played “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang” by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, earning a shoutout from the Kings’ broadcast.

Engaging the Fanbase
For fans who may find themselves puzzled by Ruehle’s eclectic song choices, the Twitter page Dieter Decoder was launched in 2019. This platform allows fans to identify and discuss the music Ruehle plays, fostering a community around his performances. It encourages attendees to tweet their guesses and insights, adding an interactive layer to the game experience.

As the World Series progresses, Ruehle’s role has become even more significant. His ability to uplift spirits during a grueling game is not just about music; it’s about creating a shared experience that resonates with fans both in the stadium and at home.

What’s Next?
As the Dodgers continue their World Series journey, fans eagerly anticipate more of Ruehle’s spirited performances. The next game promises to bring more excitement, with Ruehle at the helm, ready to provide the perfect soundtrack to each dramatic moment. With the stakes higher than ever, all eyes will be on Ruehle’s keys as he navigates the fine line between comedy and tension in these high-pressure games.

Stay tuned for updates as the World Series unfolds, and don’t miss a beat of Ruehle’s musical journey!