Because of the prominence of the Dodgers, the history of their nickname is probably not so much of a mystery to many fans. Still, those less familiar or unfamiliar with the team’s existence in Brooklyn may not realize that Dodgers is short for Trolley Dodgers, of which there were many in the trolley-laced New York borough during the early 20th century. Less well known is that when the team began play in the National League in 1890 they were called the Bridegrooms because seven of the players had married only two years before. This was an age of relative informality in which team identities were subject to change. Brookyn’s team also answered to Wonders, Fillies, and Superbas at various times, and when Trolley Dodgers (later shortened to Dodgers) achieved its permanent status is unclear.
REED SAXON/AP
