Scully on Gibson's pinch-hit HR, 25 years ago: 'Never, ever did I ever think he'd hit a home run'

Twenty-five years ago Tuesday night, on Oct. 15, 1988, Kirk Gibson hit one of the most dramatic home runs in World Series history:

USA Today's Bob Nightengale spoke with legendary Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully about that night, and about that home run. All Scully prayed for was that Gibson, so hobbled by injury that he could barely walk, wouldn't strike out.

"Please, God, don't let him strikeout .He's had such a great year. He's led the team and worked so hard. And now that he's on the national stage, just don't let him strike out.'

"Never, ever did I think he'd ever hit a home run." 

Gibson's home run gave the Dodgers a win in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series. They won the title in five games, and haven't won since. 

Gibson cherishes what he calls "my defining moment." While he's seen video of the home run countless times, it's the radio calls of his shot that are the most special to him.

"I have it on a little cassette tape, and keep it in areas of the house. Once in a while, I'll walk by, and just listen to it."

Nightengale spoke with Scully, Gibson, Dennis Eckersley (who was on the mound that fateful night), and even the Dodgers' bat boy about the home run. Give the full piece a read. 

Here's more on the home run, from SB Nation's Rob Neyer: Kirk Gibson knew Eckersley was going to throw a 3-2 slider.