Well, that A’s team was thought to be virtually invincible - and Gibson’s homer at that moment changed the whole character of the Series. It’s still my second-worst baseball moment as a fan - the worst being Scott Spezio’s home run for the Angels against the Giants in game 6 of the 2002 series that did the same (damned) thing. :)
You are very correct about the A’s being thought to be invincible.
The early story line in the game was Jose Canseco, who for all of his many career home runs, had never hit a grand slam. His GS earlier was how the A’s got their 4 runs. I seemed to reinforce everyone’s belief that the Dodgers had no chance in the Series.
Then there was Gibson. Not in the starting lineup, in fact in the locker room watching the game on TV. The Dodgers were without their heart and soul player.
But, when the game got close, Gibson came out and told Lasorda he thought he could pinch hit if needed.
Then there was Eckersly who had been absolutely lights out all season.
But, Lasorda rolled the dice, and the rest is history!!
Now it makes sense. Thanks.