The Los Angeles Dodgers have been home to many baseball success stories, from surprise world champions to celebrated all-time legends.

But professional athletes often take unexpected routes to the heights of their careers and always leave behind more than statistics when they end their careers. For many, the memories that endure come from the teammates they inspired, the communities they represented and the unique talents that made them unforgettable, even if injuries prevent their careers from reaching the heights many hoped for.

That was the case for Randy Kohn, a former promising Dodgers catching prospect whose baseball journey included starring for the University of Georgia before a career-ending injury forced him to change his plans. Kohn died at age 78 last month, according to a local obituary, giving fans of the team another chance to remember a unique talent.

Los Angeles Dodgers’ Former Catcher Remembered By Tony Lasorda After Brief Career

Kohn's baseball career was defined by extraordinary defensive ability behind the plate.

“He possessed a legendary arm and famously threw out base-stealers at second base from his knees,” the obituary noted of Kohn’s college reputation. “A sportswriter at the time remarked, ‘Kohn ceases to be run-of-the-mill. If second base is the target, Bulldog pitchers don’t duck; they step aside. Kohn’s bullets zoom about waist high and usually arrive well ahead of the runner.’”

Kohn was first drafted by the New York Mets in the second round of the 1965 draft before returning to school, then the Dodgers selected him in the fourth round in 1967.

“Randy made an immediate impression in professional baseball, delivering a two-run single with the bases loaded in his first professional at-bat,” the obituary added. “To Randy, pressure was a privilege. His talent, toughness, and fearless approach to the game was even highlighted by Tommy Lasorda in his book, ‘The Artful Dodger.’”

Former Los Angeles Dodgers Backstop, University of Georgia Star, Dies After Very Short Career

Although Kohn's professional career showed promise and his character left an impression on the Hall of Fame manager, it ultimately came to an abrupt end because of injury before he could establish himself in the major leagues.

Rather than allowing that setback to define him, though, Kohn returned to the University of Georgia, completed his education and built a successful life away from baseball. He earned a bachelor's degree in business management after returning to Athens. He is survived by several grandchildren.