One season after losing the World Series to the Baltimore Orioles, the Dodgers declined to a record of 73–89, and finished ahead of only the Houston Astros and the New York Mets in the National League race, 28+1⁄2 games behind the NL and World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals.
However, a couple of questionable trades (Tommy Davis for Ron Hunt, and Maury Wills for Bob Bailey and Gene Michael) further weakened an offense that was already considered below average.
Ron Fairly, Willie Davis, and Bob Bailey all slumped off from their 1966 production; but one of the few bright spots was rookie Al Ferrara's .277 average and 16 home runs in just over half the season.
Ultimately, the Dodgers scored fewer runs than any National League team except the last place Mets.
The bullpen was led by Ron Perranoski, Jim Brewer, and Phil Regan, who combined for 23 saves and all had an ERA under 3.