Famous New York Yankees Players

Babe Ruth, “The Sultan of Swat” was a reason baseball became so popular. He changed the game from being about speed, with low scores, to a high scoring power game. He is known as the “most celebrated player in American baseball history.” In fact, in a 1999 ESPN poll, he was the third greatest US player, behind Michael Jordan and Muhammed Ali. In 1927, he reached his 60th home run, a record held until 1961, when Roger Maris hit 61. His career hits of 714 home runs held for 39 years, until Hank Aaron. He was inducted in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936, being one of the first five players.

Lou Gehrig, “Iron Horse,” became a Yankee in 1925. He played the most games in a row, at 2130, which ended because of his retirement. His career average is 147 RBIs a season, then George Foster reached it in 1977. His 184 RBIs in 1931 is the highest in a single season in American League history. On June 3, 1932, he was the first American League player to hit 4 home runs in one game. His disease was affecting his game in 1938. July 4, 1939 was a teary day of recognition, and he was inducted in the Hall of Fame in December. On June 2, 1941, he died, leaving a hole in baseball history.

Joe DiMaggio helped the team win the pennant in 1936 after 4 long years. In 1939, he received his first of three MVPs. He received 46 home runs in 1937, with a National League record in July. He was a great defensive player, being nearly perfect with his throwing. In 1942, he hit .357 with 125 RBIs, winning his second MVP. In 1951, a heel injury forced him to retire. He was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1955.