"The job of being a backup catcher to Thurman Munson doesn't call for a lot of game action, but after a minor league apprenticeship, Rick Dempsey will tell you it's a role he's happy to fill.
When given the opportunity to play, Rick has demonstrated a fine throwing arm and a good ability to call a game. His bat has never been questioned - he's been outstanding in two springs with the Yankees, and has the capability to hit the ball sharply, even when he hasn't played in many days.
Rick was first signed by the Twins in 1967, and was obtained by the Yankees in a trade for Danny Walton in 1972."
-The New York Yankees Official 1974 Yearbook
"Rick made quite an impression on the Yankees in spring training a year ago, both at bat and behind the plate, and stayed with the club until the final cut. He then became the regular catcher at Syracuse and joined the Yankees late in the season. He's hoping to land a spot on the big league roster this time around.
Rick was first signed by the Twins in 1967 and played 41 games for Minnesota over three seasons. He won the MVP award in the New York-Penn League in 1968 and was an all-star selection in both 1970 and '71 at Charlotte.
A distant relative of former heavyweight champ Jack Dempsey, the 'Rikard' middle name comes from a character his father, a Broadway actor, played on the stage."
-1974 New York Yankees Press/TV/Radio Guide
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