"It takes an astute observer of baseball to appreciate the role of a backup catcher. Fortunately, Rick Dempsey plays before baseball's most knowledgeable fans, those of New York, and they know what this man can do.
Owner of a rifle arm, Rick came to the Yankees after the 1972 season in exchange for Danny Walton. He spent the 1973 season as the regular catcher at Syracuse and became the organization's number two receiver last year, spelling Thurman Munson during Thurm's injury-ridden season.
Like any backup player, Rick welcomes the opportunity to play and would like to see more playing time. But his value is fully appreciated and he plays his role expertly, contributing to Yankee success in any way he can."
-The New York Yankees Official 1975 Yearbook
"With only a limited opportunity to play last season, Rick displayed a strong and accurate throwing arm as a backup catcher to Thurman Munson. Much of his service came when Munson was sidelined in May. Rick caught nine straight games from May 12-22. He hit his first major league home run on May 12, connecting off Kevin Kobel.
Rick was first signed by Minnesota in 1967 and later appeared in 41 games for the Twins before his trade to New York. An all-star selection at Charlotte in both 1970 and 1971, he was the MVP in the New York-Penn League in 1968.
Rick is a distant relative of former heavyweight champ Jack Dempsey. His father was a Broadway actor who once played a character named 'Rikard' on the stage, hence the name. His wife is a Bronx girl."
-1975 New York Yankees Press/TV/Radio Guide
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