Thursday, September 11, 2014

1976 Profile: Otto Velez

"Otto Velez won the James P. Dawson Award as the top rookie in the Yankees' 1973 spring training camp. But he's still waiting for his chance to make it big in the majors.
The young Puerto Rican, an International League All-Star in 1973 and 1974, missed a good part of last season at Syracuse, but still led the league in walks. That's a sign of patience, something Otto has had to rely on during his career. Hopefully, for the man who can play first, third or the outfield, a chance may be on the way."

-The New York Yankees Official 1976 Yearbook

"Otto is a hard line-drive hitter who gets on base a lot.
Although a broken wrist sidelined him for a good part of the season last year and limited his play to 81 games, he drew 87 walks to lead the International League.
Winner of the 1973 James P. Dawson Award as the outstanding rookie in spring training, Otto was an All-Star in both 1973 and 1974 at Syracuse, walking 130 times in 1973. He was second in the I.L. in both homers and RBIs in 1973.
Otto reached base ten consecutive times in June and July of 1974. He hit two home runs in one game against Cleveland on September 23, 1973. In his major league debut a few days earlier, he went 3-for-4 against Mickey Lolich.
Otto can play first, third or the outfield."

-1976 New York Yankees Press/TV/Radio Guide

No comments:

Post a Comment