Saturday, February 28, 2015

1981 New York Yankees Postseason Roster

Manager - Bob Lemon  21

No. Coaches
48  Joe Altobelli
  8  Yogi Berra
33  Mike Ferraro
42  Clyde King
40  Charley Lau
41  Jeff Torborg
53  Jerry Walker

No. Pitchers
39  Ron Davis (R-R)
43  George Frazier (R-R)
54  Rich Gossage (R-R)
49  Ron Guidry (L-L)
25  Tommy John (R-L)
34  Dave LaRoche (L-L)
45  Rudy May (L-L)
36  Rick Reuschel (R-R)
19  Dave Righetti (L-L)

No. Catchers
10  Rick Cerone (R-R)
23  Barry Foote (R-R)

No. Infielders
20  Bucky Dent (R-R)  *
18  Larry Milbourne (S-R)
  9  Graig Nettles (L-R)
30  Willie Randolph (R-R)
12  Dave Revering (L-R)
55  Andre Robertson (R-R)
27  Aurelio Rodriguez (R-R)  
28  Bob Watson (R-R)

No. Outfielders
13  Bobby Brown (S-R)
17  Oscar Gamble (L-R)
44  Reggie Jackson (L-L)  
22  Jerry Mumphrey (S-R)
  2  Bobby Murcer (L-R)
14  Lou Piniella (R-R)
31  Dave Winfield (R-R)

Trainers - Gene Monahan, Barry Weinberg

Bullpen Catcher - Dom Scala  51

Batting Practice Pitchers - Doug Melvin  50, Mickey Scott  59

* not on active roster


SCOREBOOK & SOUVENIR PROGRAM PORTRAIT PHOTOS
Bobby Brown (OF) 13
Rick Cerone (C) 10
Ron Davis (P) 39
Bucky Dent (SS) 20
Barry Foote (C) 23
George Frazier (P) 43
Oscar Gamble (DH-OF) 17
Rich Gossage (P) 54
Ron Guidry (P) 49
Reggie Jackson (RF) 44
Tommy John (P) 25
Dave LaRoche (P) 34
Bob Lemon (MGR) 21
Rudy May (P) 45
Larry Milbourne (IF) 18
Jerry Mumphrey (CF) 22
Bobby Murcer (OF) 2
Graig Nettles (3B) 9
Lou Piniella (DH-OF) 14
Willie Randolph (2B) 30
Rick Reuschel (P) 48
Dave Revering (1B) 12
Dave Righetti (P) 19
Andre Robertson (SS) 55
Bob Watson (1B) 28
Dennis Werth (C) 24
Dave Winfield (LF) 31

1981 New York Yankees September Roster

Manager - Bob Lemon  21

No. Coaches
48  Joe Altobelli
  8  Yogi Berra
33  Mike Ferraro
42  Clyde King
40  Charley Lau
41  Jeff Torborg
53  Jerry Walker

No. Pitchers
39  Ron Davis (R-R)
43  George Frazier (R-R)
54  Rich Gossage (R-R)
49  Ron Guidry (L-L)
25  Tommy John (R-L)
34  Dave LaRoche (L-L)
45  Rudy May (L-L)
58  Andy McGaffigan (R-R)
46  Gene Nelson (R-R)
36  Rick Reuschel (R-R)
19  Dave Righetti (L-L)

No. Catchers
10  Rick Cerone (R-R)
23  Barry Foote (R-R)
35  Brad Gulden (L-R)
47  Bruce Robinson (L-R)  *
24  Dennis Werth (R-R)

No. Infielders
57  Tucker Ashford (R-R)
66  Steve Balboni (R-R)
20  Bucky Dent (R-R)  *
18  Larry Milbourne (S-R)
  9  Graig Nettles (L-R)
30  Willie Randolph (R-R)
12  Dave Revering (L-R)
55  Andre Robertson (R-R)
27  Aurelio Rodriguez (R-R)  
21  Eric Soderholm (R-R)  *
28  Bob Watson (R-R)

No. Outfielders
13  Bobby Brown (S-R)
17  Oscar Gamble (L-R)
44  Reggie Jackson (L-L)  
22  Jerry Mumphrey (S-R)
  2  Bobby Murcer (L-R)
56  Mike Patterson (L-R)
14  Lou Piniella (R-R)
31  Dave Winfield (R-R)

Trainers - Gene Monahan, Barry Weinberg

Bullpen Catcher - Dom Scala  51

Batting Practice Pitchers - Doug Melvin  50, Mickey Scott  59

* not on active roster


1981 NEW YORK YANKEES TEAM PHOTO
Joe Altobelli (coach)
Yogi Berra (coach)
Steven Brock (batboy)
Bobby Brown
Rick Cerone
Stephen D'Angelo (batboy)
Ron Davis
Mike Ferraro (coach)
Barry Foote
George Frazier
Oscar Gamble
Rich Gossage
Ron Guidry
Tommy John
Bill Kane (traveling secretary)
Clyde King (coach)
Dave LaRoche
Bob Lemon (manager)
Rudy May
Gene Monahan (trainer)
Jerry Mumphrey
Graig Nettles
Lou Piniella
Rick Reuschel
Dave Revering
Dave Righetti
Andre Robertson
Aurelio Rodriguez
Dom Scala (bullpen catcher)
Mickey Scott (batting practice pitcher)
Jeff Torborg (coach)
Anthony Toulon (batboy)
Jerry Walker (coach)
Bob Watson
Barry Weinberg (trainer)
Dennis Werth
Dave Winfield

absent when photo taken: Bucky Dent, Reggie Jackson, Charley Lau (coach), Larry Milbourne, Bobby Murcer, Willie Randolph, Pete Sheehy (equipment manager) 

1981 New York Yankees August 10 Roster

Manager - Gene Michael 11

No. Coaches
  8  Yogi Berra
33  Mike Ferraro
42  Clyde King
40  Charley Lau
41  Jeff Torborg
53  Jerry Walker

No. Pitchers
39  Ron Davis (R-R)
43  George Frazier (R-R)
54  Rich Gossage (R-R)
49  Ron Guidry (L-L)
25  Tommy John (R-L)
34  Dave LaRoche (L-L)
45  Rudy May (L-L)
48  Rick Reuschel (R-R)
19  Dave Righetti (L-L)
58  Dave Wehrmeister (R-R)

No. Catchers
10  Rick Cerone (R-R)
23  Barry Foote (R-R)
47  Bruce Robinson (L-R)  *

No. Infielders
20  Bucky Dent (R-R)
18  Larry Milbourne (S-R)
  9  Graig Nettles (L-R)
30  Willie Randolph (R-R)
12  Dave Revering (L-R)
27  Aurelio Rodriguez (R-R)  
21  Eric Soderholm (R-R)  *
28  Bob Watson (R-R)

No. Outfielders
17  Oscar Gamble (L-R)
44  Reggie Jackson (L-L)  
22  Jerry Mumphrey (S-R)
  2  Bobby Murcer (L-R)
14  Lou Piniella (R-R)
31  Dave Winfield (R-R)

Trainers - Gene Monahan, Barry Weinberg

Bullpen Catcher - Dom Scala  51

Batting Practice Pitchers - Doug Melvin  50, Mickey Scott  59

* not on active roster

1981 New York Yankees June 1 Roster

Manager - Gene Michael 11

No. Coaches
48  Joe Altobelli
  8  Yogi Berra
33  Mike Ferraro
50  Clyde King
40  Charley Lau
41  Jeff Torborg
53  Jerry Walker

No. Pitchers
43  Doug Bird (R-R)
35  Bill Castro (R-R)
39  Ron Davis (R-R)
54  Rich Gossage (R-R)
49  Ron Guidry (L-L)
25  Tommy John (R-L)  *
34  Dave LaRoche (L-L)
45  Rudy May (L-L)
46  Gene Nelson (R-R)
19  Dave Righetti (L-L)

No. Catchers
10  Rick Cerone (R-R)
23  Barry Foote (R-R)
47  Bruce Robinson (L-R)  *

No. Infielders
20  Bucky Dent (R-R)
18  Larry Milbourne (S-R)
  9  Graig Nettles (L-R)
30  Willie Randolph (R-R)
12  Dave Revering (L-R)
27  Aurelio Rodriguez (R-R)  
21  Eric Soderholm (R-R)  *
28  Bob Watson (R-R)

No. Outfielders
13  Bobby Brown (S-R)
17  Oscar Gamble (L-R)
44  Reggie Jackson (L-L)  
22  Jerry Mumphrey (S-R)
  2  Bobby Murcer (L-R)
14  Lou Piniella (R-R)
31  Dave Winfield (R-R)

Trainers - Gene Monahan, Barry Weinberg

Bullpen Catcher - Dom Scala  51

Batting Practice Pitchers - Doug Melvin  52, Mickey Scott  59

* not on active roster

1981 New York Yankees Program and Scorecard Notes

WELCOME
"The New York Yankees take great pride in welcoming you to Yankee Stadium. This magnificent park, reconstructed between October 1973 and April 1976, boasts the greatest features in comfort and enjoyment for fans while retaining the historic character which makes it the most famous sports arena in America.
Yankee Stadium first opened in 1923, and the Yankees went on to win the first of 22 World Championships that year. Scores of great ballplayers have worn the Yankee uniform over the years, with the legendary Babe Ruth-Lou Gehrig-Joe DiMaggio-Mickey Mantle line forming a tradition of greatness. Since the reopening of Yankee Stadium, the Yankees have strengthened that tradition, winning two World Championships, three American League pennants and four AL East Division titles during those five seasons.
The 1981 Yankees proudly wear the same uniforms and play in the same ballpark- with the added benefit of playing in a stadium built for your comfort.
We welcome you today to the 79th season of Yankee baseball ... be a part of it ... there is none better."

-New York Yankees 1981 Scorebook & Official Magazine


SCOREBOOK & SOUVENIR PROGRAM PORTRAIT PHOTOS
Doug Bird (P) 43
Bill Castro (P) 35
Rick Cerone (C) 10
Greg Cochran (P) 57
Ron Davis (P) 39
Bucky Dent (SS) 20
Oscar Gamble (DH-OF) 17
Rich Gossage (P) 54
Ron Guidry (P) 49
Reggie Jackson (RF) 44
Tommy John (P) 25
Ruppert Jones (CF) 22
Joe Lefebvre (OF) 46
Tim Lollar (P) 53
Rudy May (P) 45
Andy McGaffigan (P) 58
Larry Milbourne (IF) 18
Bobby Murcer (OF) 2
Graig Nettles (3B) 9
Johnny Oates (C) 26
Lou Piniella (DH-OF) 14
Willie Randolph (2B) 30
Bruce Robinson (C) 47
Aurelio Rodriguez (3B) 27
Eric Soderholm (3B) 21
Jim Spencer (1B) 12
Tom Underwood (P) 38
Bob Watson (1B) 28
Dennis Werth (C) 24
Dave Winfield (LF) 31


TICKET INFORMATION
"Tickets to Yankee home games are on sale throughout the season at the Yankee Stadium Advance Ticket Windows, from 9-5 Monday through Saturday, from 10-5 on Sunday, and through the conclusion of all night games.
Tickets are also available at the more than 100 Ticketron locations throughout the metropolitan area, including the Yankee-Ticketron office at Grand Central Station (on the mezzanine level), weekdays from 9-5. You may also purchase tickets at the North Jersey Auto Club in Oradell, Patterson and Jersey City; at Connecticut Travel in Meriden and New Britain; and at the All Sports Ticket Center at Madison Square Garden.
In the Albany and upstate New York area, tickets are available from the Fleahman Upstate Yankee Ticket Office."

-New York Yankees 1981 Scorebook & Official Magazine

ALTERNATE ROUTES TO YANKEE STADIUM
"From New Jersey
-George Washington Bridge exit Harlem River Drive to 155th St. exit, Macombs Dam Bridge to Stadium.
-George Washington Bridge to Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95) to Jerome Ave. South to Stadium.
From the East:
-I-95 westbound to Jerome Ave. South to Stadium.
From Long Island and Connecticut:
-I-95 westbound to Bruckner Expressway (I-278) southbound to Major Deegan (I-87) northbound to 138th St. or 149th St. exits.
From the Triborough Bridge:
-Major Deegan (I-87) to 138th St. or 149th St. exits.
From Manhattan:
-FDR Drive. Willis Ave. Bridge to Major Deegan (I-87) northbound to 138th St. or 149th. St. exits.
-Madison Ave. Bridge northbound to 149th St. Bridge.
-FDR Drive to Harlem River Drive to 155th St. exit, Macombs Dam Bridge to Stadium.
From Western Westchester:
-New York State Thruway (I-87) south to 233 St. exit, follow Jerome Ave. to Grand Concourse southbound to Stadium.
From Westchester:
-Bronx River Parkway or Hutchinson River Parkway southbound to Bruckner Expressway (I-278) southbound to Major Deegan (I-87) northbound to 138th St. or 149th St. exits.
-Bronx River or Hutchinson River Parkways southbound to Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95) westbound to Jerome Ave. south to Stadium.
Important: Please follow the directions of the Traffic Policemen as their communications system allows them to direct you to and from the closest available parking lots by the quickest routes in the Yankee Stadium environs."

-New York Yankees 1981 Scorebook & Official Magazine

MASS TRANSIT INFORMATION
"From New Jersey:
Independent bus companies provide daily scheduled service from New Jersey to the George Washington Bridge Station and New York Port Authority Terminal. Subway connections to the Stadium are available from both locations.
From Connecticut:
Rail service between New Haven and Manhattan with intermediate stops is provided by Conrail and Amtrak. Subway connections to the Stadium can be made from these lines. Trailways Bus Company provides daily scheduled bus service between New Haven and Manhattan, again to convenient subway connections.
From Long Island:
Long Island Railroad services all of Long Island, with final stops at Penn Station and Flatbush Avenue. Subway connections to the Stadium are available at both stops. Bus service is also available with convenient connections to the subway."

-New York Yankees 1981 Scorebook & Official Magazine


NEW ARRIVAL
"Congratulations to Ron and Millie Davis, proud parents of their first child, Ellison Mark, born on March 30 at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, New Jersey."

-New York Yankees 1981 Scorebook & Official Magazine

DANDY
"Dandy, the Yankees' mascot, was introduced during the 1979 season and is unique among the characters in major league baseball. Of course, he delights children and entertains with his hat spinning, mustache curling and soft-shoe shuffling antics, but he's still a little different than the others ... during the game he remains in the stands and off the field.
The Yankees introduced Dandy to help add to the enjoyment of families and children at the ball game. But they didn't want him to distract the players or umpires or take away from the great game of baseball.
So unlike many other characters introduced before him, you won't find Dandy on the field, but rather handing out goodies to the children, posing for pictures and leading the cheers for the Yankees. The next time you see him in your section, be sure to greet Dandy and find out what surprises he has in store."

-New York Yankees 1981 Scorebook & Official Magazine


GROUND RULES
"Foul poles are outside the playing field. Any batted ball hitting a foul pole above the fence line is a home run. Bat racks are within the dugouts.
Any thrown ball hitting a dugout railing or foundation and rebounding on the field is in play. A ball going into a dugout or hitting other parts of a dugout- out of play."

-New York Yankees 1981 Scorebook & Official Program

AMERICAN LEAGUE UMPIRES
  1  Haller
  2  Bremigan
  3  Evans
  4  Springstead
  5  Goetz
  6  Neudecker
  7  Phillips
  8  McKean
  9  Kunkel
10  McCoy
11  Denkinger
12  Cooney
13  Cousins
14  Palermo
15  Brinkman
16  DiMuro
17  Hirschbeck
18  Kosc
19  Garcia
20  Ford
21  Kaiser
22  Barnett
23  Reed
24  Clark
25  Johnson
26  Voltaggio
27  Roe
28  Maloney
29  Shulock
30  Parks
31  Reilly
32  Humphrey
33  Merrill
34  Morrison
35  Hendry
36  McClelland


WHERE THE YANKEES STAY ON THE ROAD
Baltimore- Cross Keys Inn
Boston- Sheraton Boston
California (Anaheim)- Anaheim Hyatt House
Chicago- Continental Plaza
Cleveland- Stouffer's
Detroit- Pontchartrain
Kansas City- Crown Center
Milwaukee- Pfister
Minnesota (Minneapolis-St. Paul)- Marriott
Oakland- Edgewater Hyatt House
Seattle- Park Hilton
Texas (Arlington)- Roadway Inn
Toronto- Hotel Toronto

1981 NEW YORK YANKEES RADIO NETWORK
NEW YORK
New York (WABC) (flagship station)
Albany (WROW)
Batavia (WBTA)
Binghamton (WKOP)
Brockport (WJBT)
Buffalo (WACJ)
Canandaigua (WFLC)
Corning (WCLI)
Cortland (WKRT)
Dunkirk (WDOE)
Glens Falls (WBZA)
Gloversville (WENT)
Hudson (WHUC)
Jamestown (WKSN)
Massena (WMSA)
Olean (WBJZ)
Schenectady (WWWD)
Seneca Falls (WSFW)
Syracuse (WSYR)
Utica (WIBX)
Walton (WDLA)
Watertown (WTNY)
Waverly (WAVR)
CONNECTICUT
Manchester (WINF)
Meriden (WMMW)
Torrington (WSNG)
Waterbury (WATR)
FLORIDA
Fort Meyers (WAYK)
Miami (WIOD)
Tampa (WPLP)
LOUISIANA
Lafayette (KPEL)
New Orleans (WWIW)
MASSACHUSETTS
Greenfield (WPOE)
Pittsfield (WBEC)
Springfield (WIXY)
NORTH CAROLINA
Raleigh (WPTF)
PENNSYLVANIA
North East (WHYP)
Sayre (WATS)
Tamaqua (WZTA)
Wilkes-Barre (WBAX)
Williamsport (WWPA)
TEXAS
San Antonio (WOAI)
VERMONT
Burlington (WDOT)
Montpelier (WSKI)
Rutland (WBWB)
ALASKA
Anchorage (KSKA)
Barrow (KBRW)
Kodiak (KVOK)
Kotzebue (KOTZ)
McGrath (KSKO)
Wrangell (KSTK)

1981 NEW YORK YANKEES TELEVISION NETWORK
New York, NY (WPIX) (originating station)
Albany, NY (WTEN)
Hartford, CT (WFSB)
Rochester, NY (WUHF)
Syracuse, NY (WSYR)

ADVERTISEMENTS
-Accel: Reggie Jackson T-Shirt!
-Armel All-Natural Ice Cream: For those who want the best.
-Ball Park Franks: They plump when you cook'em.
-Beck's: The most famous German word in the English language.
-Bottom Line: Marketing And Corporate Communications
-Brut: Today's your Brut day.
-Budweiser: For all you do ... this Bud's for you.
-Canon AE-1
-Chemical Bank: The chemistry's just right at Chemical.
-Citibank: The city never sleeps.
-Datsun: We are driven.
-Eastern: We have to earn our wings every day.
-French's Mustard: World's Best Selling Prepared Mustard
-Getty: You've come this far. Getty can help you go even further.
-Hotel Pontchartrain: For those who prefer the personal touch ... in Detroit, the choice is simple.
-J&B
-Johnnie Walker Red: Tonight, lead off with Red.
-Macy's New York
-Manufacturers Hanover
-Marlboro
-Marvel: Pour Marvel into your gas.
-Michelob: Put a little weekend in your life.
-New York Life: The security they offer is better than a grand slam home run.
-New York Yankees Beef Franks: The taste that takes you out to the ball game.
-Pabst Blue Ribbon: The real taste of beer.
-Puerto Rican Rums: If you're still drinking whiskey on the rocks ... it's because you haven't tasted gold rum on the rocks.
-Roche: Good nutrition for a healthier life.
-Rolaids: In 1980 the Yankees spelled relief R-I-C-H G-O-S-S-A-G-E.
-Sasoon: Loo La!La!
-Sportschannel: When you can't make it to the game, get your New York Yankees at home.
-Sports Phone: The right call for all sports news.
-Spot-bilt: "Get that extra step when you're on the spot." -Graig Nettles
-The Great All-Time Baseball Record Book
-Toyota
-WABC 77: New York's Radio Station
-Winston: Nobody does it better.

Thursday, February 26, 2015

1981 New York Yankees Opening Day Roster

Yankee Stadium, The Bronx, New York (April 9)

Manager - Gene Michael 11

No. Coaches
48  Joe Altobelli
  8  Yogi Berra
33  Mike Ferraro
40  Charley Lau
41  Jeff Torborg
42  Stan Williams

No. Pitchers
43  Doug Bird (R-R)
35  Bill Castro (R-R)
39  Ron Davis (R-R)
54  Rich Gossage (R-R)
49  Ron Guidry (L-L)
25  Tommy John (R-L)
45  Rudy May (L-L)
46  Gene Nelson (R-R)
38  Tom Underwood (L-L)

No. Catchers
10  Rick Cerone (R-R)
26  Johnny Oates (L-R)
47  Bruce Robinson (L-R)  *
24  Dennis Werth (R-R)

No. Infielders
20  Bucky Dent (R-R)
18  Larry Milbourne (S-R)
  9  Graig Nettles (L-R)
30  Willie Randolph (R-R)
27  Aurelio Rodriguez (R-R)
21  Eric Soderholm (R-R)  *
12  Jim Spencer (L-L)
28  Bob Watson (R-R)

No. Outfielders
13  Bobby Brown (S-R)
17  Oscar Gamble (L-R)
44  Reggie Jackson (L-L)  *
22  Jerry Mumphrey (S-R)
  2  Bobby Murcer (L-R)
14  Lou Piniella (R-R)
31  Dave Winfield (R-R)

Trainers - Gene Monahan, Barry Weinberg

Bullpen Catcher - Dom Scala  51

Batting Practice Pitchers - Doug Melvin  50, Mickey Scott  59

* not on active roster


1981 Yankees Yearbook Roster, Taxi Squad and Prospects
Manager - Gene Michael 11
First Base Coach - Mike Ferraro 33
Third Base Coach - Joe Altobelli 48
Pitching Coach - Stan Williams 42
Batting Coach - Charley Lau 40
Bench Coach - Yogi Berra 8
Bullpen Coach - Jeff Torborg 41

ROSTER
Catcher - Rick Cerone 10, Dennis Werth 24
First Base - Bob Watson 28, Dave Revering 12 
Second Base - Willie Randolph 30
Third Base - Graig Nettles 9, Aurelio Rodriguez 27
Shortstop - Bucky Dent 20, Larry Milbourne 18 (2B)
Left Field - Dave Winfield 31
Center Field - Jerry Mumphrey 22, Bobby Brown 13
Right Field - Reggie Jackson 44, Oscar Gamble 17 (DH), Lou Piniella 14 (DH) 
Designated Hitter - Bobby Murcer 2 (OF)                              

Starting Pitchers:
Ron Guidry 49
Tommy John 25
Dave Righetti 19
Rick Reuschel 36
Rudy May 45
Doug Bird 43

Relief Pitchers:
Rich Gossage 54
Ron Davis 39
Dave LaRoche 34

TAXI SQUAD
Catcher - Johnny Oates 26
First Base - Jim Spencer 21*
Third Base - Eric Soderholm 23*
Outfield - Ruppert Jones 29*, Joe Lefebvre 46

Starting Pitchers:
Tom Underwood 38
Mike Griffin 52

Relief Pitcher:
Bill Castro 35

PROSPECTS
Catcher - Bruce Robinson, Juan Espino, Pat Callahan
First Base - Steve Balboni, Marshall Brant, Todd Demeter
Second Base - Pat Tabler, Rex Hudler
Shortstop - Andre Robertson, Rafael Soriano, Otis Nixon
Outfield - Ted Wilborn, Willie McGee, Don Mattingly (1B), Buck Showalter (1B), Matt Winters

Starting Pitchers:
Gene Nelson 
Mike Morgan
Greg Cochran
Chris Welsh
Brian Ryder
Freddie Tolliver
Roger Slagle

Relief Pitchers:
Tim Lollar
Andy McGaffigan
Paul Boris
Curt Kaufman

* unofficial uniform number

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

1981 New York Yankees Player Development

Vice-President, Baseball Operations- Bill Bergesch
Director of Player Development- Bill Livesey
Director of Scouting - Bobby Hofman
Assistant to the Director of Player Development - Dale Weeks
Assistant to the Director of Scouting - Bob Kalaf


YANKEE FARM CLUBS
AAA
Columbus, Ohio
International League
Manager - Frank Verdi
Coaches - Sammy Ellis, Jerry McNertney, Hopalong Cassady

AA
Nashville, Tennessee
Southern League
Manager - Stump Merrill
Coaches - Pat Dobson, Ed Napoleon

A
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Florida State League
Manager - Doug Holmquist
Coaches - Stan Saleski, Sandy Valdespino

A
Greensboro, North Carolina
Western Carolinas League
Manager - Bob Schaefer
Coaches - Mark Connor, Ken Berry

A
Oneonta, New York
New York-Penn League
Manager - Art Mazmanian
Coaches - Q.V. Lowe, Jack Gillis

Rookie
Paintsville, Kentucky
Appalachian League
Manager - Mike Easom
Coaches - Mike Notaro, Mike McLeod

Rookie
Bradenton, Florida
Gulf Coast League
Manager - Carlos Tosca
Coach - Hoyt Wilhelm, Mark Driscoll

Minor League Hitting Instructors: Joe Pepitone, Mickey Vernon
Minor League Catching Instructor: Bill Evers


SCOUTING
Major League Scouts
Harry Craft (Conroe, Texas)
Clyde King (Goldsboro, North Carolina)
Bob Lemon (Long Beach, California)
Birdie Tebbetts (Ana Maria, Florida)
Regular Scouts:
Luis Arroyo (Puerto Rico)
Joe Begani (Chicago, Illinois)
Jack Bloomfield (McAllen, Texas)
Roy Carter (Nashville, Tennessee)
Hopalong Cassady (Tampa, Florida)
Al Cuccinello (Elmont, New York)
Joe DiCarlo (Ringwood, New Jersey)
Dutch Dotterer (Syracuse, New York)
Fred Ferreira (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
Whitey Ford (Lake Success, New York)
Lou Garcia (Tampa, Florida)
Jack Gillis (Worcester, Massachusetts)
Tom Greenwade (Willard, Missouri)
Jim Gruzdis (Thomasville, North Carolina)
Roy Hamey (Tucson, Arizona)
Jim Hegan (Swampscott, Massachusetts)
Dick Howser (Tallahassee, Florida)
Gary Hughes (Novato, California)
John Kennedy (Peabody, Massachusetts)
Don Lindeberg (Anaheim, California)
Jack Llewellyn (Englewood, Florida)
Jim Naples, Sr. (Buffalo, New York)
Bob Nieman (Anaheim, California)
Frank O'Rourke (Hillside, New Jersey)
Meade Palmer (Wyncote, Pennsylvania)
Gust Poulos (Clearwater, Florida)
Roy Regalis (East Chicago, Illinois)
Robert Shaw (Columbus, Ohio)
Russ Sehon (Lawrence, Kansas)
Mickey Vernon (Wallingford, Pennsylvania)
Jerry Walker (Ada, Oklahoma)
Jerry Zimmerman (Milwaukie, Oregon)

1981 Yankee Spring Training Scout Signings
Jack Bloomfield: Kevin Shannon (1980)
Jack Butterfield: Paul Boris (1978), Joe Lefebvre (1977)
Al Cuccinello: Brian Ryder (1978)
Atley Donald: Ron Guidry (1971)
Tom Greenwade: Bobby Murcer (1964)
Epy Guerrero: Juan Espino (1975), Rafael Santana (1976)
Bill Livesey: Steve Balboni (1978)
Lou Maguolo: Dennis Werth (1974)
Wayne Morgan: Roger Slagle (1976), Ted Wilborn (1976)
Roger Olsen: Curt Kaufman (1979)
Gust Poulos: Andy McGaffigan (1978)
Jax Robertson: Chris Welsh (1977)
Birdie Tebbetts: Pat Callahan (1977)
Jerry Walker: Tim Lollar (1978)
Dave Yoakum: Pat Tabler (1976)


SPRING TRAINING INSTRUCTORS
Manager - Gene Michael
Hopalong Cassady (Columbus coach)
Whitey Ford (special instructor)
Doug Holmquist (Fort Lauderdale manager)
Dick Howser (special instructor)
Jim Hunter (special instructor)
Mickey Mantle (special instructor)
Stump Merrill (Nashville manager)
Ed Napoleon (Nashville coach)
Joe Pepitone (minor league hitting instructor)
Phil Rizzuto (special instructor)
Frank Verdi (Columbus manager)


1981 YANKEES YEARBOOK "ON THE WAY UP"
Paul Boris (RHP)
Marshall Brant (1B)
Pat Callahan (C)
Todd Demeter (OF-1B)
Juan Espino (C)
Rex Hudler (SS)
Curt Kaufman (RHP)
Don Mattingly (1B-OF)
Willie McGee (OF)
Mike Morgan (RHP)
Gene Nelson (RHP)
Otis Nixon (SS-3B)
Andre Robertson (SS)
Buck Showalter (OF)
Roger Slagle (RHP)
Pat Tabler (2B)
Freddie Toliver (RHP)
Ted Wilborn (OF)
Matt Winters (OF)

Monday, February 23, 2015

1981 New York Yankees Prospect Profiles

TIM LOLLAR
"Tim Lollar spent the first two years of his pro career never really knowing what to expect. One day he was a pitcher, the next day a first baseman/designated hitter. After a while, things got a bit confusing.
1980 was a year of decision. The time had come for Tim to devote full-time efforts to his mound work and find out of the talent was there. So Tim set his sights on a full season of Triple-A baseball as a pitcher.
It didn't take long for him to find out that the talent was indeed there. In fact, by mid-July he had burst onto the big league scene in the most impressive fashion. The 6'3", 192-pound southpaw pitched in 14 games in pinstripes and he came away with two key saves, a 1-0 record and some invaluable confidence-building experience. The pride and joy of Farmington, Missouri is hoping that 1981 will bring more of the same. And so are the Yankees."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Another 1980 surprise, Lollar began the season at Columbus where he was 1-1 with five saves and a 1.09 ERA in 16 relief appearances. He allowed only 13 hits in 33 innings before he was recalled on June 24 when Paul Blair was designated for assignment. He stayed with the Yankees until he was optioned back to Columbus on August 11.
Lollar earned two saves with the big club in his first stint and struck out the first batter he faced, Rick Manning. He came back to the Yankees on September 13 and pitched three more times, including his first major league start and first win on the final day of the season, 2-1 over Detroit (six innings, two hits, one run).
This is his first year in camp on the 40-man roster. Last year Tim was in camp as a non-roster player after an 8-5, 3.18 season at West Haven. During his first year ('78) he was also used as a DH at West Haven.
Tim is not related to Sherm Lollar. He was the Southwest Conference MVP in '78 and a Sporting News All-American at Arkansas, where he majored in forestry. He played football, basketball, baseball and golf at Farmington High School, earning All-Conference honors in football. Tim rooted for the Cardinals and Stan Musial as a youngster."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


GENE NELSON (1980 Yankee Minor League Pitcher of the Year)
"Acquired from the Texas Rangers in the Mickey Rivers deal, this 20-year-old right-hander had a 20-3 record at Ft. Lauderdale last year, a club record. He was Pitcher of the Year in the Florida State League, made the All-Star team and looms as a real sleeper in the Yankee future book."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Most people think that your average, ordinary 20-year-olds from Florida spend most of their days riding the waves and most of their nights studying the finer points of life. Well, this 6'1", 180-pound Tampa resident wearing number 46 spends most of his days riding the crest of his rapidly growing reputation and most of his nights studying the enemy hitters.
Gene Nelson is not your average young man! He's a right-hander who has control of not one, not two, but four pitches and with that, he possesses an extraordinary calm out on the mound. A calm which earned him a long look at the 1981 Yankee spring training camp in Ft. Lauderdale ... and a ticket to ride North!
Last season, during his first year in the Yankee organization, Gene pitched in the Class A Florida State League and led the loop with a 20-3 record, 130 strikeouts and a few raised eyebrows. He raised a few more eyebrows this spring and made the seemingly impossible jump all the way to the major leagues. It seems that heads are turning everywhere!"

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Nelson rolled up an excellent 20-3 record in 1980 as the top hurler in the Florida State League. He completed 16 of his 25 starts and led the league with a .870 won-lost percentage. He allowed just 146 hits (and only four home runs) in 196 innings while striking out 130. Nelson led the league in wins, winning percentage, complete games, and shutouts (5).
He had a 12-game winning streak during the season, raising his record from 6-2 to 18-2. Gene struck out 17 batters at Miami on July 31 and was Topps Player of the Month in the Florida State League for July. He also went 1-1 in the playoffs, including a 5-hit shutout.
Nelson was drafted in the 27th round (690th overall) by the Rangers following his graduation from Pasco County (Dade City, Florida) High School. He has a lifetime 38-8 professional record: he was undefeated in 1978 after signing (5-0 at Sarasota) and followed that by going 13-5 in 1979 at Asheville of the Western Carolinas League.
He was a Yankee fan while growing up, even though Nolan Ryan was his favorite player. Gene is the youngest player on the 40-man roster and one of only two born in the 1960s."

-New York Yankees 1981 Media Guide


ANDY MCGAFFIGAN
"Andy McGaffigan is a name that few outside the Yankee Player Development department knew prior to last season. But the tall right-hander made his name known last year around the Double-A Southern League circuit when he was named Pitcher of the Year. In 1980, Andy pitched a 15-5, 2.38 season for the Nashville Sounds. Along the way, he won 12 straight pitching as both a starter and a reliever.
Suddenly, the West Palm Beach, Florida native became a hot commodity and a definite prospect for the Yankees. After all, it's not every day you'll find a pitcher who can give you twice as much for your dollar. Andy McGaffigan. A name to remember."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"McGaffigan was the Most Valuable Pitcher in the Southern League in 1980 as he went 15-5 as a starter, long relief man and short relief man. He led the league in ERA (2.38) and was named to the Southern League All-Stars. Andy tied a league record with 12 straight wins, including eight in relief, earning him the nickname 'Vulture' from pitching coach Pat Dobson. He yielded only five home runs in 170 innings and allowed just 139 hits.
Last year was his second in double-A and he is 24-11 over those two years. Andy had been a starter in all but one game prior to last year but showed versatility in being able to handle any spot on the staff in '80. Originally drafted by the Reds in the 28th round in 1974, he was also drafted in the 4th round (January) by the White Sox in 1976.
Andy has spent his whole life in the West Palm Beach area. He rooted for the Cardinals as a youngster, but Jim Palmer was his favorite player. He credits Sammy Ellis, Pat Dobson and Ken Johnson for much of his success. Andy lists inconsistency as his toughest opponent."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


STEVE BALBONI (1980 Yankee Minor League Player of the Year)
The Scooter calls them 'Balboni Blasts' and the fans at Yankee Stadium can't wait to see this 6'3", 225-pound strong man muscle the ball right over the wall. Home runs are his forte and wouldn't you know the Yankees simply seem to come up with another home run force every few years.
For Steve Balboni, the Yankees' second-round choice in the June 1978 Free Agent Draft, New York will come in time. Right now, Steve's satisfied with these numbers: .301 batting average, 101 runs, 288 total bases, 34 home runs, 17 intentional walks and a Southern League record 122 RBIs. Those figures reflect Steve's 1980 output and that doesn't even include his .990 league leading percentage at first base in 140 games with 1,218 putouts to his credit. At that rate, he can join the Bombers anytime he'd like!"

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"1980 was Balboni's best season yet, setting numerous career highs, establishing several records and winning many honors. He began the season clouting 21 homers in his first 39 games and was batting .351 with 57 RBIs on June 8.
Steve ended the season seventh in the Southern League in batting (.301) and leading the league with 101 runs, 288 total bases, 34 homers, 122 RBIs and 17 intentional walks. His RBI total established a new Southern League record. Steve was also outstanding in the field, leading Southern League first basemen in fielding (.990), games (140), putouts (1,218) and double plays (125).
Balboni was named Southern League All-Star first baseman and Most Valuable Player. He won the Topps Player of the Month Award for the Southern League in May, was named to the Topps Class AA All-Star team and was the Topps Southern League Player of the Year. Balboni was also named Yankees' Minor League Player of the Year.
In 1979 at Fort Lauderdale Steve was the Florida State League MVP as he led the league in games (140), at-bats (504), homers (26), RBIs (91) and strikeouts (154), while in the field he led the league in fielding (.992), putouts (1,297), assists (97) and double plays (106). Steve was named the Topps Florida State League Player of the Month in August. Signed in 1978 by his former college coach Bill Livesey, he made his pro debut at Fort Lauderdale where he hit just one homer in 60 games.
Balboni was a three-sport standout at Memorial High (Manchester, New Hampshire), where he played against Joe Lefebvre, and attended Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, where he played for Bill Livesey, now Yankee Director of Player Development, and teamed with Lefebvre. The MVP at Eckerd, he and Lefebvre helped lead Eckerd to a second place finish in the Division II College World Series in 1977."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


GREG COCHRAN
"In the winter of '79, Greg Cochran quietly, oh so quietly, became the property of the New York Yankees. Purchased from Oakland along with Bruce Robinson, the 6'2", 190-pounder right-hander was looked upon as a 'throw-in' in the deal. No longer is that the case.
Statistically, 1980 was the year that saw this Arizona State graduate come into his own. In 24 starts at Columbus, he put together an impressive 12-7 record and an even more impressive 2.56 ERA. But statistics alone do not reveal the true story, for as anyone who has ever seen this blond-haired craftsman can tell you, this is one solid competitor. One look and you can't help but appreciate the true value of consistency that has become his trademark."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Greg spent the 1980 season at Columbus where he was the staff's second biggest winner (12-7) behind Bob Kammeyer (15-7). He showed an exceptional innings-to-hits ratio (129 hits in 165 innings). He picked up two more wins in the playoffs, hurling a pair of one-run, 7-hit complete games as the Clippers won their second straight title. Greg calls that his greatest thrill as a pro.
Last year was his best in pro ball. Greg was signed by Charlie Finley in 1975 after being drafted by the A's in the second round. He was drafted out of high school in 1971 in the fourth round by the Phillies but went to Arizona State. He's pitched in the New York area, going 10-13 with Jersey City (Eastern League) in 1978.
His sister Jana is married to Mariners pitcher Floyd Bannister. Greg grew up in the Los Angeles area (Whittier) as a Dodger and Don Drysdale fan. He played with Bannister, Ken Landreaux, Gary Allenson, Bump Wills, Rick Peters and Cowboys quarterback Danny White at Arizona State. A College All-American at ASU, Greg has a B.S. degree in marketing."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


BRUCE ROBINSON
"Bruce Robinson made the most of a 1980 season that was almost doomed from the start. He missed all of spring training with tendinitis in his right wrist and missed any chance he had of making the Yankees.
Once he recovered and worked himself into shape, Bruce showed the kind of potential that everyone knew he had when the Yankees acquired him just prior to the 1979 season. The left-handed-hitting catcher from southern California caught over 100 games for Columbus last year and finished second on the club in home runs with 12 and RBIs with 48.
Bruce has spent parts of the last three seasons in the major leagues and is looking toward 1981 as the year when he finally sticks for good. He's a hard worker and an intelligent young Stanford graduate with all the physical tools."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Bruce spent the 1980 season as the number one catcher at Columbus before he came up to the Yankees at the end of the season. He hit .240 in 104 games with the Clippers and was second on the club to league MVP Marshall Brant with 12 home runs and 48 RBIs. Bruce had a good year considering he missed the majority of spring training with tendinitis in his right wrist. 1979 was his first year in the Yankee organization, and he split the catching duties at Columbus with Brad Gulden. Bruce finished second to Dennis Werth on the club with nine home runs while playing in 102 games.
He began his pro career in 1975 at Modesto after the A's made him their No. 1 selection in June 1975. Bruce was voted MVP by the Chattanooga fans after the 1976 season and split 1977 between Chattanooga and San Jose. He spent most of the 1978 season at Vancouver (AAA), batting .299 with 10 home runs and 73 RBIs before being called up to the A's. Bruce hit .250 with eight RBIs in 28 games with Oakland, and following that season was sold to the Yankees. He was originally drafted by the White Sox in June 1972 in the fourth round but he decided to attend Stanford University instead.
Bruce graduated from Stanford with a B.A. in economics. He was named to the Pac-8 Conference All-Stars in 1974, and in his junior year in 1975 drove in 49 runs while hitting a school record 13 home runs; he was named to the Sporting News College All-American team that year. Bruce played semi-pro ball for the Alaska Goldpanners of Fairbanks (1972-75) and played on three consecutive National Baseball Congress championship teams with them (1972-74); his teammates included Steve Kemp, Floyd Bannister and Dave Winfield.
Bruce played baseball, football and basketball at La Jolla High School, where he batted .436 in his senior year. His brother Dave Robinson played for the Padres (1969-71). Bruce had an RBI single off Bill Lee in his first major league at-bat.
He enjoys playing the guitar."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


CHRIS WELSH
"Chris Welsh is a perfect example of the American work ethic being put to good use: a one-time 21st round draft choice who suddenly emerged as one of the Yanks' better prospects. A left-handed hurler who possesses the ability to perform effectively in whatever role he is called upon. A 6'2", 185-pound South Florida graduate who has impressed everyone that has seen him.
He takes pride in the following statistics: 38 complete games in 71 pro starts and a four-year ERA of 3.20. He takes pride in his reputation: a reliable competitor who accepts nothing less than perfection.
For two consecutive seasons, this 25-year-old southpaw was one of the main reasons why the Columbus Clippers became International League champions. It just goes to show you what you can accomplish with a little bit of elbow grease and a ton of pride."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Welsh had a deceptive 9-12 record at Columbus in 1980. His ERA was 2.73 and he allowed just 134 hits in 158 innings and tied Bob Kammeyer for the club lead in complete games (13). He started 24 of his 29 games and hurled two shutouts. Welsh was 2-0 in the playoffs, pitching 14.1 innings and allowing 10 hits and two runs, and was the starter and winner in the Governor's Cup clincher over Toledo.
Last year was his second straight at Columbus. Chris started his career at Oneonta in 1977 and led the league in innings, complete games and strikeouts. He followed with an 11-9 record at West Haven in 1978. 1979 was his first year primarily in relief, and he was 8-4 with three saves at Columbus after an impressive spring camp (13.2 innings pitched, 12 strikeouts, one walk).
Welsh has a B.A. degree in business marketing from the University of South Florida and does some real estate work in the off-season. He was co-captain of the baseball team at USF and honorable mention All-Independent. He enjoys playing the guitar.
Chris grew up in Cincinnati where he rooted for Pete Rose and the Reds."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


BRIAN RYDER
"When Yankee executives talk trade with other baseball teams, one name that is almost always in demand is Brian Ryder. Considered one of the brightest prospects in a farm system full of prospects, Brian has won 35 games in his first three years as a pro, while playing on regular-season championship clubs each year. In his last two years, Brian has fashioned records of 15-5 and 15-9.
The 21-year-old right-hander is big and strong at 6'6" and 222 pounds and appears more like a football tight end than a baseball pitcher. But pitching is where his future is and that future appears to be on the mound in Yankee Stadium."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Ryder had his third straight excellent year in 1980, going 15-9 with a 3.04 ERA. He was the workhorse of the Nashville staff, pitching 201 innings and allowing just 170 hits. He tied for the staff lead in wins and led in strikeouts with 134 and starts with 28.
Brian has progressed steadily through the Yankee system and has played on regular-season championship clubs all three years. He has won 15 games two years in a row and is 35-17 lifetime as a pro. Brian led the Florida State League in strikeouts in 1979 with 156 in 171 innings. He had been a starter for his entire pro career.
Ryder is the second youngest player on the 40-man roster and one of only two born in the '60s. He signed after graduation from Shrewsbury High School, where he was a three-sport star. He was a second-team All-American in baseball, and a Central Massachusetts All-Star in basketball and football (as a quarterback).
Brian was nicknamed by his teammates from the movie 'Easy Rider.' He was the 26th overall pick in the 1978 draft."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


MIKE MORGAN
"Morgan came to the Yankees from the A's in a deal that originally involved Brian Doyle as well as Fred Stanley. He already has three minor league seasons behind him.
Mike was the No. 4 overall draft pick in the June 1978 draft and made his major league debut a few days after he graduated from high school. He pitched a complete game against the Orioles but lost.
Born in Tulare, California, Mike is still learning and still young. He could be outstanding."

-Jim Hawkins, The Complete Handbook of Baseball, 1981 Edition

"From high school to the mound at the Oakland Coliseum was the rapid transition this young right-hander, secured in a trade with the A's, had to make. He spent last season with Ogden where he was only 6-9, but Yankee scouts like the young man's arm and believe he is a real prospect."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Morgan spent the 1980 season at Ogden, the triple-A club of the A's, and was used strictly as a starter, finishing at 6-9. This was the first of his three pro seasons that he failed to pitch in the major leagues.
The 4th player drafted (and first pitcher) in the June 1978 Free Agent Draft, Mike was signed out of Valley High School (Las Vegas) by Charlie Finley and made his big league debut one week later on June 11, losing to the Orioles despite allowing just two earned runs in a complete-game effort.
Mike was recalled in June 1979 and won his first major league game 2-1 against Seattle on July 29 in Oakland. He was the pitcher when Carl Yastrzemski hit his 400th home run.
Mike grew up in Las Vegas as a Cincinnati Reds fan and was a three-sport star at Valley High, winning MVP honors in both football and baseball and also playing basketball. He lists Reggie Jackson as his toughest opponent and Yankee Stadium as his favorite ballpark."

-New York Yankees 1981 Media Guide


JUAN ESPINO
"Dividing his time last year between Nashville and Columbus, this burly catcher from the Dominican Republic continued to impress with his catching ability, but still has problems at bat. This pleasant young man is scheduled to do a lot of catching at Columbus this year."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Espino split the 1980 season between Nashville and Columbus, backing up Brad Gulden and Bruce Robinson. He drove in 25 runs in just 185 at-bats with 36 hits. His time at Columbus was his first taste of triple-A ball.
Juan's best season was 1978 when he hit .280 at West Haven with 37 RBIs in 261 at-bats, and also led Eastern League catchers with a .967 fielding percentage. He's always been a productive hitter, making his hits account for runs.
Espino has spent his whole life in the Dominican Republic. He has been in the Yankee organization for six years, but this is his first appearance on the 40-man roster. Juan has been in camp the last two years as a non-roster invitee."

-New York Yankees 1981 Media Guide


RAFAEL SANTANA
"Santana split the 1980 season between Ft. Lauderdale and Nashville. He began at Nashville, his first taste of double-A ball, and hit .233 in 86 games and had some trouble in the field, committing 25 errors. He committed only nine errors at Ft. Lauderdale in 51 games to field .964, though he didn't qualify for the league lead; the league leader fielded .962.
Rafael has spent four years in the organization, and this is his second year on the 40-man roster. He made the Florida State League All-Star team as a shortstop in 1978 and as a utility infielder in 1979. Rafael led the league's shortstops in fielding in 1979 at .982 and reduced his errors from 48 in '78 to 16 in '79.
He has been brilliant but sometimes erratic in the field and is smooth on the double play from either side of the bag. He's primarily a shortstop but also plays second and third.
A native of the Dominican Republic, Santana has adjusted well to the states. Only 18 when he signed, he has grown tremendously in confidence and maturity."

-New York Yankees 1981 Media Guide


PAT TABLER
"Keep your eye on this 1976 No. 1 selection since he has come on fast the past year as a second baseman. It took a while for this 6'2", 195-pound right-handed hitter to find his position, but he has really impressed since. He led the Southern League with 13 game-winning hits in 1980."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Tabler has come into his own the past two years after struggling in his first three. He had his best season by far in 1980, hitting .296 with 16 home runs and 83 RBIs at Nashville, and the home run and RBI totals were second on the club to Steve Balboni. Pat led the Southern League in game-winning RBIs with 13, was ninth in batting and second in doubles with a club record 38. He was named as the Southern League All-Star second baseman in only his first full year at the position.
Originally drafted as a first baseman-third baseman, Pat has also played the outfield. He found a home at second base mid-way through 1979 at West Haven. He hit .300 there with 36 RBIs in 56 games after beginning the season with .316 at Ft. Lauderdale. Pat has progressed slowly through the system: he spent 1976 at Oneonta and the next two and a half years at Ft. Lauderdale before being elevated to double-A.
Tabler grew up in the Cincinnati area and played football, basketball, and ran track in addition to being all-city, all-state and All-American in baseball at McNicholas High School. He played against Leon Durham and Richard Dotson, and was also all-city and all-district in basketball. One of five children, Pat naturally was a Reds fan and his favorites were Pete Rose and Johnny Bench."

-New York Yankees 1981 Media Guide


TED WILBORN
"Drafted out of the Yankee organization in 1979, this fleet-footed 6'0", 170-pounder returned last year as part of the Rick Cerone-Tom Underwood deal. There has never been any question as to his defensive ability and speed, but the 20-year-old is still trying to find his groove with the bat."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Wilborn had his most productive year at the plate in the minors, playing at AA Nashville in 1980. He posted career highs in games, hits, doubles, triples, homers and RBIs, and led the Southern League with his 14 triples. Wilborn was called up to the Yankees in September and appeared in eight games. He got his first major league hit on October 4 off Aurelio Lopez at Yankee Stadium.
Ted started his career in the Yankee organization. He was the No. 4 selection in the June 1976 Free Agent Draft and was scouted by Wayne Morgan, now of the Blue Jays. He played center field at Oneonta in his first pro season, moved to Ft. Lauderdale in 1977 and split the 1978 season between Ft. Lauderdale and Oneonta. At Oneonta in '78, Ted stole 57 bases in just 65 games (only six shy of the league record) to lead the New York-Penn League and was named the Topps Player of the Month for the New York Penn-League for August of '78. He started switch-hitting that season.
He was drafted at the 1978 Winter Meetings by Toronto and began the 1979 season with the Blue Jays. He appeared in 22 games for Toronto, going 0-for-12, and was sent to Syracuse on July 4 for the remainder of the season.
Wilborn played basketball and football, as well as baseball, at C.K. McClatchy High School in Sacramento where he grew up. He was a Giant fan as a youngster, his favorite being Willie Mays. His father is a high school principal."

-New York Yankees 1981 Media Guide


PAUL BORIS
"Signed out of a minor league tryout camp, this 25-year-old graduate of Rutgers University never impresses anyone ... he just gets them out. Used chiefly as a reliever, Paul has a three-year record of 30-12 with ERAs of 2.41, 2.05 and 2.49 and 26 saves. He has great control and needs only a break."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


MARSHALL BRANT
"One of the key players on last year's International League Championship Columbus club, this 6-5, 215-pound right-handed hitter led the league in homers (23), RBIs (92) and captured the Most Valuable Player award. He finished last season in New York, but is still looking for that big break."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


PAT CALLAHAN
"This fine defensive catcher starts his fifth year in the Yankee organization with high hopes to win the job at Columbus. A good Triple-A year could make him a much sought after No. 2 man. He is excellent defensively and doesn't embarrass himself with the bat. A real battler."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


TODD DEMETER
"This son of the former major league Don Demeter was the Yanks' first draft pick in 1979. This 20-year-old, dividing his time between the outfield and first base, hit 13 homers with 59 RBIs last year but must learn to make better contact. He has a lot of tools and figures to follow his dad to the major leagues shortly."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


REX HUDLER
"Throw out last season for this 1978 No. 1 draft pick since he spent most of it on the disabled list with injuries. Rex is still a young man, but must get serious about his baseball career if he is going to reach the potential predicted for him as a high school star in California."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


CURT KAUFMAN
"This right-hander was the relief star of the Ft. Lauderdale club last year until called up to Nashville. With Lauderdale he was 5-1, had a 0.97 ERA and averaged almost a strikeout an inning. At Nashville he was a starter and posted a 6-2 record for a most respectable 11-3 season. He is a fireballer."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


DON MATTINGLY
"There are many who regard this 20-year-old 6'0", 180-pounder as the best natural hitter in the Yankee minor league system. Last year he led the South Atlantic League in hitting at .358, hits (177) and RBIs (104). Don was also voted the MVP award and made the All-Star team."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


WILLIE MCGEE
"One of the best outfielders in the Yankee organization, this 22-year-old switch-hitter needs one good year with the bat to catapult himself into the big leagues. Injuries slowed him down last year as he hit .283 with Nashville, but he still has a chance to go all the way."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


OTIS NIXON
"Starting slowly, this 22-year-old fleet-footed shortstop led the SAL in runs (124) and in stolen bases with 67 as he earned All-Star honors as a third baseman. He hit a solid .278 with 48 RBIs and figures to move to shortstop this year to improve his versatility and value."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


ANDRE ROBERTSON
"Secured in a deal with Toronto, this 23-year-old shortstop has a great future. He started last year in Ft. Lauderdale, but when called to Columbus in an emergency performed so well that he became the Clippers' shortstop and hit .251. He has good range, excellent speed and a strong arm."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


ROGER SLAGLE
"This high draft pick of the Yanks in 1976 survived being hit with a line drive last year and a couple periods of arm trouble, and needs only a smile from Lady Luck to crash through. The 6'3", 190-pound right-hander has shown plenty of potential, but has always lacked the luck of the draw."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


FREDDIE TOLIVER
"After leading the New York-Penn League with a 10-2 mark in 1979, this 20-year-old right-hander had trouble getting started last year. He couldn't win at Ft. Lauderdale, then went to Greensboro where he was 6-8 with a respectable 2.68 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 126 innings. He should improve with age."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


MATT WINTERS
"This 21-year-old right-handed hitter suddenly came into his own in the second half of last season with Greensboro. He finished with a .320 average, belted 20 homers and drove in 92 runs, which makes him a prospect. In 1978 he led the New York-Penn League in triples with 11. He has power-plus and is now hitting for average."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


BUCK SHOWALTER
"This solid, left-hand hitting outfielder blossomed last year into a .324 hitter at Nashville, leading the Southern League with 178 hits and being named to the league's postseason all-star team. A 25-year-old native Floridian, Buck (his given name is Nathaniel) is a well-built 5'9", 195-pounder."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

Other 1981 New York Yankees Profiles

JIM SPENCER
"Jim Spencer has bought a new house on a lake in his hometown of Severna Park, Maryland where he can enjoy the outdoor life and the great fishing in that particular region of the country. As the temperatures get cooler and the off-season becomes a reality, Jim spends time gazing at his spacious backyard dreaming about the spacious confines of another yard ... the ballyard in the Bronx called Yankee Stadium.
In the past two seasons, Jim has hit 36 enemy baseballs out of that and other American League ballyards. He's also posted his best career average and his best single-season home run production. By sharing first base with Bob Watson, Spencer even gets a chance to extend one of the more unknown records which he holds: a .995 lifetime fielding average, the highest fielding average in American League history by a first baseman! That's something to be proud of.
In 1981, Jim will continue to give the patrons in the outfield stands their money's worth as he slips a few baseballs out their way every once in a while. He'll be snapping those quick wrists and drilling an assortment of low line drives, high, towering fly balls and deep, deep boomers into the right field corner. Keep an eye up, steady glove ready and a cheer in your heart as another Spence drive becomes an additional notch on his home run belt in '81."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Spencer started 1980 slowly, but still finished with 13 home runs and 43 RBIs in 97 games. His homers came in bunches, and he hit five in a 10-game stretch in late June and early July, and four in a five-game span in early September. Jim hit his fourth career grand slam on April 13 at Texas and had a pinch-hit home run on May 2 at Minnesota. He drove in five runs on June 20 against Oakland. He split the first base job with Bob Watson and fielded .980.
Spencer had one of his finest seasons in 1979, with career highs in average (.288) and home runs (23). He averaged one home run every 12.8 at-bats, hit two home runs in one game on three different occasions, and hit a total of eight in September after hitting just seven the whole previous year. Jim committed only two errors, fielding .992. The year before, 1978, he did not commit an error; that was his first Yankee season, and he hit all seven of his homers prior to June 16. Jim was 7-for-24 (.292) as pinch hitter that year and started Games Two, Five and Six of the World Series.
Spencer was the No. 1 draft choice of the Angels in June 1965 and was signed by Al Monchak, currently the Pirates' first base coach. He broke in at Quad Cities in '65 and the next three years he hit 63 home runs and drove in 222 runs at El Paso to earn a trial with Angels late in 1968. He was a unanimous Texas League All-Star in '67 and '68 and MVP in '68 when he led the league in homers (28), RBIs (96) and total bases (267).
He began 1969 in AAA but quickly moved up to the Angels where he hit 10 home runs. He hit .274 with 12 homers and 68 RBIs in 1970 while winning a Gold Glove. He was traded to Texas with Lloyd Allen for Mike Epstein, Rich Hand and Rick Stelmaszek in May 1973, and was named to the All-Star team that year. Jim came back to the Angels for one day in December 1975 for Bill Singer; the next day he was sent to the White Sox along with Morris Nettles for Bill Melton and Steve Dunning.
Jim posted his top two RBI totals for the Sox with 70 in 1976 and 69 in 1977, and matched his then career high home run total with 18 in '77; that same year he had two homers and eight RBIs in a game on two different occasions. A two-time Gold Glove winner (1970 and 1977), his .995 lifetime fielding average is the highest in American League history by a first baseman.
The grandson of Ben Spencer, an outfielder with Washington in 1913, Jim grew up in the Baltimore area and played Little League, Pony, Colt and American Legion ball there. He starred in baseball and basketball at Andover High School (Linthicum). His four-year high school batting average was .407 and he was a high school All-American basketball player his senior year. Jim played in Yankee Stadium in 1963 in the annual Hearst Sandlot Games and hit a home run. He got a base hit in his first at-bat in the big leagues.
Jim's biggest thrill was playing in the World Series and winning the championship in 1978. He enjoys hunting and playing golf."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


RUPPERT JONES
"Yankee fans didn't get much of an opportunity to get to know Ruppert Jones last season. This well-conditioned athlete was hampered by two freak injuries and his season was sliced apart before he could really begin to strut his stuff.
When the Yankees acquired Ruppert from Seattle they knew he could swing the bat, hit with power, play center field and run with the best of them. In his new playground, Yankee Stadium, Rupe was leading the club in RBIs and stealing bases with reckless abandon when emergency stomach surgery halted him in late May.
When R.J. returned to the Yanks after the All-Star break, he was a bit tentative at first. Come August, he was rounding into his usual self as those sensational catches in Baltimore will attest to. Unfortunately, he tried to make another catch in Oakland and suffered a concussion and separated shoulder which sent him back to New York with a one-way ticket suggesting rest and relaxation. 1980 was now just a memory.
Never one to rest on his past, Ruppert feels he owes the fans of New York a chance to see what he can really do and he spent the entire winter rigorously working himself into the best shape ever. Hopefully, 1980's bad luck will turn into 1981's good fortune for the fleet-footed center fielder with number 22 on his back."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"1980 was a tough-luck first season for Rupe in pinstripes. He was leading the club in RBIs on May 27 when he had emergency abdominal surgery to remove a blockage in his intestines. Ruppert came back after the All-Star break and hit a big 10th inning grand slam (first of his career) to beat Ed Farmer and the White Sox on August 12. On August 16 he made a spectacular leaping catch of Eddie Murray's home run bid off Gaylord Perry in Baltimore. Ruppert suffered season-ending injuries (concussion and separated right shoulder) on August 25 running into an unpadded center field wall in Oakland. On the disabled list twice, he ended up missing a total of 76 games.
Jones was Kansas City's No. 3 pick in the June 1973 Free Agent Draft and progressed rapidly through the Royals' minor league system. In his first year of pro ball, he was named to the Pioneer League All-Star team while playing at Billings. Rupe was leading the American Association in homers (19) and RBIs (73) playing at Omaha in 1976 when he was called up to Kansas City on July 31. He singled off Gaylord Perry in his first major league at-bat and hit his first major league homer off Rick Wise in Boston on August 29.
Ruppert was the first player selected in the 1976 American League Expansion Draft and had an excellent rookie year for the first-year Mariners in 1977. He was the only rookie selected to the AL All-Star team and was also named to the Topps Major League All-Rookie team. Rupe hit 24 homers in '77, tops among AL center fielders, and homered to end Dennis Eckersley's hitless inning streak at 22.1, two outs away from Cy Young's record. He also hit the first ever Mariner and first ever Kingdome inside-the-park homer on August 16 against the Yankees' Sparky Lyle.
Jones had surgery in November 1977 to repair torn cartilage in his left knee, then had an emergency appendectomy in Boston on June 17, 1978 and stayed on the disabled list until July 20. He had tied a major league record for center fielders on May 16, 1978 by recording 12 putouts in a major league game.
In 1979 he played in all 162 of the Mariners' games, setting club records by scoring 109 runs, walking 85 times and hitting nine triples. He had 13 assists in the outfield, his third consecutive season in double figures.
Jones was an outstanding three-sport athlete at Berkeley (CA) High where in 1970 he played in the same outfield with Claudell Washington and played against Mike Norris. He batted .457 in his senior year and was selected All-State. He was an excellent guard in basketball and one of only two players to earn All-Tournament honors three times in Northern California's Basketball Tournament of Champions. Also a wide receiver in football, Jones was offered a scholarship to the University of California, Berkeley.
Ruppert enjoys karate, racquetball and basketball."

-New York Yankees 1981 Media Guide


TOM UNDERWOOD
"He found baseball fun again in 1980. 'I enjoy this because the games mean something.'
His goal in '80 was to even his lifetime record at .500, but he didn't quite make it. Underwood always maintained he was a better pitcher than his record indicated while was he with Toronto. He won six in a row for the first time in his career.
Born in Kokomo, Indiana, his brother Pat pitches for the Tigers. Tom has an excellent curve and a decent fastball, too. He insists he is not a strikeout pitcher but admits, 'I get my share.' He can also come in from the bullpen to relieve.
Tom was once the No. 2 pick of the Philadelphia Phillies."

-Jim Hawkins, The Complete Handbook of Baseball, 1981 Edition

"Tom Underwood understands the value of pitching for a good ball club. After all, he toiled in obscurity in Toronto in '78 and '79 for a last-place club before coming to New York. He suffered through some tough losses despite some excellent pitching and posted excellent numbers, other than wins and losses.
The Yankee brass heard about those other numbers and brought him to New York and the Yankees last season. All Tom did was respond with perhaps his finest effort ever despite an always-changing role. Tom began the season in the bullpen, then became a starter, then went back and forth between the pen and the starting rotation. He still won 13 games, contributing to the Yankees' major league record of 68 wins by left-handers. His ability to perform well in any role only served to increase his value to the club.
With one year of pitching under the microscope of the most knowledgeable fans in the world, Tommy should feel more comfortable this season. And at only 27 years old with six years of major league experience behind him, he can only get better with age."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Underwood recorded double-figure wins in 1980 for the first time since 1976. He went 11-7, 3.92 as a starter, and 2-2, 2.45 with two saves in relief. He made his first six appearances from the bullpen before his first start, a 7-4 loss in Baltimore on April 30, then won his next six decisions, a career high win streak. He finished the season on a four-game winning streak. Underwood was third on the staff in starts and hurled two 4-hit shutouts, his career low-hit performances in shutout games. He was 10-4 with a 3.28 ERA at home.
Tom came to the Yankees from Toronto, where he was the Blue Jays Pitcher of the Year in 1979. He spent two years with the Jays and amassed a 13-game losing streak from August 8, 1978 to June 15, 1979, yet was also co-winner of the Labatt's Outstanding Blue Jay Pitcher Award in 1978; in 10 of his 14 losses that year, the Jays failed to score more than three runs; Tom pitched a 2-hitter against Oakland on May 2 to set a club record for a low-hit complete game, and he lost 2-1; he picked up his first AL win with a 4-0 shutout of the A's in his next start.
Underwood came to the Jays in the winter of '77 along with Victor Cruz in exchange for Pete Vuckovich and John Scott. Tom was with the Cards for only half of a season, coming over in June 1977 from Philadelphia along with Dane Iorg in exchange for Bake McBride. 1977 was his first losing year after a 25-18 record in Philadelphia from 1974-77, including a 21-4 record at Veterans Stadium.
Tom was the Phillies' No. 2 selection in the June 1972 Free Agent Draft and made it to the majors in just his second pro year. He was a combined 27-12 in the minors, averaging almost a strikeout an inning. He was the left-handed pitcher on the Topps All-Rookie team in 1975.
Tom's dad played briefly in the Phillies organization and his brother Pat pitches for the Tigers. Tom lost to his brother 1-0 on May 31, 1979.
Tom played football, basketball and baseball all four years at Kokomo High School, rooted for the Yankees and Mickey Mantle as a youngster, and attended the University of Indiana for one year. He made his major league debut on Monday night television and gave up six runs in just one-third of an inning, including a Joe Morgan grand slam."

-New York Yankees 1981 Media Guide


MIKE GRIFFIN
"Few people gave Mike Griffin a chance to make the Yankees during the Spring of 1980. After all, Mike was just 22 years old and even though he had pitched professionally for four years, he had only been with the Yankee organization for one. But the tall (6'5") right-hander surprised many observers with a good fastball, good control and a world of savvy in spring performances.
Mike's fine pitching earned him the James P. Dawson Award as the outstanding rookie in camp and, more importantly, earned him a spot on the Opening Day 25-man Yankee roster. Mike went on to pitch well for the Yanks and also spent time at Columbus where he ended the season winning six in a row. Hopefully, that season-ending spurt and the experience pitching in the majors last year will buoy young Mike Griffin to an even better year in '81!"

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Griffin made the Yankees in 1980 on the strength of a good spring (2-0, 4.50) and won the James P. Dawson Award as the outstanding rookie in camp. He earned his first major league win on May 22, 5-1 at Toronto (seven innings, seven hits, one run), and also won his next time out, beating Detroit 9-6. He was a starter in his first eight appearances.
Mike was sent down on June 23 with a 2-2 record when Oscar Gamble was reinstated from the DL. After a 1-2 start at Columbus, he won six games in a row, posting a 1.56 ERA in seven games. In between, he was recalled on August 12 (after the first three wins of the six straight), but was sent back to the next day when Gaylord Perry was acquired. Mike was recalled again on September 12 and lost his last two decisions.
Just 23 years old, this is his sixth pro season. Mike came to the Yanks after the 1978 season and had an excellent first Yankee season in 1979, going 8-7, 2.95 at West Haven and 3-1, 1.76 at Columbus. He made his major league debut in September and earned a save on September 30 against Toronto.
Mike signed with Texas after graduating from Woodland High School (Woodland, CA) and spent 1976 and '77 at Asheville. He had a super season in 1977, leading the league in wins (17), complete games (19), innings (209) and strikeouts (201). Mike was Topps Western Carolinas Player of the Month in both June and July that year. Promoted to Tulsa in 1978, he had a disappointing 6-19 year.
Griffin earned three letters at Woodland High School, was the team MVP his senior year, and was also named All-Northern California and All-Sacramento Valley. He was a Red Sox fan as a youngster and his favorite player was Carl Yastrzemski.
Mike struck out the first batter he faced in a major league game, Andre Thornton."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


ERIC SODERHOLM
"Eric Soderholm joined the Yankees last year with the understanding that he would be primarily a right-handed designated hitter and part-time third baseman only if Graig Nettles decided to take a rest. The man they call the 'Hulk' added right-handed power to the Yankees as a DH early in the year and, after a slow start, was playing when Nettles was felled by hepatitis.
Then Eric began pressing and went into a slump. But he came on strong toward the end of the year and delivered some key hits down the stretch. That's the way Eric Soderholm's career has gone- slow start, strong middle, slight setback and strong comeback.
The key watchword for Eric's career has been comeback. He was the American League's Comeback Player of the Year in 1977 after missing a season with a bad knee injury. And he came back last year with three home runs and eight RBIs in his final four games.
The Yankees look for a complete comeback in 1981- a comeback to the form that saw him drive in 67 runs in both 1977 and 1978. With that kind of return to form, Eric Soderholm's contribution will help the Yankees come back to win a World Championship."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Soderholm got off to a great start as the Yankee right-handed DH in 1980 and was hitting .331 when Nettles went out on July 23. He went hitless in his first three games as the regular third baseman, then went on an eight-game hitting streak and was at .322 on August 4. Eric went into a bad slump after that and his average dropped below .280. He still delivered a clutch ninth-inning pinch-hit single to beat Cleveland on September 23 and a grand slam to beat Detroit three days later. The grand slam was his 100th career home run.
He finished the season by going 8-for-15 with three home runs and eight RBIs in his final four games. Eric had six three-hit days and went 5-for-5 against Toronto on June 1. He hit .305 as a DH.
He was a first-round draft choice of the Twins in 1968 and was named Florida State League Player of the Year that season. After four seasons in the minors, he was called up at the end of the 1971 season. His first full season was 1972, then he split '73 between Tacoma and Minnesota. Soderholm became a steady hitter for the Twins, batting .276 in '74 and .286 in '75. He also set a Twins record for fielding at third base in 1975 with a .969 percentage.
Eric spent the entire 1976 season on the disabled list after suffering partially torn cartilage in his left knee, and then broke his ribs after a fall into a construction hole. He underwent extensive rehabilitation and authored the book 'Conditioning in Baseball' about that rehab program. Eric played out his option with the Twins and signed with the White Sox on November 26, 1976.
He hit .280 in 1977 with 25 home runs and was the landslide winner of the American League Comeback Player of the Year award. He started slowly in 1978 because of shin splints, but still got into 143 games and hit 20 homers. Eric started 1979 with the Sox and was dealt to Texas on June 15 in exchange for Ed Farmer and Garry Holle. He hit 51 homers in his two and a half seasons in Chicago. He finished 1979 with only seven errors and a .975 fielding percentage, second in the AL.
Eric is heavily involved in weight and physical training with Nautilus. The Nautilus Company produced a 20-minute film about his rehab program and comeback.
He grew up in Miami, where he played American Legion ball, and was the MVP at Miami's Coral Park High School and an All-City shortstop. He went to South Georgia JC, where he was an All-American JUCO shortstop, and also attended the University of Tampa and the University of South Florida and is 12 credits short of his degree in physical education. His younger brother Dale is an infielder in the Twins organization.
Eric hit a home run in his second big league at-bat. He was a Yankee fan as a youngster."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


BILL CASTRO
"Bill Castro is a name familiar to American League fans because for the past six years he has toiled in the uniform of the Milwaukee Brewers. In four of those six seasons, Bill led Brewer pitchers in earned run average, and entering 1981 his lifetime mark is a robust 2.96.
Now Bill Castro wears the Yankee pinstripes, and the little right-hander is pleased to be in the Yankee fold. He's been consistent over the years, and a delight for the fans of Milwaukee. And despite his six years of experience, the native of the Dominican Republic is only 27 years old.
At that tender age, it appears as if Bill Castro's best years are still to come. He's posted ERA's the past three years under 3.00 and in 1980 appeared in more games and pitched more innings than ever before. Each year he seems to be getting better and it's nice to know that with those best years in his future, Bill Castro is now a Yankee."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


JOE LEFEBVRE
"Big things come in small packages. And for every man who has ever dreamed of the big leagues, here is your man of the hour. At 5'10", 175 pounds, Joe Lefebvre is the Yankee version of Walter Mitty. He lives the fantasies of a million dreamers each and every time he trots to his position.
Just consider the following: a good prospect, Joe led one league in runs scored and another in runs batted in, but no one expected him to burst onto the big league scene like he did last year. He began the season at Triple-A and was leading the International League in home runs when the call came to join the Yankees in May. Once given the chance, Joe homered in his first two Yankee games, tying an American League record, and hit safely in his first six major league games. Joe finished with eight Yankee home runs and 21 RBIs in just 150 at-bats and showed New Yorkers why his arm has been called the best in the Yankee organization.
Deep down inside all of us, there's a little Walter Mitty waiting to break out. For Joe Lefebvre, the breakout is underway and now it's reality and 1981."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"One of the big surprises of 1980, Lefebvre was leading the International League with seven homers on May 15 when he was called up to the Yankees due to a toe injury to Oscar Gamble. Joe didn't play until May 22 but homered in his first two games (the second was a pinch homer) to tie an American League record for most homers in his first two games. He hit safely in his first six major league games.
In his first game against Boston, Joe homered twice off Dennis Eckersley in Yankee Stadium on June 23. He had eight homers and 21 RBIs when he was sent back to Columbus just after the All-Star break. 1980 was to be his first full season of triple-A ball.
Joe began his pro career at Fort Lauderdale in 1977, batting .308, and moved up to AA ball in 1978 at West Haven and led the Eastern League in runs (102) and tied for the league lead with 11 triples. In 1979 he was an Eastern League All-Star outfielder, lead the league with 107 RBIs, was ninth in batting (.292) and led outfielders with 16 assists. Joe was called up to Columbus for the International League playoffs and batted .273, hitting safely in seven of his nine games. He also appeared on the mound in three minor league games (one at Fort Lauderdale in 1977 and two at West Haven in 1979).
Lefebvre played baseball and basketball at Concord (New Hampshire) High and was MVP in baseball his junior and senior years. He played baseball at Eckerd where he was a first-team All-American and the MVP in the Division II College World Series as a sophomore. Lefebvre played against Steve Balboni in high school and teamed with him at Eckerd. His coach at Eckerd was Bill Livesey, Yankees' Director of Player Development.
Joe is one year away from a degree in recreation and sociology. Of French-Canadian ancestry, he enjoys working with disadvantaged children."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


JOHNNY OATES
"Johnny Oates is living proof that you can't keep a good man down. Released by the Dodgers just prior to the opening of the 1980 season, John signed with the Yankees and proved to be an excellent backup catcher to all-star Rick Cerone. And when the Yankees re-signed him in February of this year, it was as a player-coach at Columbus.
But an injury to Bruce Robinson, and an excellent spring that saw Oates hit .371 in addition to his usual outstanding defense, earned him another ticket to the major leagues at the start of the season and delayed for a while the fine future this solid citizen has as an instructor of young prospects.
This is John's tenth big league season, and through the previous nine he has been one of baseball's steadiest performers. He has been a starter in Atlanta, Philadelphia and Baltimore, and a better than adequate insurance policy with the Dodgers and Yankees. It's nice to have that kind of insurance, and nice to have a good man like Johnny Oates ready to assist the progress of young Yankee catching talent."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


DR. JOHN J. BONAMO (Team Physician)
"Dr. John J. Bonamo enters his third season as the official Yankee team physician. He is the Clinical Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU Medical Center and a graduate of Boston College and New York Medical Center."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Dr. John J. Bonamo enters his third year as the Yankees team physician. He is an orthopedic surgeon affiliated with Staten Island and NYU Hospitals and is a graduate of Boston College and New York Medical College."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


GENE MONAHAN (Trainer)
"Gene Monahan begins his second decade as a member of the Yankee family, an association which began in 1962 when Gene was a batboy with the Fort Lauderdale Yankees. In his season with the parent Yankee club, he remains one of the most respected trainers in the game."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Gene Monahan, Yankee trainer, is now in his ninth year with the parent club. At 36, he is in his 19th year with the Yankee organization, starting as a batboy at Fort Lauderdale. He is a graduate of Indiana University."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


BOB SHEPPARD (Public Address Announcer)
"Bob Sheppard is a professor of speech at St. John's University and the PA announcer for the New York Giants, but his true love blossoms in April. That's when the Yankees head north to Yankee Stadium and Bob becomes the Stadium voice of the Yankees. One of the most recognizable voices in America, Bob has been with the Yankees for 30 years."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


BARRY WEINBERG (Assistant Trainer)
"Barry Weinberg enters his third season as the assistant trainer of the Yankees. He has served as a trainer in the Pittsburgh Pirate organization and with the Washington Redskins. Barry is a Springfield College graduate with a Masters degree from Indiana University."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Barry Weinberg enters his third season as the Yankees' assistant trainer. Before joining the Yanks, he had been a trainer in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization, most recently at their Triple-A club in Columbus in 1978. Barry is a graduate of Springfield College with a Masters from Indiana University."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


JIM ESPOSITO (Head Groundskeeper)
"Jim Esposito enters his 22nd year maintaining the hallowed ground at the House That Ruth Built. Prior to his tenure at the Stadium, Jim worked for the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers for 14 seasons.
That fine look of the Stadium turf is a tribute to Jim and his hard working ground crew."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Jimmy Esposito, chief of the Yankee ground crew, began his role in 1960 after 14 seasons with the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


JIM OGLE (Yankee Alumni Association)
"Jim Ogle has been a baseball writer for 40 summers and has spent 20 years covering the Bronx Bombers for the Newark Star-Ledger. He currently heads the Yankee Alumni Association from his home in Fort Lauderdale and is the Executive Director of the quarterly alumni publication called 'Pinstripes.'"

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


EDDIE LAYTON (Stadium Organist)
"Eddie Layton plays the wonderful music heard when entering Yankee Stadium. He's a master of the keyboards with over 25 albums to his credit. He was with the Yankees from 1967 to 1970 and returned home to his home away from home in 1978.
Credited with debuting the famous 'Charge' call, Eddie may also be heard at most Madison Square Garden events ... in the off-season that is!"

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook


PETE SHEEHY (Clubhouse Man and Equipment Manager)
"Pete Sheehy means baseball to any man who knows him. Pete is the man who shined Lou Gehrig's shoes, fetched Joe DiMaggio's coffee, creased Babe Ruth's uniform and tidied Casey Stengel's managerial office. As the reigning veteran equipment man in baseball, 55 seasons starting with 1927, Pete can still maintain the clubhouse and put everything in its proper place.
In 1976, Pete was one of four honored guests at the opening of the 'new' Yankee Stadium, and the Yankee clubhouse, at that time, was renamed the 'Pete Sheehy Clubhouse.'"

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Pete Sheehy, after whom the Yankee clubhouse is named, is now in his 55th season as equipment man and clubhouse attendant. The likeable Pete was among those specially honored at Opening Day of the 'new' Yankee Stadium."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


LOU CUCUZZA (Visitors Clubhouse Manager)
"Lou Cucuzza enters his sixth season running the visitors clubhouse at Yankee Stadium. This Bronx, New York native has pinstripes in his blood, but remains content working with the visiting teams that come into Yankee Stadium."

-The New York Yankees Official 1981 Yearbook

"Lou Cucuzza is in his sixth year running the visitors clubhouse at the Stadium."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


DOM SCALA (Bullpen Catcher)
"Dom Scala, the Yankees' bullpen catcher, is in his fourth season in that capacity. He is a graduate of St. John's University and played in the Oakland organization."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


DOUG MELVIN (Right-Handed Batting Practice Pitcher)
"Doug Melvin begins his second season as a batting practice pitcher. Doug, who pitched in the Yankee organization for six years, also charts the Yankee defense."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide


MICKEY SCOTT (Left-Handed Batting Practice Pitcher)
"Mickey Scott joined the Yankees in 1980 as a left-handed batting practice pitcher. Mickey pitched in the Yankees organization and pitched in the majors for the Orioles, Expos and Angels."

-1981 New York Yankees Media Guide