Vice-President, Minor League Operations - Johnny Johnson
FARM CLUBS
Secretary, Farm System - George Pfister
AAA
Toledo, Ohio
International League
Manager - Loren Babe
Training Camp - Hollywood, Florida
AA
Columbus, Georgia
Southern League
Manager - Jack Reed
Training Camp - Hollywood, Florida
A
Greensboro, North Carolina
Carolina League
Manager - Gary Blaylock
Training Camp - Hollywood, Florida
A
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Florida State League
Manager - Lamar North
Training Camp - Hollywood, Florida
A
Binghamton, New York
New York-Penn League
Manager - Frank Verdi
Training Camp - Hollywood, Florida
Rookie
Johnson City, Tennessee
Appalachian Rookie League
Rookie
Sarasota, Florida
Florida Rookie League
SCOUTING
Secretary, Scouting System - Bill Harbour
Luis Arroyo (Ponce, Puerto Rico)
Cloyd Boyer (Webb City, Missouri)
Dolph Camilli (Daly City, California)
Patrick Colgan (Carbondale, Pennsylvania)
Arthur Dede (Brooklyn, New York)
Atley Donald (Inverness, Florida)
Danny Doyle (Stillwater, Oklahoma)
Gil English (Trinity, North Carolina)
Joe Frisa (Buffalo, New York)
Jim Gleeson (Kansas City, Missouri)
Tom Greenwade (Willard, Missouri)
Randy Gumpert (Berks County, Pennsylvania)
Harry Hesse (Bronx, New York)
Willis Hudlin (Little Rock, Arkansas)
Gordon Jones (Pasadena, California)
Tom Kane (Albany, New York)
Lou Maguolo (St. Louis, Missouri)
Joe McDermott (Mondamin, Iowa)
Buster Mills (Ranger, Texas)
Lou J. Morton (Moore, Oklahoma)
Wally Moses (Bronx, New York)
Johnny Neun (Baltimore, Maryland)
Frank O'Rourke (Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Pat Patterson (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Jose Seda (Hato Rey, Puerto Rico)
Bill Skiff (Bronx, New York)
Mayo Smith (Lake Worth, Florida)
Steve Souchock (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
Eddie Taylor (Seattle, Washington)
Jack Warner (Los Angeles, California)
SPRING TRAINING INSTRUCTORS
Manager - Johnny Keane (Manager)
Vern Benson (Coach)
Cloyd Boyer (minor league pitching coach)
Frankie Crosetti (Coach)
Joe DiMaggio (special instructor)
Jim Hegan (Coach)
Wally Moses (minor league batting instructor)
Johnny Neun (spring training camp coordinator)
Jack Reed (Columbus manager)
Jim Turner (Coach)
1966 YANKEES YEARBOOK "YANKEES OF TOMORROW"
Stan Bahnsen (RHP)
Gil Blanco (LHP)
Bill Burbach (RHP)
Frank Fernandez (C)
Mike Ferraro (3B)
Mike Hegan (1B)
Mike Jurewicz (RHP)
Archie Moore (OF)
Ross Moschitto (OF)
John Schroeppel (LHP)
Chet Trail (SS)
Steve Whitaker (OF)
"Despite the new free agent draft rules in effect, the Yankees still maintain a large scouting staff of 30 full-time operatives and many more part-time 'bird dog' scouts who roam the country and the Caribbean. Five regular farm clubs and two first-year Rookie League teams (and the Yanks are the only major league organization maintaining two rookie clubs) are used for the training and developing of some 150 prospective Yankees.
Few Yankees ever step directly from the sandlots to fabled Yankee Stadium. The road to the majors for most Yanks is through the club's thorough farm system. Specially chosen minor league managers, coaches and instructors help the youngsters polish the rough edges. The Yankee front office in New York keeps a close watch on the development of each prospect in an effort to speed young players to the parent club."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Other 1966 Yankee Profiles
STEVE HAMILTON
"Steve Hamilton has been a Yankee for three full years, has averaged better than 35 appearances a season, yet has never hurled more than 64 innings in a campaign. Used primarily as a spot relief man (and mostly against left-handed hitters), Steve has been a mighty strong bullpen operative. His effective work has almost certainly won him even more important assignments this season.
Last year Steve posted an amazing 1.40 earned run average, best in the American League (though he did not pitch enough innings to qualify for the title). A knowledgeable hurler, the 6'7" Hamilton has become just about the best southpaw relief specialist in the league. The 29-year-old, who averaged a strikeout an inning when he first joined the Yankees in 1963, has excellent control ... a must factor in relief duty.
In the off-season, the popular Steve serves as assistant basketball coach and physical education instructor for his alma mater, Morehead State College (Kentucky). He would like to return home next winter with a championship."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Acquired from Washington Senators in exchange for pitcher Jim Coates, April 21, 1963.
Averaged a strikeout per inning pitched, 1963.
Assistant basketball coach and phys-ed instructor, Morehead State College, Morehead, Kentucky, in off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
HAL RENIFF
"Hal Reniff has been a Yankee since 1961, with only a brief trip back to the minors for seasoning. Up to this year, the portly right-hander had pitched in 167 major league games ... and he didn't start a single one. Trained as a relief specialist, the blond 27-year-old Californian has compiled a 15-11 won-lost record and a creditable 3.14 lifetime earned run mark.
And that record is going to be improved upon in 1966. Hal went into spring training with an optimistic air of aggressiveness about him. During the last off-season, Hal worked for the Yankees in ticket sales promotion and he doesn't want to answer 'What's wrong?' questions next winter.
'I've got a wife and a baby now and I missed that World Series check,' Hal said with a smile. It isn't just the Series checks Reniff likes. He's been in four World Series games (briefly, to be sure) and has never been scored upon. Hal would like to try his hand at Series pitching again this fall."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee Organization, June 23, 1956.
Led Yankee pitchers in games (48) and games saved (18), 1963.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
FRITZ PETERSON
"Fritz Peterson is a 24-year-old left-handed pitcher with no previous exposure before New York baseball fans. But based on his performances in the minors last season and his work in spring training this year, it won't be long before this personable southpaw is well known to Yankee fans.
An outstanding semi-pro hockey wing, he gave up the ice sport when he signed with the Yankees. Fritz credits Cloyd Boyer, Yankee minor league pitching coach, with his rapid development last year. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, he now is working on his master's degree. He compiled a dazzling 11-1 record (1.50 ERA) at Greensboro before moving up to Columbus in 1965."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 27, 1963.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Fritz attends Northern Illinois U. in the off-season. He has a minor league record of 30-16. Fritz won 11, lost 1 with a 1.50 ERA for Greensboro in 1965. He gave up hockey to play professional baseball. Fritz won a spot on the roster with a fine Spring Training performance."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
DOOLEY WOMACK
"Dooley Womack has been in the Yankee organization since September 1958 and never advanced as high as Triple A ball until last summer. Now he's bidding for a spot on the Yankee varsity roster. This sudden turn of events for the likeable right-hander from Columbia, South Carolina resulted from an impressive league-leading earned run average of 2.17 at Toledo last summer while Dooley was posting a 10-4 won-lost record for the Mudhens. In his first three spring training outings, the 26-year-old pitcher hurled shutout ball and the Yankees took due notice.
Horace Guy 'Dooley' Womack is off to a fine start in the American League, too, and he hopes that his early successes continue whether he is pitching in long or short relief, or as a spot starter."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 23, 1958.
Led International League in ERA (2.17), 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Dooley has been a consistently good minor league pitcher since 1958. He led the International League in 1965 with a 2.17 ERA, winning 10 and losing 4 for Toledo. Dooley moves the ball around well and has good control."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
JAKE GIBBS
"Jake Gibbs is entering his sixth year in the Yankee organization, and despite several 'cups of coffee' with the parent club, 1966 marks the first year the former Ole Miss All-American quarterback is a full-fledged Yankee. Signed originally as a third baseman, it took Jake several years of minor league schooling to develop into a major league receiver. Now he appears to have made it and Yankee fans can look for solid catching and an effective punch at the plate from the 27-year-old Mississippian.
Recipient of the biggest bonus ever paid by the Yankees, Gibbs has had to battle to make it with the Bombers. En route to Yankee Stadium he suffered some four broken fingers while learning the 'tools of ignorance.' But during the last half of 1965 and especially spring training, Jake showed real major league talent. He's made it and he's glad. And so are the Yankees!"
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
All-American quarterback at Ole Miss, 1960.
All-American in baseball, 1960 and 1961.
Signed by Yankee organization, May 25, 1961- Yankees' highest paid bonus player.
Recalled from Toledo, June 15, 1965.
Assistant backfield coach at Ole Miss during off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
HORACE CLARKE
"Horace Clarke has to break into the Yankee infield eventually, and maybe sooner than that. The Virgin Islander, who started his career at shortstop, played mostly third for the Yankees last year when he hit .259 in segments of a year interrupted by some time spent with Toledo. He is a switch hitter who doesn't strike out much. His best position is second base, but the perennial presence there of Bobby Richardson has made breaking in a difficult chore. In the off-season, Clarke played winter ball with the Ponce club in Puerto Rico where famed Yankee reliever Luis Arroyo was his manager."
-Harold Rosenthal, 1966 Baseball Guidebook
"Horace Clarke is a highly capable switch-hitting second baseman. International League opponents were fully aware of the fact in 1964 and '65. But with Bobby Richardson the tenant second baseman, Clarke can best serve the Yankees by developing his infield versatility. This he has done effectively.
The Virgin Island infielder, who will be 26 in June, has a live bat and the tools to play any infield position satisfactorily. Signed originally at the age of 17, Horace moved up in the Yankee farm system, hitting well on the way. He batted .301 each of the last two AAA campaigns and .259 in 51 games with the Yankees last summer. Clarke led Yankee pinch-hitters with a nifty .346 mark (9 for 26). His first and only major league home run last season was a gaudy grand slam that helped defeat Cleveland 9-4 on September 21.
Clarke's versatility in the infield and as a pinch-hitter and runner plus his ability as a switch-hitter adds important depth to the Yanks."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, January 14, 1958.
Brought up from Toledo, May 11, 1965, optioned to Toledo, June 30, 1965, recalled from Toledo, September 1, 1965.
His first two major league home runs were grand slams- one in 1965 and one in 1966.
Yankees' top pinch hitter in 1965 (.346, 9-for-26).
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
DICK SCHOFIELD
"Another early-season trade that helped the Giants was the one that brought them Dick Schofield from Pittsburgh. Though he didn't have a good year at the plate (he batted .209), Dick was the league's best-fielding shortstop with a percentage of .981.
He's a 13-year veteran of the National League, having broken in with the Cardinals in 1953 as an early-day bonus boy. He had a second-string role with the Cards and later with the Pirates until 1963, when the trade-off of Dick Groat made him the regular shortstop.
His glove is good enough to carry a .240 average, which is about what he normally hits."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Dick Schofield is a newcomer to Yankee ranks and to the American League. A veteran of 13 seasons in the National League (with the Cardinals, Pirates and San Francisco Giants), the switch-hitting shortstop was purchased by Manager Ralph Houk for utility duty and infield protection. Dick can play second and third, as well as the outfield in an emergency although shortstop has been his regular position since he first signed a substantial bonus contract with St. Louis in 1953.
Schofield appeared as a Pirate opponent in the 1960 World Series against the Yankees and got one hit in three plate appearances. He is the fifth Yankee to switch-hit of the 15 non-pitchers on the roster. Dick feels sure he can contribute to the Yankee cause this year and in the future. He's only 31 despite his lengthy big league experience."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
"A veteran of 13 seasons with the Cardinals, Pirates and Giants, Dick hit .333 in 65 games for the 1960 Pirates and played in the 1960 World Series against the Yankees. He has played shortstop, second and third in the majors. Dick was purchased by the Yankees from the Giants on May 11, 1966."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
HECTOR LOPEZ
"Hector Lopez has been a valuable Yankee since joining the club from Kansas City in 1959. Now at 33, the native of Colon, Panama and resident of West Hempstead, Long Island finds new challenges for his role as No.1 outfield replacement. The competition comes from a youngster (switch-hitting 22-year-old Roy White) and a seasoned veteran (28-year-old Lou Clinton).
His lifetime .271 batting average for 11 major league seasons is third highest on the club (only Mickey Mantle at .306 and Elston Howard at .284 are ahead of him).
His seven RBIs in only four games and nine at-bats in the 1961 World Series vs. Cincinnati tied an RBI record for a five-game Series. Overall, in 15 World Series games, Hec has batted .286.
Lopez has played in more than 100 games in six of his seven Yankee seasons, proof of his value as an all-around handyman."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Hit three home runs in one game with Kansas City against Washington, June 26, 1958.
Acquired by New York Yankees along with pitcher Ralph Terry for pitchers Johnny Kucks and Tom Sturdivant and infielder Jerry Lumpe, May 26, 1959.
Shares World Series record, most RBIs, five-game Series (7), against Cincinnati, 1961.
Has third highest lifetime batting average (.271) among present Yankee players, surpassed only by Mickey Mantle (.306) and Elston Howard (.284).
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
LOU CLINTON
"Lou Clinton joined the Yankees this spring after appearing briefly with the Angels, Athletics and Indians last season. The hard-hitting outfielder was bidding for a spot as a spare outfielder and pinch-hitter on the Yankees and his strong spring performances won him an important shot with the club.
Now only 28, Clinton is best remembered for the final half of the 1962 season when his blazing bat registered a .326 average for the final 85 games of the campaign with Boston. A strong-armed outfielder with good power, he is the kind of player that adds considerably to a club's depth and the Yankees are hoping Lou Clinton will play an important role in the team's 1966 comeback as a pennant threat."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Had seven straight hits for Red Sox in doubleheader against Twins, July 4, 1962.
Was hottest hitter in American League during second half of 1962 season while with the Red Sox, hitting .326 in his last 85 games.
Acquired by Yankees from Cleveland in exchange for Doc Edwards, January 1966.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"A veteran of the Red Sox, Angels, Athletics and Indians, Lou hit .326 during the second half of the 1962 season with the Red Sox, including seven straight hits against the Twins on July 4. He was acquired from Cleveland for catcher Doc Edwards on January 14, 1966. Lou hit well this spring."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
ROY WHITE
"Roy White led the AA Southern League in runs, hits and triples, and was second in batting with a .300 average. He was a competent second baseman. All-in-all, the switch-hitting Californian was the Southern's Most Valuable Player in 1965.
He came up to the Yankees last September and played the outfield for the first time. In 14 games, Roy hit .333. This spring he was elected winner of the coveted Longines Watch ('World's Most Honored Watch') as the top rookie in camp.
Not a big fellow at 5'11" and 166 pounds, the bespectacled White packs surprising power and has excellent speed on the bases. One of Roy's biggest boosters is Joe DiMaggio, who admires his smooth, graceful swing from either side of the plate.
'A good bet to be a real .300 hitter,' complimented the Clipper."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee Organization, July 1, 1961.
Led Southern League in runs (103), hits (168) and triples (14), and was second in hitting (.300), 1965.
Named MVP in the Southern League, 1965.
Recalled from Columbus [Southern League], September 1, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Roy was MVP of the Southern League with Columbus in 1965, leading the league in runs (103), hits (168) and triples (14) while batting .300. He was impressive as a lead-off man for the Yankees in Spring Training. Roy has a quick bat and runs well. He played in 14 games for the Yankees in 1965."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
"Steve Hamilton has been a Yankee for three full years, has averaged better than 35 appearances a season, yet has never hurled more than 64 innings in a campaign. Used primarily as a spot relief man (and mostly against left-handed hitters), Steve has been a mighty strong bullpen operative. His effective work has almost certainly won him even more important assignments this season.
Last year Steve posted an amazing 1.40 earned run average, best in the American League (though he did not pitch enough innings to qualify for the title). A knowledgeable hurler, the 6'7" Hamilton has become just about the best southpaw relief specialist in the league. The 29-year-old, who averaged a strikeout an inning when he first joined the Yankees in 1963, has excellent control ... a must factor in relief duty.
In the off-season, the popular Steve serves as assistant basketball coach and physical education instructor for his alma mater, Morehead State College (Kentucky). He would like to return home next winter with a championship."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Acquired from Washington Senators in exchange for pitcher Jim Coates, April 21, 1963.
Averaged a strikeout per inning pitched, 1963.
Assistant basketball coach and phys-ed instructor, Morehead State College, Morehead, Kentucky, in off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
HAL RENIFF
"Hal Reniff has been a Yankee since 1961, with only a brief trip back to the minors for seasoning. Up to this year, the portly right-hander had pitched in 167 major league games ... and he didn't start a single one. Trained as a relief specialist, the blond 27-year-old Californian has compiled a 15-11 won-lost record and a creditable 3.14 lifetime earned run mark.
And that record is going to be improved upon in 1966. Hal went into spring training with an optimistic air of aggressiveness about him. During the last off-season, Hal worked for the Yankees in ticket sales promotion and he doesn't want to answer 'What's wrong?' questions next winter.
'I've got a wife and a baby now and I missed that World Series check,' Hal said with a smile. It isn't just the Series checks Reniff likes. He's been in four World Series games (briefly, to be sure) and has never been scored upon. Hal would like to try his hand at Series pitching again this fall."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee Organization, June 23, 1956.
Led Yankee pitchers in games (48) and games saved (18), 1963.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
FRITZ PETERSON
"Fritz Peterson is a 24-year-old left-handed pitcher with no previous exposure before New York baseball fans. But based on his performances in the minors last season and his work in spring training this year, it won't be long before this personable southpaw is well known to Yankee fans.
An outstanding semi-pro hockey wing, he gave up the ice sport when he signed with the Yankees. Fritz credits Cloyd Boyer, Yankee minor league pitching coach, with his rapid development last year. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, he now is working on his master's degree. He compiled a dazzling 11-1 record (1.50 ERA) at Greensboro before moving up to Columbus in 1965."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 27, 1963.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Fritz attends Northern Illinois U. in the off-season. He has a minor league record of 30-16. Fritz won 11, lost 1 with a 1.50 ERA for Greensboro in 1965. He gave up hockey to play professional baseball. Fritz won a spot on the roster with a fine Spring Training performance."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
DOOLEY WOMACK
"Dooley Womack has been in the Yankee organization since September 1958 and never advanced as high as Triple A ball until last summer. Now he's bidding for a spot on the Yankee varsity roster. This sudden turn of events for the likeable right-hander from Columbia, South Carolina resulted from an impressive league-leading earned run average of 2.17 at Toledo last summer while Dooley was posting a 10-4 won-lost record for the Mudhens. In his first three spring training outings, the 26-year-old pitcher hurled shutout ball and the Yankees took due notice.
Horace Guy 'Dooley' Womack is off to a fine start in the American League, too, and he hopes that his early successes continue whether he is pitching in long or short relief, or as a spot starter."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 23, 1958.
Led International League in ERA (2.17), 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Dooley has been a consistently good minor league pitcher since 1958. He led the International League in 1965 with a 2.17 ERA, winning 10 and losing 4 for Toledo. Dooley moves the ball around well and has good control."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
JAKE GIBBS
"Jake Gibbs is entering his sixth year in the Yankee organization, and despite several 'cups of coffee' with the parent club, 1966 marks the first year the former Ole Miss All-American quarterback is a full-fledged Yankee. Signed originally as a third baseman, it took Jake several years of minor league schooling to develop into a major league receiver. Now he appears to have made it and Yankee fans can look for solid catching and an effective punch at the plate from the 27-year-old Mississippian.
Recipient of the biggest bonus ever paid by the Yankees, Gibbs has had to battle to make it with the Bombers. En route to Yankee Stadium he suffered some four broken fingers while learning the 'tools of ignorance.' But during the last half of 1965 and especially spring training, Jake showed real major league talent. He's made it and he's glad. And so are the Yankees!"
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
All-American quarterback at Ole Miss, 1960.
All-American in baseball, 1960 and 1961.
Signed by Yankee organization, May 25, 1961- Yankees' highest paid bonus player.
Recalled from Toledo, June 15, 1965.
Assistant backfield coach at Ole Miss during off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
HORACE CLARKE
"Horace Clarke has to break into the Yankee infield eventually, and maybe sooner than that. The Virgin Islander, who started his career at shortstop, played mostly third for the Yankees last year when he hit .259 in segments of a year interrupted by some time spent with Toledo. He is a switch hitter who doesn't strike out much. His best position is second base, but the perennial presence there of Bobby Richardson has made breaking in a difficult chore. In the off-season, Clarke played winter ball with the Ponce club in Puerto Rico where famed Yankee reliever Luis Arroyo was his manager."
-Harold Rosenthal, 1966 Baseball Guidebook
"Horace Clarke is a highly capable switch-hitting second baseman. International League opponents were fully aware of the fact in 1964 and '65. But with Bobby Richardson the tenant second baseman, Clarke can best serve the Yankees by developing his infield versatility. This he has done effectively.
The Virgin Island infielder, who will be 26 in June, has a live bat and the tools to play any infield position satisfactorily. Signed originally at the age of 17, Horace moved up in the Yankee farm system, hitting well on the way. He batted .301 each of the last two AAA campaigns and .259 in 51 games with the Yankees last summer. Clarke led Yankee pinch-hitters with a nifty .346 mark (9 for 26). His first and only major league home run last season was a gaudy grand slam that helped defeat Cleveland 9-4 on September 21.
Clarke's versatility in the infield and as a pinch-hitter and runner plus his ability as a switch-hitter adds important depth to the Yanks."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, January 14, 1958.
Brought up from Toledo, May 11, 1965, optioned to Toledo, June 30, 1965, recalled from Toledo, September 1, 1965.
His first two major league home runs were grand slams- one in 1965 and one in 1966.
Yankees' top pinch hitter in 1965 (.346, 9-for-26).
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
DICK SCHOFIELD
"Another early-season trade that helped the Giants was the one that brought them Dick Schofield from Pittsburgh. Though he didn't have a good year at the plate (he batted .209), Dick was the league's best-fielding shortstop with a percentage of .981.
He's a 13-year veteran of the National League, having broken in with the Cardinals in 1953 as an early-day bonus boy. He had a second-string role with the Cards and later with the Pirates until 1963, when the trade-off of Dick Groat made him the regular shortstop.
His glove is good enough to carry a .240 average, which is about what he normally hits."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Dick Schofield is a newcomer to Yankee ranks and to the American League. A veteran of 13 seasons in the National League (with the Cardinals, Pirates and San Francisco Giants), the switch-hitting shortstop was purchased by Manager Ralph Houk for utility duty and infield protection. Dick can play second and third, as well as the outfield in an emergency although shortstop has been his regular position since he first signed a substantial bonus contract with St. Louis in 1953.
Schofield appeared as a Pirate opponent in the 1960 World Series against the Yankees and got one hit in three plate appearances. He is the fifth Yankee to switch-hit of the 15 non-pitchers on the roster. Dick feels sure he can contribute to the Yankee cause this year and in the future. He's only 31 despite his lengthy big league experience."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
"A veteran of 13 seasons with the Cardinals, Pirates and Giants, Dick hit .333 in 65 games for the 1960 Pirates and played in the 1960 World Series against the Yankees. He has played shortstop, second and third in the majors. Dick was purchased by the Yankees from the Giants on May 11, 1966."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
HECTOR LOPEZ
"Hector Lopez has been a valuable Yankee since joining the club from Kansas City in 1959. Now at 33, the native of Colon, Panama and resident of West Hempstead, Long Island finds new challenges for his role as No.1 outfield replacement. The competition comes from a youngster (switch-hitting 22-year-old Roy White) and a seasoned veteran (28-year-old Lou Clinton).
His lifetime .271 batting average for 11 major league seasons is third highest on the club (only Mickey Mantle at .306 and Elston Howard at .284 are ahead of him).
His seven RBIs in only four games and nine at-bats in the 1961 World Series vs. Cincinnati tied an RBI record for a five-game Series. Overall, in 15 World Series games, Hec has batted .286.
Lopez has played in more than 100 games in six of his seven Yankee seasons, proof of his value as an all-around handyman."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Hit three home runs in one game with Kansas City against Washington, June 26, 1958.
Acquired by New York Yankees along with pitcher Ralph Terry for pitchers Johnny Kucks and Tom Sturdivant and infielder Jerry Lumpe, May 26, 1959.
Shares World Series record, most RBIs, five-game Series (7), against Cincinnati, 1961.
Has third highest lifetime batting average (.271) among present Yankee players, surpassed only by Mickey Mantle (.306) and Elston Howard (.284).
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
LOU CLINTON
"Lou Clinton joined the Yankees this spring after appearing briefly with the Angels, Athletics and Indians last season. The hard-hitting outfielder was bidding for a spot as a spare outfielder and pinch-hitter on the Yankees and his strong spring performances won him an important shot with the club.
Now only 28, Clinton is best remembered for the final half of the 1962 season when his blazing bat registered a .326 average for the final 85 games of the campaign with Boston. A strong-armed outfielder with good power, he is the kind of player that adds considerably to a club's depth and the Yankees are hoping Lou Clinton will play an important role in the team's 1966 comeback as a pennant threat."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Had seven straight hits for Red Sox in doubleheader against Twins, July 4, 1962.
Was hottest hitter in American League during second half of 1962 season while with the Red Sox, hitting .326 in his last 85 games.
Acquired by Yankees from Cleveland in exchange for Doc Edwards, January 1966.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"A veteran of the Red Sox, Angels, Athletics and Indians, Lou hit .326 during the second half of the 1962 season with the Red Sox, including seven straight hits against the Twins on July 4. He was acquired from Cleveland for catcher Doc Edwards on January 14, 1966. Lou hit well this spring."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
ROY WHITE
"Roy White led the AA Southern League in runs, hits and triples, and was second in batting with a .300 average. He was a competent second baseman. All-in-all, the switch-hitting Californian was the Southern's Most Valuable Player in 1965.
He came up to the Yankees last September and played the outfield for the first time. In 14 games, Roy hit .333. This spring he was elected winner of the coveted Longines Watch ('World's Most Honored Watch') as the top rookie in camp.
Not a big fellow at 5'11" and 166 pounds, the bespectacled White packs surprising power and has excellent speed on the bases. One of Roy's biggest boosters is Joe DiMaggio, who admires his smooth, graceful swing from either side of the plate.
'A good bet to be a real .300 hitter,' complimented the Clipper."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee Organization, July 1, 1961.
Led Southern League in runs (103), hits (168) and triples (14), and was second in hitting (.300), 1965.
Named MVP in the Southern League, 1965.
Recalled from Columbus [Southern League], September 1, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Roy was MVP of the Southern League with Columbus in 1965, leading the league in runs (103), hits (168) and triples (14) while batting .300. He was impressive as a lead-off man for the Yankees in Spring Training. Roy has a quick bat and runs well. He played in 14 games for the Yankees in 1965."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
STEVE WHITAKER
"Steve hit 27 homers with 100 RBIs and a .303 batting average at Greensboro in 1964, and just completed his military tour."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankees, September 9, 1961.
Completed military obligations, February 14, 1966.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Steve hit 27 homers with 100 RBIs and a .303 batting average at Greensboro in 1964, and just completed his military tour."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankees, September 9, 1961.
Completed military obligations, February 14, 1966.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
FRED TALBOT
"Fred Talbot has the tendency to get down on himself too easily but the A's think he's only a year or two away from true stardom. Acquired from the White Sox before the start of last season, he posted a 10-12 record and struck out 116 batters in 198 innings.
He's a hard thrower with a good assortment of pitches, although his changeup could stand improvement. He also needs to pitch to spots more consistently. Early in the year, he relied too heavily on his fastball, and the hitters began to wait for it. His change and slider got him off the hook.
Fred spent six seasons in the minors and turned in an 18-6 mark at Lynchburg in 1963."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Fred Talbot has the tendency to get down on himself too easily but the A's think he's only a year or two away from true stardom. Acquired from the White Sox before the start of last season, he posted a 10-12 record and struck out 116 batters in 198 innings.
He's a hard thrower with a good assortment of pitches, although his changeup could stand improvement. He also needs to pitch to spots more consistently. Early in the year, he relied too heavily on his fastball, and the hitters began to wait for it. His change and slider got him off the hook.
Fred spent six seasons in the minors and turned in an 18-6 mark at Lynchburg in 1963."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
BILL STAFFORD
"Bill Stafford is the senior Yankee pitcher in point of service with the club after Whitey Ford. A late arrival in the 1960 season, Bill gave promise of immediate stardom when he posted a 3-1 record and was outstanding in six innings of World Series relief hurling that fall. Big Bill was a 14-game winner in each of his first two full seasons and big things were expected of him in 1963. But he slumped to 4-8 during that pennant campaign. Sore arms and other maladies have hampered Bill's development, but this spring the opportunity was there. With real competition for jobs on the Yankee pitching staff, Stafford was optioned to Toledo for the early part of the season.
His 2.68 ERA in his freshman season of 1961 was second lowest in the league. During the off-season, Bill attends Westchester Community College."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 28, 1957.
Second lowest ERA in American League his first full year in major leagues, 1961.
Attends Westchester Community College during off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JACK CULLEN
"Jack Cullen looked sharp this spring in a bid to win a Yankee job. Called up late last July after compiling an impressive 14-5 record with a second division Toledo club, Jack posted a 3-4 record with a fine 3.05 ERA. Included was a brilliant 3-hit shutout at Baltimore.
The 26-year-old redhead from Nutley, New Jersey was an effective member of the Yankee sales promotion staff this past winter. This spring, the smiling Irishman ran into formidable opposition from several youngsters, but figured his experience and control of the low pitch would help him win for the Yankees in 1966."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, September 5, 1958.
Purchased July 27, 1965 from Toledo, where he was International League's top percentage pitcher with 14-5 record.
Hurled 3-hit, 1-0 shutout at Baltimore, August 20, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JERRY WALKER
Purchased by Yankees from Portland (Cleveland organization), September 15, 1965.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
GIL DOWNS
"Gil Downs was a 1963 first year draftee from the White Sox chain after the Cohoes, New York right-hander had posted a 13-3 record with Sarasota in the Chicago organization. The tall hurler came to the special attention of Yankee management when he threw a no-hitter at the Yankees' Ft. Lauderdale farm club in 1963. As a result of his fine rookie year in the Florida State League, Gil won the George Trautman award ... and was grabbed by the Yankees.
After a 9-5 year at Greensboro, the Yanks decided Gil was suited to be a relief specialist and he starred in that capacity last summer at Columbus, Georgia. Now at Toledo, Gil hopes to come back as a Yankee relief specialist at the Stadium in the near future."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Hurled no-hitter against Fort Lauderdale, June 20, 1963.
Received George M. Trautman Award with Sarasota of Florida State League, 1963.
Selected by Yankees from Indianapolis (White Sox) in first-year player draft, November 1963.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
BOBBY MURCER
"Attending Oklahoma U. in the off-season, Bobby batted .365 with Johnson City and .322 with Greensboro in his first two years of pro ball. A fine spring training performance earned him a shot at the shortstop post following the retirement of Tony Kubek. Bobby hits with power and has a strong arm. He played in 11 games for the '65 Yanks."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
Signed by Yankees organization, June 2, 1964.
Third in the Carolina League in hitting (.322), 1965.
Recalled to the Yankees, September 1, 1965.
Attends University of Oklahoma in off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
GIL BLANCO
"12-7 at Ft. Lauderdale in 1964, Gil pitched 20 innings for the Yankees last season as a first-year rookie."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, September 1, 1963.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
FRANK FERNANDEZ
"Frank led Columbus in homers (21) in 1965. He hit three in one game against Lynchburg. Strong on defense, Frank started this season with the Yankees."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, September 1, 1961.
Hit three home runs in one game against Lynchburg [Southern League], 1965.
Led Columbus [GA] in home runs (21), 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
MIKE FERRARO
"The Florida State League MVP in 1964, Mike batted .317 to win the batting title."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 27, 1962.
Selected MVP and also won batting title in Florida State League while with Ft. Lauderdale, 1964.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
MIKE JUREWICZ
"Mike hurled a no-hitter for Columbus on July 1, 1965 against Charlotte, and was with the Yankees last September."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 12, 1963.
Hurled seven-inning no-hitter for Columbus [GA of Southern League] against Charlotte, July 1, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ARCHIE MOORE
"An All-American in baseball at Springfield (Mass) College in 1962 and '63, Archie has played in 40 games for New York the last two years."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
All-American in baseball at Springfield College, Springfield, Mass., 1962 and 1963.
Signed by Yankee organization, June 18, 1963.
Recalled from Toledo, September 1, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ROSS MOSCHITTO
"Ross led the Appalachian League with 20 homers in 1964 for Johnson City - and played in 96 games for the Yankees last season."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 4, 1964.
Led Appalachian League in runs scored (72) and home runs (20), 1964.
Attends Fresno City College during off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JOHN SCHROEPPEL
"John led the Florida State League in 1965 with a 13-1 record and with a 0.88 ERA for Ft. Lauderdale."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, September 7, 1964.
Top winning percentage in Florida State League, .929 (13-1), also leading in ERA (0.88), 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
CHET TRAIL
"Chet hit three grand slam homers at Greensboro in 1965, and is a smooth-fielding infielder."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, July 1, 1962.
[Replaced Jake Gibbs on World Series roster, 1964.]
Hit three grand slam home runs at Greensboro, 1965.
Attends Bowling Green State University in off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
BILL BURBACH
"The first choice of the Yankees in the free agent draft last June, Bill enters his second year in pro ball."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Selected [first] by Yankees in free agent draft, June 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
STAN BAHNSEN
"One of the Yankees' top draft choices in the free agent draft last June, Stan is a live, strong-armed right-hander."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Selected by Yankees in free agent draft, June 1965.
On the Columbus [GA, Southern League] roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
MIKE HEGAN
"The son of Yankee coach Jim Hegan, Mike can do the job now with his glove - the only question is his hitting."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, August 11, 1961.
Third leading hitter in Florida State League (.306) his first year of pro ball, 1962.
Seventh leading hitter (.323) in Pioneer League, 1963.
Led Pioneer League first basemen in fielding (.988), 1963.
Replaced Tony Kubek on World Series roster, 1964.
Attends Calvin Coolidge College, Boston, Mass. in off-season.
Son of Jim Hegan, former major league catcher and presently bullpen coach for the Yankees.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
BILL BETHEA
Purchased by Yankees on waivers from Minnesota, June 6, 1965.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JIM BRENNEMAN
Signed by Yankee organization, June 3, 1961.
Led International League in games started (29), 1964.
Recalled from Toledo, July 7, 1965, optioned to Toledo, July 27.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ARTURO LOPEZ
A product of the annual Yankee Stadium tryout camp.
Signed by Yankee organization, June 23, 1961.
Winner of James P. Dawson Award as outstanding Yankee rookie in spring training, 1965.
Optioned to Toledo, June 4, 1965.
Recalled from Toledo, September 1, 1965.
Currently on Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
DAVE MCDONALD
Signed by Yankee organization, August 11, 1962.
On Greensboro roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
WILLIAM MADDEN
Signed by Yankee organization, May 29, 1961.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JOHN MILLER
Signed by Yankee organization, June 20, 1962.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ELISEO RODRIGUEZ
Drafted by Yankees from Dallas (Kansas City organization), November 1964.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
PETE SHEEHY AND PETE PREVITE (Clubhouse Men)
"The two Petes have been handling the Yankee clubhouses for years ... Sheehy for 39 years and Previte for 24."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
BRUCE HENRY (Traveling Secretary)
"Traveling Secretary Bruce Henry handles travel, hotels, feeding and other arrangements."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
TOBY WRIGHT (Organist)
"Organist Toby Wright plays the Lowrey Organ. This powerful new addition to the Stadium proved mighty successful in 1965."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
"Bill Stafford is the senior Yankee pitcher in point of service with the club after Whitey Ford. A late arrival in the 1960 season, Bill gave promise of immediate stardom when he posted a 3-1 record and was outstanding in six innings of World Series relief hurling that fall. Big Bill was a 14-game winner in each of his first two full seasons and big things were expected of him in 1963. But he slumped to 4-8 during that pennant campaign. Sore arms and other maladies have hampered Bill's development, but this spring the opportunity was there. With real competition for jobs on the Yankee pitching staff, Stafford was optioned to Toledo for the early part of the season.
His 2.68 ERA in his freshman season of 1961 was second lowest in the league. During the off-season, Bill attends Westchester Community College."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 28, 1957.
Second lowest ERA in American League his first full year in major leagues, 1961.
Attends Westchester Community College during off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
BOB FRIEND
"With Bob Friend, it's like punching a time clock, that's how steady he is. In each of his 15 seasons with the Pirates, he had taken his regular turn on the mound, started his average of 35 games, and since 1955 pitched anywhere from to 200 to 314 innings a year. During that time, he also managed to win 191 games, while losing 218 for a club not noted for its support. In 1955, he became the first pitcher to top his league in earned run average while toiling for a last-place club - it was 2.84. Last season he was an 8-12 workman, hurling 222 innings. He came to the Yankees in an off-season trade for Pete Mikkelsen."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Bob Friend figures to give the Yankees much needed pitching depth. An American League rookie at the age of 35, Bob is a veteran of 15 fine seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates. A control pitcher and a workhorse, Friend has pitched in more than 30 games annually the last 15 seasons, heading the National League in games started three times. He has worked 200 or more innings in each of the last 11 years. Manager Ralph Houk plans to use Bob in starting assignments which is fine with the personable new right-hander.
Friendly Bob set himself with Yankee fans when he said after his trade to New York, 'It's only natural for a ball player to like being traded to the Yankees. All those years when I was growing up, the Yankees were winning more pennants than anyone else. They were the class team, and in my book they still are.' "
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
"First pitcher in major league history to lead his league in earned run average (2.84) while playing for a last-place club, 1955.
Attended Purdue University, receiving Bachelor of Science degree in economics, 1957.
Tied for National League lead in shutouts (5), 1962.
15th among ERA leaders in National League (3.24), 1965.
Acquired by Yankees from Pittsburgh Pirates, December 1965, in exchange for pitcher Pete Mikkelsen and cash."
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
RAY BARKER
"Ray Barker was an unknown name to most New York fans when he was obtained from the Indians on May 10, 1965. He had spent six training seasons with major league clubs but had never made it. Then the Yanks ran into trouble and needed left-handed utility strength. Buddy, as he is known, had just finished a great spring with the tribe, and had been highly regarded earlier by the Orioles.
Owner of a flock of offensive and defensive records in his 10 minor league seasons, Yankee fans soon came to know the value of this hard-hitting 30-year-old West Virginian. He played first, third, in the outfield, and was especially effective as a pinch-hitter in which role he garnered 11 hits in 38 at-bats for a .289 average with three homers. He hit pinch home runs in consecutive appearances to tie a big league record."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Baltimore Orioles organization as result of tryout camp, 1955.
Led Provincial League first basemen in putouts (1,116) and assists (82) with Thetford, 1955.
Led Sally League first basemen in putouts (1,226) and chances (1,288) and took part in three triple plays with Columbus, 1956
Led Sally League in hits (174), total bases (311), doubles (40), triples (14) and RBIs (97) and was second in batting (.309) with Knoxville, 1957.
Led Pacific Coast League in triples (14) and led first basemen in fielding (.992) with Vancouver, 1959.
Led Pacific Coast League in doubles (48) with Vancouver, 1960.
Traded to Cleveland Indians along with Harry Chiti and pitcher Art Kay for second baseman Johnny Temple in November 1961.
Acquired by Yankees from Cleveland in exchange for infielder Pedro Gonzales, May 10, 1965.
Tied major league record with two pinch-hit home runs in two consecutive appearances, 1965.
Batting average as pinch hitter for Yankees in 1965: .289 (11-for-38) with three home runs.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Ray Barker was an unknown name to most New York fans when he was obtained from the Indians on May 10, 1965. He had spent six training seasons with major league clubs but had never made it. Then the Yanks ran into trouble and needed left-handed utility strength. Buddy, as he is known, had just finished a great spring with the tribe, and had been highly regarded earlier by the Orioles.
Owner of a flock of offensive and defensive records in his 10 minor league seasons, Yankee fans soon came to know the value of this hard-hitting 30-year-old West Virginian. He played first, third, in the outfield, and was especially effective as a pinch-hitter in which role he garnered 11 hits in 38 at-bats for a .289 average with three homers. He hit pinch home runs in consecutive appearances to tie a big league record."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Baltimore Orioles organization as result of tryout camp, 1955.
Led Provincial League first basemen in putouts (1,116) and assists (82) with Thetford, 1955.
Led Sally League first basemen in putouts (1,226) and chances (1,288) and took part in three triple plays with Columbus, 1956
Led Sally League in hits (174), total bases (311), doubles (40), triples (14) and RBIs (97) and was second in batting (.309) with Knoxville, 1957.
Led Pacific Coast League in triples (14) and led first basemen in fielding (.992) with Vancouver, 1959.
Led Pacific Coast League in doubles (48) with Vancouver, 1960.
Traded to Cleveland Indians along with Harry Chiti and pitcher Art Kay for second baseman Johnny Temple in November 1961.
Acquired by Yankees from Cleveland in exchange for infielder Pedro Gonzales, May 10, 1965.
Tied major league record with two pinch-hit home runs in two consecutive appearances, 1965.
Batting average as pinch hitter for Yankees in 1965: .289 (11-for-38) with three home runs.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ROGER REPOZ
"Nobody has put the curse of heir apparent on Roger Repoz yet, but he could emerge as the next Yankee star. The 25-year-old, 6'3", 190-pound outfielder who was recalled from Toledo, where he batted .287 and hit 14 home runs in half a season, is built for power. In 79 games with the Yankees, he socked 12 homers but wound up with a .220 average. A left-hand batter, he still strikes out too often and he's fooled by southpaws. But he is a dead pull hitter to right, swings a fast bat and hits line-drive homers. These are the qualifications that could keep him around for a while."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Roger Repoz of the Yankees is a left-handed hitter from the Northwest who is part of what could prove the biggest bargain package put together for the Bombers in recent years. The front office went for a total of $3,000 to sign Mel Stottlemyre, Rich Beck and Repoz, all corralled by area scout Eddie Taylor. Johnny Johnson, the Yankee farm director, supplied this figure. Repoz got the $3,000, Johnson said, so Beck and Stottlemyre can't be classed as bad bargains, either.
Repoz, who was brought up a year earlier than intended because of the injuries to Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris, is rated a top prospect despite his modest .220 average in his first year. Repoz is a product of a careful change made by such hitting experts as Joe DiMaggio and Wally Moses. This duo worked on Roger's style a year ago in training camp, changing it from a wide spread-eagle stance to a closed one.
The Yankees needed lots of help last June when Maris was sidelined with a bad hand, and Repoz was called up from Toledo, where he had been leading the International League in homers and runs driven in. He whacked the first of a dozen homers in his first start, off Steve Barber. Ultimately he had trouble with left-handed pitching, but the big outfielder is still considered one of the top prospects to come along for the Yankees in years."
-Harold Rosenthal, 1966 Baseball Guidebook
"Roger Repoz has a good, quick bat, runs well on the bases and has all the tools to become an outstanding outfielder. These attributes got him to Yankee Stadium. After more than five years in the minors, the big, blond slugger has no intention of returning.
The reason his trip to the Bronx ballyard was delayed until last mid-season was a proclivity to strike out. Last spring at Toledo his manager, Frank Verdi and Yankee minor league batting instructor Wally Moses worked to adjust his batting stance. It paid off in an early opportunity with the Yankees.
In only 218 times at bat last summer, Roger hit a dozen homers. Almost half of his hits were for extra bases. In 1965 the big youngster was platooned most of the time, hitting primarily against right-handers. This spring he won an extra-inning exhibition with a line drive homer off a southpaw, and later hit three homers in one game.
Roger Repoz' maturity as an all-around slugger may be at hand."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 12, 1960.
Second in Sally League in home runs (20), 1963.
Recalled from Toledo, June 30, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"Nobody has put the curse of heir apparent on Roger Repoz yet, but he could emerge as the next Yankee star. The 25-year-old, 6'3", 190-pound outfielder who was recalled from Toledo, where he batted .287 and hit 14 home runs in half a season, is built for power. In 79 games with the Yankees, he socked 12 homers but wound up with a .220 average. A left-hand batter, he still strikes out too often and he's fooled by southpaws. But he is a dead pull hitter to right, swings a fast bat and hits line-drive homers. These are the qualifications that could keep him around for a while."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Roger Repoz of the Yankees is a left-handed hitter from the Northwest who is part of what could prove the biggest bargain package put together for the Bombers in recent years. The front office went for a total of $3,000 to sign Mel Stottlemyre, Rich Beck and Repoz, all corralled by area scout Eddie Taylor. Johnny Johnson, the Yankee farm director, supplied this figure. Repoz got the $3,000, Johnson said, so Beck and Stottlemyre can't be classed as bad bargains, either.
Repoz, who was brought up a year earlier than intended because of the injuries to Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris, is rated a top prospect despite his modest .220 average in his first year. Repoz is a product of a careful change made by such hitting experts as Joe DiMaggio and Wally Moses. This duo worked on Roger's style a year ago in training camp, changing it from a wide spread-eagle stance to a closed one.
The Yankees needed lots of help last June when Maris was sidelined with a bad hand, and Repoz was called up from Toledo, where he had been leading the International League in homers and runs driven in. He whacked the first of a dozen homers in his first start, off Steve Barber. Ultimately he had trouble with left-handed pitching, but the big outfielder is still considered one of the top prospects to come along for the Yankees in years."
-Harold Rosenthal, 1966 Baseball Guidebook
"Roger Repoz has a good, quick bat, runs well on the bases and has all the tools to become an outstanding outfielder. These attributes got him to Yankee Stadium. After more than five years in the minors, the big, blond slugger has no intention of returning.
The reason his trip to the Bronx ballyard was delayed until last mid-season was a proclivity to strike out. Last spring at Toledo his manager, Frank Verdi and Yankee minor league batting instructor Wally Moses worked to adjust his batting stance. It paid off in an early opportunity with the Yankees.
In only 218 times at bat last summer, Roger hit a dozen homers. Almost half of his hits were for extra bases. In 1965 the big youngster was platooned most of the time, hitting primarily against right-handers. This spring he won an extra-inning exhibition with a line drive homer off a southpaw, and later hit three homers in one game.
Roger Repoz' maturity as an all-around slugger may be at hand."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 12, 1960.
Second in Sally League in home runs (20), 1963.
Recalled from Toledo, June 30, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JACK CULLEN
"Jack Cullen looked sharp this spring in a bid to win a Yankee job. Called up late last July after compiling an impressive 14-5 record with a second division Toledo club, Jack posted a 3-4 record with a fine 3.05 ERA. Included was a brilliant 3-hit shutout at Baltimore.
The 26-year-old redhead from Nutley, New Jersey was an effective member of the Yankee sales promotion staff this past winter. This spring, the smiling Irishman ran into formidable opposition from several youngsters, but figured his experience and control of the low pitch would help him win for the Yankees in 1966."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, September 5, 1958.
Purchased July 27, 1965 from Toledo, where he was International League's top percentage pitcher with 14-5 record.
Hurled 3-hit, 1-0 shutout at Baltimore, August 20, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JERRY WALKER
Purchased by Yankees from Portland (Cleveland organization), September 15, 1965.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
GIL DOWNS
"Gil Downs was a 1963 first year draftee from the White Sox chain after the Cohoes, New York right-hander had posted a 13-3 record with Sarasota in the Chicago organization. The tall hurler came to the special attention of Yankee management when he threw a no-hitter at the Yankees' Ft. Lauderdale farm club in 1963. As a result of his fine rookie year in the Florida State League, Gil won the George Trautman award ... and was grabbed by the Yankees.
After a 9-5 year at Greensboro, the Yanks decided Gil was suited to be a relief specialist and he starred in that capacity last summer at Columbus, Georgia. Now at Toledo, Gil hopes to come back as a Yankee relief specialist at the Stadium in the near future."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Hurled no-hitter against Fort Lauderdale, June 20, 1963.
Received George M. Trautman Award with Sarasota of Florida State League, 1963.
Selected by Yankees from Indianapolis (White Sox) in first-year player draft, November 1963.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
BOBBY MURCER
"Attending Oklahoma U. in the off-season, Bobby batted .365 with Johnson City and .322 with Greensboro in his first two years of pro ball. A fine spring training performance earned him a shot at the shortstop post following the retirement of Tony Kubek. Bobby hits with power and has a strong arm. He played in 11 games for the '65 Yanks."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
Signed by Yankees organization, June 2, 1964.
Third in the Carolina League in hitting (.322), 1965.
Recalled to the Yankees, September 1, 1965.
Attends University of Oklahoma in off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
GIL BLANCO
"12-7 at Ft. Lauderdale in 1964, Gil pitched 20 innings for the Yankees last season as a first-year rookie."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, September 1, 1963.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
FRANK FERNANDEZ
"Frank led Columbus in homers (21) in 1965. He hit three in one game against Lynchburg. Strong on defense, Frank started this season with the Yankees."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, September 1, 1961.
Hit three home runs in one game against Lynchburg [Southern League], 1965.
Led Columbus [GA] in home runs (21), 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
MIKE FERRARO
"The Florida State League MVP in 1964, Mike batted .317 to win the batting title."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 27, 1962.
Selected MVP and also won batting title in Florida State League while with Ft. Lauderdale, 1964.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
MIKE JUREWICZ
"Mike hurled a no-hitter for Columbus on July 1, 1965 against Charlotte, and was with the Yankees last September."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 12, 1963.
Hurled seven-inning no-hitter for Columbus [GA of Southern League] against Charlotte, July 1, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ARCHIE MOORE
"An All-American in baseball at Springfield (Mass) College in 1962 and '63, Archie has played in 40 games for New York the last two years."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
All-American in baseball at Springfield College, Springfield, Mass., 1962 and 1963.
Signed by Yankee organization, June 18, 1963.
Recalled from Toledo, September 1, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ROSS MOSCHITTO
"Ross led the Appalachian League with 20 homers in 1964 for Johnson City - and played in 96 games for the Yankees last season."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, June 4, 1964.
Led Appalachian League in runs scored (72) and home runs (20), 1964.
Attends Fresno City College during off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JOHN SCHROEPPEL
"John led the Florida State League in 1965 with a 13-1 record and with a 0.88 ERA for Ft. Lauderdale."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, September 7, 1964.
Top winning percentage in Florida State League, .929 (13-1), also leading in ERA (0.88), 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
CHET TRAIL
"Chet hit three grand slam homers at Greensboro in 1965, and is a smooth-fielding infielder."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, July 1, 1962.
[Replaced Jake Gibbs on World Series roster, 1964.]
Hit three grand slam home runs at Greensboro, 1965.
Attends Bowling Green State University in off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
BILL BURBACH
"The first choice of the Yankees in the free agent draft last June, Bill enters his second year in pro ball."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Selected [first] by Yankees in free agent draft, June 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
STAN BAHNSEN
"One of the Yankees' top draft choices in the free agent draft last June, Stan is a live, strong-armed right-hander."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Selected by Yankees in free agent draft, June 1965.
On the Columbus [GA, Southern League] roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
MIKE HEGAN
"The son of Yankee coach Jim Hegan, Mike can do the job now with his glove - the only question is his hitting."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, August 11, 1961.
Third leading hitter in Florida State League (.306) his first year of pro ball, 1962.
Seventh leading hitter (.323) in Pioneer League, 1963.
Led Pioneer League first basemen in fielding (.988), 1963.
Replaced Tony Kubek on World Series roster, 1964.
Attends Calvin Coolidge College, Boston, Mass. in off-season.
Son of Jim Hegan, former major league catcher and presently bullpen coach for the Yankees.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
BILL BETHEA
Purchased by Yankees on waivers from Minnesota, June 6, 1965.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JIM BRENNEMAN
Signed by Yankee organization, June 3, 1961.
Led International League in games started (29), 1964.
Recalled from Toledo, July 7, 1965, optioned to Toledo, July 27.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ARTURO LOPEZ
A product of the annual Yankee Stadium tryout camp.
Signed by Yankee organization, June 23, 1961.
Winner of James P. Dawson Award as outstanding Yankee rookie in spring training, 1965.
Optioned to Toledo, June 4, 1965.
Recalled from Toledo, September 1, 1965.
Currently on Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
DAVE MCDONALD
Signed by Yankee organization, August 11, 1962.
On Greensboro roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
WILLIAM MADDEN
Signed by Yankee organization, May 29, 1961.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
JOHN MILLER
Signed by Yankee organization, June 20, 1962.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
ELISEO RODRIGUEZ
Drafted by Yankees from Dallas (Kansas City organization), November 1964.
On Toledo roster.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
PETE SHEEHY AND PETE PREVITE (Clubhouse Men)
"The two Petes have been handling the Yankee clubhouses for years ... Sheehy for 39 years and Previte for 24."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
BRUCE HENRY (Traveling Secretary)
"Traveling Secretary Bruce Henry handles travel, hotels, feeding and other arrangements."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
TOBY WRIGHT (Organist)
"Organist Toby Wright plays the Lowrey Organ. This powerful new addition to the Stadium proved mighty successful in 1965."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Monday, April 7, 2014
1966 Profile: Tom Tresh
"Steadiest of all the Yankees last year was Tom Tresh, who raised his batting average 33 points to .279 and slammed 26 homers. It was Tom's best year since his rookie season of 1962 when he batted .286. A switch-hitter, Tom is the son of former major league catcher Mike Tresh. They used to pitch him high and tight, but a veteran lefty in the league says he now hits the high ball well and tries to keep it down on him. Probably no other Yankee attempts to bunt his way on more during the course of the season than Tom does."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Tom Tresh probably would settle for a career of 1965s. Not as far as the Yankees' fortunes were concerned, but on personal accomplishment. Neither he nor the Yanks can complain about a season in which he led the club in hitting, home runs, hits, runs scored, doubles and RBIs.
An off-season student at Central Michigan University, Tom won the Longines Watch as the top Yankee rookie of 1962. He went right on to Rookie of the Year honors in the American League. He has averaged better than 150 games a year, more than 20 homers, over 150 hits and close to 80 RBIs a season. Converted to third base early this season, Tom appears as natural there as he was in left field.
Last year Tom also hit three homers in a game against the White Sox and won another game from Chicago with a spectacular game-saving catch in the tenth inning, and then hit one out in the last half of that same inning. That was Tom's top thrill to date ... but there are more coming."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Son of former major league catcher Mike Tresh.
Signed by Yankee organization, January 14, 1958.
Named Rookie of the Year in International League, 1961.
Winner of the James P. Dawson Award as the outstanding Yankee rookie in spring training, 1962.
Named American League Rookie of the Year, 1962.
Hit homers left-handed and right-handed in the same game, 1963.
Led Yankees in runs scored (91) and doubles (28), 1963.
Hit homers left-handed and right-handed in the same game, 1964.
Led Yankees in stolen bases- 13 steals in 13 attempts, 1964.
Hit three home runs in one game against White Sox, June 6, 1965 (second game).
Hit homers left-handed and right-handed in the same game, 1965.
Led Yankees in runs (94), hits (168), doubles (29), home runs (26), RBIs (74) and hitting (.279), 1965.
Attends Central Michigan University during off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Tom Tresh probably would settle for a career of 1965s. Not as far as the Yankees' fortunes were concerned, but on personal accomplishment. Neither he nor the Yanks can complain about a season in which he led the club in hitting, home runs, hits, runs scored, doubles and RBIs.
An off-season student at Central Michigan University, Tom won the Longines Watch as the top Yankee rookie of 1962. He went right on to Rookie of the Year honors in the American League. He has averaged better than 150 games a year, more than 20 homers, over 150 hits and close to 80 RBIs a season. Converted to third base early this season, Tom appears as natural there as he was in left field.
Last year Tom also hit three homers in a game against the White Sox and won another game from Chicago with a spectacular game-saving catch in the tenth inning, and then hit one out in the last half of that same inning. That was Tom's top thrill to date ... but there are more coming."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Son of former major league catcher Mike Tresh.
Signed by Yankee organization, January 14, 1958.
Named Rookie of the Year in International League, 1961.
Winner of the James P. Dawson Award as the outstanding Yankee rookie in spring training, 1962.
Named American League Rookie of the Year, 1962.
Hit homers left-handed and right-handed in the same game, 1963.
Led Yankees in runs scored (91) and doubles (28), 1963.
Hit homers left-handed and right-handed in the same game, 1964.
Led Yankees in stolen bases- 13 steals in 13 attempts, 1964.
Hit three home runs in one game against White Sox, June 6, 1965 (second game).
Hit homers left-handed and right-handed in the same game, 1965.
Led Yankees in runs (94), hits (168), doubles (29), home runs (26), RBIs (74) and hitting (.279), 1965.
Attends Central Michigan University during off-season.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
1966 Profile: Mickey Mantle
"Mickey Mantle, who is resigned to playing with injuries the way most people are to drinking their morning orange juice, limped to the poorest season of his career in 1965. A sore right shoulder, combined with his other perennial ailments, curtailed his productivity to 19 home runs and a .255 batting average in 122 games. Mickey has never fewer than 20 homers in a full season with the Yankees. A three-time winner of the MVP and the last man to win the Triple Crown, he has a lifetime batting average of .306 and he has hit 473 home runs. AL pitchers now throw him mostly fastballs because they say he doesn't get around on them as well as he once did."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Mickey Mantle! That's a name baseball fans will remember as long the game is played.
Who can forget the 19-year-old speedster out of Commerce, Oklahoma playing his first game at Yankee Stadium in 1951?
Who will ever forget the great star who won three American League Most Valuable Player Awards having what he termed 'the greatest year any player could ever hope to have' ... 1956, when he was baseball's last Triple Crown winner (leading the league in hitting with .353, homers - 52, RBIs - 130) and gaining the coveted Hickock Belt?
Who will ever forget the hero coming off the bench from six weeks of inactivity because of a broken left foot, amid the greatest ovation possible, and hitting a game-tying home run against Baltimore in 1963?
Mickey, these were among your greatest thrills ... and we know there will be more!"
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization on June 13, 1949.
One of ten to hit grand slam home run in World Series game, thereby tying record for most RBIs, one inning (4), October 4, 1953.
Hit three home runs in one game, May 13, 1955.
Led American League in home runs (37), 1955.
Led Majors in slugging percentage (.611), 1955.
Led American League in home runs (52), 1956.
Led Majors in slugging percentage (.705), 1956.
Last player to win Triple Crown, 1956.
Winner of Hickok Belt as Top Professional Athlete, 1956.
Most Valuable Player in American League, 1956.
Named Major League Player of the Year by The Sporting News, 1956.
Most Valuable Player in American League, 1957.
Led American League in home runs (42), 1958.
One of four to twice hit two home runs in one World Series game, October 2, 1958 and October 6, 1960.
Led American League in home runs (40), 1960.
Shares World Series record for most hits in one game (4), October 8, 1960.
Shares World Series record for most runs scored, seven-game World Series (8), 1960, 1964.
Led Majors in slugging percentage (.687), 1961.
Tied major league record by hitting four home runs in four consecutive at-bats, July 4-6, 1962.
Led Majors in slugging percentage (.605), 1962.
Most Valuable Player in American League, 1962.
Led Yankees in runs scored (92), home runs (35) and RBIs (111), 1964.
18 World Series home runs - a record.
Has hit homers righty and lefty in the same game 10 times, a major league record.
Ranks ninth on all-time home run list (473).
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Mickey Mantle! That's a name baseball fans will remember as long the game is played.
Who can forget the 19-year-old speedster out of Commerce, Oklahoma playing his first game at Yankee Stadium in 1951?
Who will ever forget the great star who won three American League Most Valuable Player Awards having what he termed 'the greatest year any player could ever hope to have' ... 1956, when he was baseball's last Triple Crown winner (leading the league in hitting with .353, homers - 52, RBIs - 130) and gaining the coveted Hickock Belt?
Who will ever forget the hero coming off the bench from six weeks of inactivity because of a broken left foot, amid the greatest ovation possible, and hitting a game-tying home run against Baltimore in 1963?
Mickey, these were among your greatest thrills ... and we know there will be more!"
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization on June 13, 1949.
One of ten to hit grand slam home run in World Series game, thereby tying record for most RBIs, one inning (4), October 4, 1953.
Hit three home runs in one game, May 13, 1955.
Led American League in home runs (37), 1955.
Led Majors in slugging percentage (.611), 1955.
Led American League in home runs (52), 1956.
Led Majors in slugging percentage (.705), 1956.
Last player to win Triple Crown, 1956.
Winner of Hickok Belt as Top Professional Athlete, 1956.
Most Valuable Player in American League, 1956.
Named Major League Player of the Year by The Sporting News, 1956.
Most Valuable Player in American League, 1957.
Led American League in home runs (42), 1958.
One of four to twice hit two home runs in one World Series game, October 2, 1958 and October 6, 1960.
Led American League in home runs (40), 1960.
Shares World Series record for most hits in one game (4), October 8, 1960.
Shares World Series record for most runs scored, seven-game World Series (8), 1960, 1964.
Led Majors in slugging percentage (.687), 1961.
Tied major league record by hitting four home runs in four consecutive at-bats, July 4-6, 1962.
Led Majors in slugging percentage (.605), 1962.
Most Valuable Player in American League, 1962.
Led Yankees in runs scored (92), home runs (35) and RBIs (111), 1964.
18 World Series home runs - a record.
Has hit homers righty and lefty in the same game 10 times, a major league record.
Ranks ninth on all-time home run list (473).
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
1966 Profile: Roger Maris
"An injury to his right hand last June practically reduced Roger Maris to the role of a spectator in 1965. He appeared in only 46 games, batting .239 and reaching the distance for only eight home runs. Some sources pegged the Yankee demise to Roger's idleness, saying he should have tried to play, but surgery at the end of the season revealed he had bone chips in the hand. Rog's disposition makes him a controversial figure, whether he's sitting on the bench or hitting a record 61 homers, as he did in 1961. But what is often overlooked with the two-time winner of the AL's Most Valuable Player Award is that he's a bona fide power hitter and one of the best defensive outfielders in the game."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Roger Maris thinks of 1965 as his lost year. He played in only 46 games and came to bat 155 times as first a hamstring muscle and then a bone chip in the base of the right hand idled him for most of the campaign.
But all that is behind the brilliant Yankee right-fielder. He has set himself some goals this year. No, not trying to break his own 61-homer record, but playing regularly and delivering key hits and vital catches that will contribute to comeback pennant victory for the Yankees. A good team player, Roger knows he is vital to the Yankee cause this season.
Twice an American League MVP, winner of the Hickock Belt as the top pro athlete of 1961, twice a league leader in RBIs, a powerful slugger and great defensive outfielder ... Roger Maris can lead the Yankee comeback by just having a good Maris year."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Traded to New York Yankees with first baseman Kent Hadley and shortstop Joe DeMaestri for pitcher Don Larsen, first baseman Marv Throneberry and outfielders Hank Bauer and Norm Siebern, December 1959.
Led American League in runs batted in (112), 1960.
Led American League in slugging percentage (.581), 1960.
Hit home run in first World Series at-bat, October 5, 1960.
American League MVP, 1960.
Hit 61 home runs in 1961- more than any player in one season.
Combined with Mickey Mantle to break Babe Ruth's and Lou Gehrig's 1927 home run [record for teammates] (107) with 115.
Set American League record for most home runs in six consecutive games (7), 1961.
Led American League in runs batted in (142), 1961.
Tied for American League lead in runs scored (132), 1961.
Winner of Hickok Belt as Top Professional Athlete of the Year, 1961.
American League MVP, 1961.
Associated Press Athlete of the Year, 1961.
Led Yankees in runs batted in (100), 1962.
Underwent surgery for removal of bone chips from the base of his right hand, September 27, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Roger Maris thinks of 1965 as his lost year. He played in only 46 games and came to bat 155 times as first a hamstring muscle and then a bone chip in the base of the right hand idled him for most of the campaign.
But all that is behind the brilliant Yankee right-fielder. He has set himself some goals this year. No, not trying to break his own 61-homer record, but playing regularly and delivering key hits and vital catches that will contribute to comeback pennant victory for the Yankees. A good team player, Roger knows he is vital to the Yankee cause this season.
Twice an American League MVP, winner of the Hickock Belt as the top pro athlete of 1961, twice a league leader in RBIs, a powerful slugger and great defensive outfielder ... Roger Maris can lead the Yankee comeback by just having a good Maris year."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Traded to New York Yankees with first baseman Kent Hadley and shortstop Joe DeMaestri for pitcher Don Larsen, first baseman Marv Throneberry and outfielders Hank Bauer and Norm Siebern, December 1959.
Led American League in runs batted in (112), 1960.
Led American League in slugging percentage (.581), 1960.
Hit home run in first World Series at-bat, October 5, 1960.
American League MVP, 1960.
Hit 61 home runs in 1961- more than any player in one season.
Combined with Mickey Mantle to break Babe Ruth's and Lou Gehrig's 1927 home run [record for teammates] (107) with 115.
Set American League record for most home runs in six consecutive games (7), 1961.
Led American League in runs batted in (142), 1961.
Tied for American League lead in runs scored (132), 1961.
Winner of Hickok Belt as Top Professional Athlete of the Year, 1961.
American League MVP, 1961.
Associated Press Athlete of the Year, 1961.
Led Yankees in runs batted in (100), 1962.
Underwent surgery for removal of bone chips from the base of his right hand, September 27, 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
Sunday, April 6, 2014
1966 Profile: Ruben Amaro
"Ruben Amaro was acquired in a trade for Phil Linz last winter to assure the Yankees qualified defensive shortstopping while young Bobby Murcer was gradually breaking in following Tony Kubek's enforced retirement. Ruben was doing his job when an early-season collision with Tom Tresh in Baltimore sent Amaro to the hospital for surgery on his right knee and a long spell of inactivity while he recuperates in his Philadelphia home.
A fine shortstop and all-around infielder, Ruben was a welcome addition to the Yankee team and his absence was a tough early season blow. A Rawlings Gold Glove Award winner in 1964, Amaro is the son of an outstanding Mexican outfielder."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Originally signed by St. Louis Cardinals, 1954.
Traded to Phillies for outfielder Chuck Essegian, December 1958.
Received Gold Glove as outstanding National League shortstop, 1964.
Acquired by Yankees from Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for Phil Linz, November 1965.
His father, Santos Amaro, was a star outfielder and manager in Cuba and Mexico for 26 years.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"One of the N.L.'s top fielding shortstops since 1960 with the Philadelphia Phillies, Ruben was acquired by the Yankees in exchange for infielder Phil Linz on November 12, 1965. He injured his right knee on April 16 and was placed on the disabled list following surgery."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
Phils' Castoff Hardly Fits Pin-Striped Legend But
ONLY AMARO CAN SAVE YANKS!
"Gene Mauch bumped into his old arch-enemy, Johnny Keane, recently. Naturally, as any guy who had bought a used car from a neighbor, Keane fell to discussing Ruben Amaro.
'He's got to be my shortstop,' the manager of the Yankees said. 'I'm going to give him the full shot.'
'Well, you saw enough of him when you were in the National League to know Ruben can really cut it with the glove,' said the Phillies' manager, who had swapped Amaro to the Yankees for Phil Linz. 'And you'll be surprised. He'll pick up some runs for you at the plate.'
'He'd better,' said Keane with a touch of grimness. 'Now that Kubek's gone, he's all I have at short. He'd better come to play 162 games.'
It is irony that Amaro should find job security in Yankee Stadium, inheritor of the Crosetti and Rizzuto kingdom, after all the years of shuttlecock with the Phils. A mild, limpid-eyed man with a .220 past, Ruben does not exactly fit the pin-stripe legend. When the No. 3 shortstop of a National League team becomes the man of the moment in the Bronx, time and reputations are out of whack.
Now comes the first harbinger of spring. The Audubon Society, eagerly throwing out popcorn for robins and cardinals, will be disappointed. The harbinger is a man named Jimmy the Greek, who operates a Las Vegas gambling hall and has given the odds on the 1966 baseball tournaments. The Greek has a word for the Yankees- miserable.
'Baltimore, 3-1,' says J. the Greek. 'Minnesota, Chicago and New York, 4-1. Kansas City, 1000-1.'
Gad, is nothing sacred? This country was built on certain pillars of truth- for one, that a man could make a sure living betting on Notre Dame, Joe Louis and the Yankees. Now Notre Dame has been known to lose, Joe Louis is a paunchy golfer and the Yankees are poor scuffling peons, hustling meanly in the pack. Good-bye, verities of childhood.
Funny thing, when Jimmy the Greek says 4-1, he has one foot in the past. It is like fearing that Ben Hogan or Sam Snead will win the U.S. Open. The Yankees, who read on paper like a casualty list from a 20-car crackup on the expressway, don't look that strong. It is a sentimental shock to see them disparaged, but if the Yankees win a pennant John Keane will need more miracles than exist in all the Ben Casey scripts.
Instead of Murderers' Row, they've got a row of stretchers. Except for Tom Tresh and Cletis Boyer, there isn't a starter who doesn't cause Keane some doubt. And Keane might flip a few coins figuring where they'll play. The only talent on the roster who is in a state of good ascension is Mel Stottlemyre. Good pitcher, this skinny gum-chomper, but hardly the basis for a new dynasty.
Roger Maris doesn't know whether he can swing a bat in anger after a hand operation. Ellie Howard is 36 and recovering from work on his arm. Whitey Ford is a question, as is the sore-armed Jim Bouton. Joe Pepitone's attitude has been as worrisome as his playmates' problems with bone and muscle. And Mickey Mantle, 34, a refugee from his sixth operation in 15 seasons, could see his ill-starred greatness at an end before spring training is over, a thick-muscled stallion finally caught in time's cul-de-sac.
Mantle played only 65 games last year, and if handed all the jobs the press has suggested for 1966, he'll be too bone-tired to stir. Playing first base and being a full-time pinch hitter are among the suggestions. 'Mickey will play the outfield- as far as he thinks he can go,' says Keane, who now knows how a New York power blackout feels.
Obviously, it is time for baseball to move to save the Yankees. They are whipped at the box office by the Mets, and another such disaster would set up nervous vibrations. It happened in Brooklyn and Boston and Philadelphia and the Polo Grounds and Milwaukee, didn't it? Would CBS be too noble to padlock Yankee Stadium and shift the whole, sad pageant to Seattle or New Orleans or Tokyo or maybe even Milwaukee?
There will have to be a Save the Yankees draft, with everybody chucking a few healthy athletes to preserve the hungry, lame sharecroppers in the Bronx. The first act of Spike Eckert, the baseball commissioner, should be to gather a CARE package for John Keane. He could start with the slogan, 'Don't laugh, boys, the poor devils are dying.'
Meanwhile, Ruben Amaro has a job. He could start on Opening Day with ringing oratory: 'I did not become shortstop to oversee the liquidation of the Yankee empire.'
Amaro spent years trying to beat Bobby Wine, and now he has to whip the whole American League. May be easier."
-Sandy Grady, Philadelphia Bulletin (Baseball Digest, April 1966)
A fine shortstop and all-around infielder, Ruben was a welcome addition to the Yankee team and his absence was a tough early season blow. A Rawlings Gold Glove Award winner in 1964, Amaro is the son of an outstanding Mexican outfielder."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Originally signed by St. Louis Cardinals, 1954.
Traded to Phillies for outfielder Chuck Essegian, December 1958.
Received Gold Glove as outstanding National League shortstop, 1964.
Acquired by Yankees from Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for Phil Linz, November 1965.
His father, Santos Amaro, was a star outfielder and manager in Cuba and Mexico for 26 years.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
"One of the N.L.'s top fielding shortstops since 1960 with the Philadelphia Phillies, Ruben was acquired by the Yankees in exchange for infielder Phil Linz on November 12, 1965. He injured his right knee on April 16 and was placed on the disabled list following surgery."
-1966 New York Yankees Scorecard and Official Program
Phils' Castoff Hardly Fits Pin-Striped Legend But
ONLY AMARO CAN SAVE YANKS!
"Gene Mauch bumped into his old arch-enemy, Johnny Keane, recently. Naturally, as any guy who had bought a used car from a neighbor, Keane fell to discussing Ruben Amaro.
'He's got to be my shortstop,' the manager of the Yankees said. 'I'm going to give him the full shot.'
'Well, you saw enough of him when you were in the National League to know Ruben can really cut it with the glove,' said the Phillies' manager, who had swapped Amaro to the Yankees for Phil Linz. 'And you'll be surprised. He'll pick up some runs for you at the plate.'
'He'd better,' said Keane with a touch of grimness. 'Now that Kubek's gone, he's all I have at short. He'd better come to play 162 games.'
It is irony that Amaro should find job security in Yankee Stadium, inheritor of the Crosetti and Rizzuto kingdom, after all the years of shuttlecock with the Phils. A mild, limpid-eyed man with a .220 past, Ruben does not exactly fit the pin-stripe legend. When the No. 3 shortstop of a National League team becomes the man of the moment in the Bronx, time and reputations are out of whack.
Now comes the first harbinger of spring. The Audubon Society, eagerly throwing out popcorn for robins and cardinals, will be disappointed. The harbinger is a man named Jimmy the Greek, who operates a Las Vegas gambling hall and has given the odds on the 1966 baseball tournaments. The Greek has a word for the Yankees- miserable.
'Baltimore, 3-1,' says J. the Greek. 'Minnesota, Chicago and New York, 4-1. Kansas City, 1000-1.'
Gad, is nothing sacred? This country was built on certain pillars of truth- for one, that a man could make a sure living betting on Notre Dame, Joe Louis and the Yankees. Now Notre Dame has been known to lose, Joe Louis is a paunchy golfer and the Yankees are poor scuffling peons, hustling meanly in the pack. Good-bye, verities of childhood.
Funny thing, when Jimmy the Greek says 4-1, he has one foot in the past. It is like fearing that Ben Hogan or Sam Snead will win the U.S. Open. The Yankees, who read on paper like a casualty list from a 20-car crackup on the expressway, don't look that strong. It is a sentimental shock to see them disparaged, but if the Yankees win a pennant John Keane will need more miracles than exist in all the Ben Casey scripts.
Instead of Murderers' Row, they've got a row of stretchers. Except for Tom Tresh and Cletis Boyer, there isn't a starter who doesn't cause Keane some doubt. And Keane might flip a few coins figuring where they'll play. The only talent on the roster who is in a state of good ascension is Mel Stottlemyre. Good pitcher, this skinny gum-chomper, but hardly the basis for a new dynasty.
Roger Maris doesn't know whether he can swing a bat in anger after a hand operation. Ellie Howard is 36 and recovering from work on his arm. Whitey Ford is a question, as is the sore-armed Jim Bouton. Joe Pepitone's attitude has been as worrisome as his playmates' problems with bone and muscle. And Mickey Mantle, 34, a refugee from his sixth operation in 15 seasons, could see his ill-starred greatness at an end before spring training is over, a thick-muscled stallion finally caught in time's cul-de-sac.
Mantle played only 65 games last year, and if handed all the jobs the press has suggested for 1966, he'll be too bone-tired to stir. Playing first base and being a full-time pinch hitter are among the suggestions. 'Mickey will play the outfield- as far as he thinks he can go,' says Keane, who now knows how a New York power blackout feels.
Obviously, it is time for baseball to move to save the Yankees. They are whipped at the box office by the Mets, and another such disaster would set up nervous vibrations. It happened in Brooklyn and Boston and Philadelphia and the Polo Grounds and Milwaukee, didn't it? Would CBS be too noble to padlock Yankee Stadium and shift the whole, sad pageant to Seattle or New Orleans or Tokyo or maybe even Milwaukee?
There will have to be a Save the Yankees draft, with everybody chucking a few healthy athletes to preserve the hungry, lame sharecroppers in the Bronx. The first act of Spike Eckert, the baseball commissioner, should be to gather a CARE package for John Keane. He could start with the slogan, 'Don't laugh, boys, the poor devils are dying.'
Meanwhile, Ruben Amaro has a job. He could start on Opening Day with ringing oratory: 'I did not become shortstop to oversee the liquidation of the Yankee empire.'
Amaro spent years trying to beat Bobby Wine, and now he has to whip the whole American League. May be easier."
-Sandy Grady, Philadelphia Bulletin (Baseball Digest, April 1966)
Saturday, April 5, 2014
1966 Profile: Joe Pepitone
"The warning signals have been clearly tapped out and now it's up to Joe Pepitone to acknowledge. The Yankees felt that his .247 batting average with 18 homers and 63 RBIs was too anemic for one as young, talented and healthy as Joe is. Only three seasons ago he hit .271 and belted 27 home runs. In 1964, when he made it 28 homers but dipped to a .251 mark, his antics were still forgivable. Joe knows he has to make a sharp reversal in 1966. At 25, he's learned to hit the curve ball a lot better than he did when he first came up; he always could murder a fastball. One veteran lefty in the league says Joe likes the ball on the inside half of the plate. Thus, he throws him curves low and away."
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Joe Pepitone attracts attention, whether he's hitting home runs, coming up with a fielding gem or walking down the street. The colorful Yankee first baseman (who is equally able in the outfield) creates excitement when he gets a haircut, just as he does when he gets a game-winning homer.
The 1965 season was not Peppy's best, just as it was below par for the Yankees as a team. But Joe was a mixed-up fellow last year and admits he didn't have his mind on the game all the time. This year, he avers, things are different. A happy bridegroom, he is determined to show Yankee fans that he can reach the stardom predicted for him several years ago.
Joe led the league's first sackers in fielding last year and won a Sporting News Gold Glove award as a league leader at first. A quick bat is another of Joe's attributes. He hopes to put them all together in 1966."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, April 13, 1958.
Tied major league record by hitting two home runs in one inning, against Kansas City, May 23, 1962.
Led Yankees in games played (157), total bases (260) and RBIs (89), 1963.
Knocked in winning run 16 times, more than any other Yankee, 1963.
One of 10 to hit a grand slam in the World Series, 8th inning, October 14, 1964.
Led American League first basemen in fielding (.997), 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
-Jack Zanger, Major League Baseball 1966
"Joe Pepitone attracts attention, whether he's hitting home runs, coming up with a fielding gem or walking down the street. The colorful Yankee first baseman (who is equally able in the outfield) creates excitement when he gets a haircut, just as he does when he gets a game-winning homer.
The 1965 season was not Peppy's best, just as it was below par for the Yankees as a team. But Joe was a mixed-up fellow last year and admits he didn't have his mind on the game all the time. This year, he avers, things are different. A happy bridegroom, he is determined to show Yankee fans that he can reach the stardom predicted for him several years ago.
Joe led the league's first sackers in fielding last year and won a Sporting News Gold Glove award as a league leader at first. A quick bat is another of Joe's attributes. He hopes to put them all together in 1966."
-The New York Yankees Official 1966 Yearbook
Signed by Yankee organization, April 13, 1958.
Tied major league record by hitting two home runs in one inning, against Kansas City, May 23, 1962.
Led Yankees in games played (157), total bases (260) and RBIs (89), 1963.
Knocked in winning run 16 times, more than any other Yankee, 1963.
One of 10 to hit a grand slam in the World Series, 8th inning, October 14, 1964.
Led American League first basemen in fielding (.997), 1965.
-1966 New York Yankees Press-TV-Radio Guide
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