Yogi Berra - an American Baseball Story
The Most Consistent Catcher of Baseball's Golden Era
Such was the saga of Lawrence Peter (Yogi) Berra. A funny looking man from a St. Louis neighborhood known as "Dago Hills" Yogi as his friends nicknamed him was one of the most prolific and dependable catchers to ever play the game of baseball. Still kicking, Yogi is a member of The Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and attends the Yankees spring training every year. Yogi is 85 years old
Fourteen Glorious Seasons
In fourteen Major League seasons Yogi Berra was the best year in and year out. From 1948 to 1961, the 5'8" catcher averaged 23 homers and 94 RBI's, as well as led the American League catchers in most games caught and total chances. From 1957 to 1959 Yogi went a stretch of 148 games and 950 chances without an error. That is very remarkable for a catcher.
It wouldn't surprise any old timer that he played on 14 pennant winners and 10 world-championship clubs during his illustrious career, setting records for World Series games, hits and doubles.
Always Leave Them Laughing
Yogi was probably one of the most popular baseball players during his time and after. Today he is a spokesperson for AFLAC insurance and can be seen on some of their most popular commercials. His one of a kind personality endears him to the public and players alike.
Yogi also was a good coach. All his years of handling pitchers and learning their personalities and focusing on their strengths and weaknesses was sure genius on his part. It also translated well to coaching and won him a World Series for the Mets in 1973 and the Yankees in 1964. Yogi was the second manager to win the pennant in both leagues.
Yogi is known for his head scratching statements but he always got his point across with a laugh, which for players is a great way to improve and live life.
Yogi Berra was one of my favorite players as a boy. Reason was he always played to win in the game and in life.
Sources:
The Love of Baseball, Publications International LTD
1903-2004 100 Years of the World Series, Eric Enders, Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.
World Book Encyclopedia, Book B Copyright 1990
Published by Kirby Rooks
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