The Candidates for Monument Part, Part 4
by James Vlietstra
*** Ralph Houk, C/Mgr/GM
Started his career late due to his service in WW2, but returned to play during their postwar glory days. During his eight years as the backup catcher, he only played in 91 games. However, he transitioned to Coach, Manager, GM and back to Manager. He only played in two World Series even though he was on the team for six. He coached for another one. In his ten seasons as Manager, he won an additional one. In total, he spent 35 years with the Yankees.
Grade: 5
Catfish Hunter, P Member of the Hall-of-Fame. Spent 5 years as a Yankees. Two-time All-Star, Two-time World Series winner. Grade: 3
Tommy John, P (77years-old) Spent 8 years as a Yankees. 2 time All-Star. Top 25 in WAR, Wins, BB/9, IP, Starts , and Strikeouts. Should be in the Hall-of-Fame. Grade: 4
Michael Kay, Announcer, 59 Has been the Yankees announcer for 29 years. He handles all on field ceremonies. Grade: 8
Willie Keeler, OF Member of the Hall-of-Fame. Spent 6 years as a Highlander (Yankee). He was the Highlanders’ first true star. Grade: 3
Charlie Keller, OF Spent 10 years as a Yankees. Was a 5 time All-Star and 3 time World Series winner. Top 10 in OPB SLG, and OPS. Top 20 in WAR and HR. Grade: 7
Tony Kubek, SS/ Announcer (85-years-old) Spent his entire 9 year career as a Yankees. Won the Rookie of the Year Award. 4 time All-Star, 3 time World Series champ. Spent another 5 years as an announcer for the Yankees. Ford C Frick Award winner. Grade: 6
Don Larsen, P Spent 5 years as a Yankees. Won 2 World Series. Was the World Series MVP after pitching a Perfect Game. Was part of the trade for Roger Maris. Grade: 3
Tony Lazzeri, 2B Member of the Hall-of-Fame. Spent 12 years as a Yankees. Won 5 World Series. Only player in MLB to complete a natural cycle with a Grand Slam. Had an 11-RBI game. Ranks in the top 15 in WAR, Games, Runs, Hits, Total Bases, Doubles, Triples, RBI, Stolen Bases, and Singles. Grade: 10
Eddie Lopat, P Spent 9 years as a Yankees. Won 5 World Series. Top 15 in Wins and Winning Percentage Grade: 4
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