RAMBLINGS OF AN 82 YEAR OLD YANKEE FAN: WHERE ARE WE GOING?

Interacting with our Bleeding Yankee Blue readers is something I love, especially if everyone is respectful in the conversation.  I want to introduce you to Len Ferrara who reached out to me and had a few things to say.  So, I asked that an article be written. Here you go, folks, enjoy. And thank you Len.

-Casey

Every once in a while, on Facebook, an ad pops up for people to show that they are the oldest Yankee fan. I have put my name in, but I am obviously not the oldest because every Wednesday I have breakfast with a bunch of guys, three of whom are Yankee fans and are older than I am. Thus, age is just a number.

Since I’m rambling, I thought I would share some Yankee Stadium experiences.

My first trip to Yankee Stadium happened when I was seven or eight. I can’t really remember how old I was. You have to understand that was 75 years ago. It was a bus trip from Saint Anne’s Church in Newark, New Jersey. Basically, most of my family went.

Since I was an insignificant seven-year-old, I got to sit directly behind one of the vertical girders in the original Yankee Stadium. I can't recall how little of the game I saw, looking back and forth on either side of the girder. Since the year would have been 1950 or 1951, let me list some of the people who would’ve been playing in that game: Berra, Mize, Coleman, Rizzuto, Brown, Woodling, DiMaggio, and Bauer.

Now let me jump forward to when I was in the eighth grade. I was a school crossing guard. The reward for eighth graders who got the crossing guard assignments was a trip to Yankee Stadium. We sat in the bleachers. It was a sunny day. We roasted.

I remember telling the chaperone, my history teacher, that we had “found our place in the sun” (you have to dig back into your history book to understand that reference). The highlight of the day was my favorite player, Andy Carey, who played third base. He hit a home run right in the direction where we were sitting, but it didn’t quite reach us, proving you can’t have everything in life.

Some 25 years later, in the “new” Yankee Stadium, I was able to grab a foul ball that came into the upper deck at the weirdest angle I could ever imagine. I never thought you would get a foul ball sitting in that section, but I did.

That brings us to the latest and current iteration of Yankee Stadium. The best thing about it, I find, is the steak sandwich.

Was I there for Mariano’s last game? Yes, I was.

Am I crying now as I write about it? Yes, I am.

We, as Yankee fans, are so spoiled by players of that caliber, and I guess it’s just that we demand excellence, which is so hard to come by at this point in time.

As far as the current team is concerned, I don’t think it’s difficult to point to the holes. I don’t think you can win a championship when you have three guys batting below .200, or close to it. I also don’t think a hitting coach can take a .210 hitter and make him into a .250 hitter, but I have been known to be wrong a few times in my life.

Does the bullpen need help? Absolutely.

What I don’t understand is why we seem to have excellent prospects in the minors who stay in the minors while we get to watch relievers give up runs every time they come in.

The Yankees are worth $7 billion, or something like that, and Hal Steinbrenner thinks salaries are out of control. He's in favor of a salary cap that may cause him to cut $70 million in payroll. How is that going to happen?

Did the fans vote to give Trent Grisham $20.2 million for the year?

Will he be on the team next year?

Why do the owners vote in favor of selling teams to guys or groups that have absurd amounts of money and then complain when those same people give out absurd contracts?

Why did the league allow the bankruptcy sale of the Dodgers, and now they have a ridiculous financial advantage? Excuse me, you didn't see that coming?

When Stanton is healthy, will Boone put Rice in at catcher so the lineup would include Goldy, Rice, and Giancarlo? Or are they worried that his legs are not in shape to catch? Has Boone noticed the increase in Rice's size over the last two years?

Will Volpe playing second help with his hitting or mental gaffes? Or do we have to settle for a shortstop with less range?

You know Hal does not want to pay Jazz.

What is it about Yankees prospects that causes them to flame out in New York and then succeed elsewhere?

I still have my 1959 and 1960 Yankees yearbooks. I have a scrapbook with a newspaper clipping from April 18, 1948. That should tell you who I am.

Do you think I bleed Yankee blue?

I love the Yankees, but sometimes they just tick me off.

I am an observational scientist by occupation, although you can tell by my age that I am retired.

These are a few of my observations and concerns.

--Len Ferrara

"WEAR & TEAR" KEEPS SOFT WELLS OUT OF LINEUP

Ladies and gentlemen, the 2025 New York Yankees: home of the soft, sanctuary of the pampered, and unofficial rehab facility for men with slightly discolored fingers.

Austin Wells—the catcher who hits like a pitcher and blocks balls like he’s allergic to leather—is out of the lineup again. The reason? Not a broken bone. Not a concussion. Not even a foul tip to the face mask. No, the 25-year-old Wells has been sidelined because of a circulation issue in one of the fingers on his non-throwing hand.

Let that sink in. A guy who’s already barely hanging onto a roster spot is now missing games because of some finger discomfort caused by, as Aaron Boone delicately put it, “the wear and tear of catching.”

Wear and tear? This kid just got here. What wear and tear? He’s caught a handful of big-league games, hits .214, and somehow already needs a day at the spa because one finger got tired. Is this what the Yankees have become? A daycare for fragile ballplayers who flinch at adversity?

Austin Wells is not a major league catcher. He’s a part-time breakfast burrito salesman with a lefty swing and a laundry list of excuses. He’s got a noodle bat, shaky defensive instincts, and now, apparently, the hand circulation of a 92-year-old retiree. And somehow, he’s being protected like a franchise cornerstone.

It’s ridiculous. And you know who’s enabling all of it? You guessed it—Aaron Boone, the world’s most enthusiastic babysitter. Boone’s doing what Boone does best: shielding his guys from accountability with a smile, a shrug, and a stack of empty words.

“We’ve gotten good feedback from the tests,” Boone said, talking about Wells like he’s some war hero recovering from battle instead of a slumping backstop with a sore finger. “It’s not something that bothers him from a performance standpoint,” he added.

Wait… what performance? Wells is slashing .214/.280/.323 with all the impact of a folding chair. His defensive metrics aren’t saving him either—pitchers don’t trust him, runners don’t fear him, and fans barely notice him until he’s out of the lineup for another mystery ailment. This guy couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat. But sure, let’s protect him like he’s the second coming of Johnny Bench.

And while we’re here, let’s talk about what being a Yankees catcher used to mean.

 
Remember Thurman Munson? Yeah, the guy who batted .292 for his career, drove in over 700 runs, won an MVP, and played with a constant grimace and a permanent limp—but never came out of the lineup unless someone dragged him out. The only thing that ever truly kept Munson off the field was a tragic plane crash. I'm not being mean, the truth is he was a true Warrior. It’s not hyperbole. That’s truth. That’s toughness.

 
Jorge Posada? Criticized for his defense, sure, but he put up monster offensive numbers (275 home runs, .273 batting average) and never ducked a challenge. The man was a grinder. He took foul tips to the throat, stayed in. Bruised ribs, played through it. Dislocated fingers? Tape it up. Back behind the plate the next day. No excuses. No pampering. No Boone standing over him like a concerned helicopter parent.

Yogi Berra? That man caught Don Larsen’s perfect game with an iron jaw and a baseball IQ unmatched in the sport. He didn’t need circulation tests—he needed the ball and a win. And if you asked him to sit out because of a sore finger, he’d probably punch you in the face and go catch both ends of a doubleheader just to make a point.

But now we’ve got Austin Wells. Taking two days off while J.C. Escarra—who might’ve been bagging groceries last week—suits up behind the plate. The Yankees aren’t just soft—they’re running a clubhouse that seems more concerned with emotional wellness than winning baseball games.

How did we get here? How did we go from one of the toughest positions on the diamond—the catcher, the field general, the warhorse—to a pampered safe space where guys sit for finger discomfort? I’ll tell you how. It starts with Aaron Boone and a front office that treats players like fragile Fabergé eggs instead of elite athletes. They’ve built a culture of coddling. A padded, mollycoddled, media-coached, finger-scanning comfort zone where accountability has been replaced with carefully-worded injury updates.

And the fans? We’re supposed to just nod along and accept it. “Trust the process.” “It’s precautionary.” “We don’t want to rush him back.” Give me a break. You don’t need to rush Austin Wells back because the dude barely contributes when healthy. Again, more truth.

This is a guy who’s lucky to have a job. Instead of seizing every opportunity like a guy fighting for his baseball life, he’s riding pine for something a catcher with any real toughness would laugh off. This isn’t 162 games of grueling baseball—this is tee-ball with a medical staff.

Aaron Boone should be embarrassed. Brian Cashman should be ashamed. And Austin Wells? He should be grateful if he’s still wearing pinstripes by September.

Because at the end of the day, we’re not asking for much. Just a catcher who acts like a damn catcher. Wells isn’t that guy.  And the Yankees—once proud, once feared—are now a parody of themselves.

Bring back the grit. Bring back the fire. Bring back the days when you had to drag a Yankee off the field—not pamper him off it.

BELLINGER IS WAY TOO EXCITED TO BE A YANKEE & I LOVE IT

Move over, utility players! Cody Bellinger is here to prove that being a team-first superstar is the ultimate flex. The Yankees’ shiny new slugger brought a mix of charm, humility, and pure versatility to his introductory press conference on Thursday. If you weren’t already excited, well, buckle up—because Cody isn’t just joining the squad; he’s ready to be the squad.

“...Wherever y’all need me, I’ll play,” Bellinger said with the kind of swagger that makes you believe he actually means it. “Left, center, right, first base—heck, if [Aaron] Judge wants to take a DH day, I’ll grab a glove and cover right field. It’s about winning, and I enjoy doing whatever helps my team.”

Team player? Understatement of the year. In 2024 with Chicago, Bellinger was a defensive chameleon, seamlessly transitioning between center and right field while sprinkling in a little first base action. Why? Because he could—and because he’s a guy who understands that winning is a team sport.

Bellinger credits former teammate Kiké Hernández for inspiring his Swiss Army Knife approach to the game. “Kiké’s probably the best I’ve ever seen at playing anywhere on the field and making it look easy,” Bellinger shared during a Zoom meeting. “He showed me it’s possible to be excellent at multiple positions. So, I worked at it, nailed the footwork, and now, wherever they need me, I’m ready to roll.”

And let’s not glaze over the family legacy—Cody’s Yankee connection runs deep. His dad, Clay Bellinger, was a proud member of the Yankees’ World Series-winning teams in 1999 and 2000. Cody and Clay now join an elite club as the fourth father-son duo to don pinstripes, standing shoulder to shoulder with names like Yogi and Dale Berra. Talk about carrying the torch!

But if you think Cody’s just here for the nostalgia, think again. He’s here to win. When he got the news, he’d be joining the Yankees, Bellinger called his dad, who was over-the-moon excited—even if he tried to play it cool.

So, whether it’s robbing home runs in center, snagging liners at first, or giving Judge a day off in right, Cody Bellinger is ready to do whatever it takes. Because in the Bronx, it’s not just about the player—it’s about the team. And Cody? Cody’s the guy.

Welcome to the Bronx, Cody. Let’s win some games.

REMEMBERING THAT ITALIAN YANKEE... JOE PEPITONE

Joe Pepitone wasn’t the greatest Yankee to ever don the pinstripes, but he may have been one of the most unforgettable. A Brooklyn-born local with a personality that could light up the Bronx, Pepitone brought style, swagger, and a whole lot of fun to the game. For fans of the Yankees in the 1960s, he wasn’t just a player; he was an experience.

Nicknamed “Pepi,” Pepitone burst onto the scene in 1962, a charismatic kid with a slick glove, a sweet left-handed swing, and a smile that could charm an umpire. He wasn’t just playing baseball; he was putting on a show. While the Yankees’ glory days were fading, Pepitone gave fans something to talk about, both on and off the field.

Pepitone’s talent wasn’t just flash — he could play. After a solid rookie campaign in 1962, he took over first base from Yankees mainstay Bill “Moose” Skowron in 1963. That season, Pepitone batted .271 with 27 home runs and 89 RBIs. He followed it up with a 100-RBI season in 1964, earning three straight All-Star nods from 1963 to 1965. His defense was even better: Pepitone snagged three Gold Gloves for his stellar play at first base.

But for all his talent, Joe wasn’t destined to be a cornerstone player. The Yankees of the ’60s were in decline, and Pepitone’s game couldn’t quite carry them back to their former glory. Still, he gave fans moments to remember — both dazzling and maddening.

Pepitone had his share of highlights on baseball’s biggest stage. In the 1964 World Series, he delivered a grand slam in Game 6 against the St. Louis Cardinals, a shining moment in an otherwise frustrating series. But just a year earlier, in the 1963 World Series, his infamous error in Game 4 cost the Yankees dearly. Losing a routine throw in the sunlit chaos of the Los Angeles crowd led to the Dodgers’ winning run — and the Yankees being swept.

That was Pepitone in a nutshell: flashes of brilliance mixed with moments of chaos.

If Joe Pepitone wasn’t dominating the headlines for his play, he was doing it for his antics. He was the first Yankee to bring a hair dryer into the clubhouse, a move that scandalized the old-school veterans and delighted everyone else. His perfectly poufy hair, often aided by a toupee, was the stuff of legend.

And then there were the nights out. Pepitone was a regular at New York’s hottest clubs, from the Copacabana to late-night haunts, where he basked in the spotlight. He wasn’t just playing baseball; he was living the life. Before Joe Namath became the poster boy for New York cool, Pepitone was laying the groundwork as the city’s lovable rogue.

Pepitone’s star burned brightly, but it didn’t last. By the late 1960s, as the Yankees tumbled into mediocrity, his own performance plateaued. He still had power in his bat — belting 31 home runs in 1966 — but his batting average hovered in the mid-.240s, and his off-field escapades began to wear thin. In 1969, after leaving the team without permission, Pepitone’s time in New York came to an end.

He went on to play for the Astros, Cubs, and Braves, with flashes of the old Pepi charm but little of the magic that made him a New York icon.

For all his flaws, Pepitone’s connection with the fans never wavered. He wasn’t Mickey Mantle or Yogi Berra; he was Joe from Brooklyn. He had the kind of charisma that made people root for him even when he stumbled. Whether he was cracking jokes in the locker room, making a diving stop at first base, or buying a round of drinks for strangers at a club, Pepitone was unapologetically himself.

Unfortunately, his post-baseball life was marred by troubles, including a stint in prison in the 1980s. But even then, Pepitone’s name carried a certain charm, a reminder of a time when baseball was more than a business — it was entertainment.

Joe Pepitone may never be mentioned in the same breath as Ruth or Gehrig, but his legacy in Yankees lore is secure. He was a player who made baseball fun, a Bronx showman who could field a Gold Glove grounder and tell a Gold Glove joke in the same inning.

For those who saw him play, Pepitone was more than stats or highlights. He was the guy who made the game feel alive, who reminded everyone watching that baseball isn’t just about wins and losses — it’s about moments. And Joe Pepitone gave us plenty of those.

Here’s to Pepi, the Italian Yankee with a heart as big as his hair. Baseball, and the Yankees, were better because of him.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

THE YANKEES CHANNEL 1996 & HOPE HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF

I'm thinking back to 1996 and suddenly feeling very old. The Yankees are down 2-0 in the World Series and it doesn't feel good at all. We've been here before though, and we ended up beating the Atlanta Braves. So, anything is possible. This could be the inspiration we need that changes everything. As Yogi Berra once said "it ain't over till it's over."

And we are now back in the Bronx, back on our own home turf. Back to that rich tradition of Yankee greats of the past. Back in 96 Joe Torre was in his first year of his managerial career (soon to be legacy) and his back was up against the wall. He had a much more demanding boss in George Steinbrenner back then who was expecting nothing short of miracles and victories to become World Series Champions. 

Here we are again in 2024. While it is clear that Aaron Boone is no Joe Torre (nor will he ever be), and Hal Steinbrenner doesn't have the passion to win like his dad did, the Yankees can still pull this off....but it's going to be really hard. It also makes tonight's game a MUST WIN. We ain't dead yet, but we are hobbling and stumbling. If the Yankees want this, they are going to have to play their butts off.

Playing their butts off also means getting Aaron Judge right again. He's getting plenty of pitches in the zone, he's just not hitting them. Judge looks lost at the plate. His mechanics are okay, they aren't wonky but his timing is. Judge is pressing at the plate and cracking under the pressure instead of just going with the flow and trusting his talent. It's hard to watch and he needs to pull himself out of this. 

If Baboonie were smart, he'd make some changes that might help get the lineup going instead of making some cutesy move that backfires like he did in game 1 that I'm still mad about. Baboonie needs to cut some of the pressure. Maybe swap Juan Soto and Judge in the batting order and see if that sparks something. And speaking of making swaps, don't get cute and bench Austin Wells for Jose Trevino. You need your best catcher playing right now, even though Wells is struggling offensively. Trevino is not an offensive upgrade but would be a defensive liability behind the plate. The Dodgers are already capitalizing on our weaknesses.... let's not add a catcher with lesser defense that can't throw into the mix.

This series comes down to Judge. We've got to get him going again. He left a lot of runners on base during the first two games that could have turned the game around. This ain't over yet....but it's get late early out there if Judge can't pull himself out of this slump and hit. 

I'm not giving up.... but I am frustrated. Let's hope some of that 1996 magic is still out there and makes an appearance tonight. We need it.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

YANKEES VS. DODGERS: A RICH HISTORY

As the New York Yankees look ahead to the 2024 World Series, they do so with the weight of history on their side—especially when it comes to their storied rivalry with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

For many of us,1978 and the 1981 World Series are most memorable. It is true that 1981 may have been a rare blemish in that history, but it only serves as a reminder of the Yankees’ resilience and determination to come back stronger. After all, this rivalry has largely belonged to the Bronx Bombers, and with that legacy, the Yankees are poised to reclaim their rightful place at the top in 2024.

Let’s rewind for a moment. In the 1978 World Series, the Dodgers jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, but the Yankees, true to their championship spirit, stormed back with four straight victories to win it all. Lou Piniella's clutch walk-off hit in Game 4 was a turning point, igniting the Yankees' charge. Then, in Game 5, captain Thurman Munson led the way with a heroic five-RBI performance, putting the Yankees in control. With their trademark resilience and determination, the Yankees proved once again why they are baseball’s most iconic and unstoppable team.

Then the rematch, 1981. The Yankees appeared to be on track for another triumph against the Dodgers, much like they had done countless times before. From Brooklyn to Los Angeles, the Yankees had consistently outplayed the Dodgers, with iconic victories in 1949, 1952, and 1953, leaving Dodgers fans heartbroken and frustrated. New York simply had the Dodgers’ number.

The 1981 Fall Classic started much the same way. The Yankees took the first two games at Yankee Stadium, and it seemed like another chapter of their dominance was about to unfold. But the series shifted to Dodger Stadium, and suddenly, the tide turned. Rookie sensation Fernando Valenzuela ignited the Dodgers with a Game 3 win, sparking a comeback that led to four straight victories and an unexpected championship for Los Angeles. Pedro Guerrero’s Game 6 heroics capped off the upset, with the Dodgers winning 9-2 and sending Yankees fans into shock.

It was a rare moment of disappointment for Yankees fans, but even that loss can be seen as fuel for the fire. George Steinbrenner, never one to accept defeat lightly, famously issued an apology to the people of New York after the series. It wasn’t just a statement—it was a promise that the Yankees would be back, stronger than ever. And if there’s one thing the Yankees have always done, they work to deliver on that promise.

History, after all, is a Yankee stronghold. While the Dodgers celebrated their 1981 victory, it’s important to remember that this rivalry leans heavily in New York’s favor. In 11 World Series matchups, the Yankees have won eight, including a 6-1 domination over the Brooklyn Dodgers before they packed their bags for Los Angeles. Even in moments of defeat, the Yankees have bounced back, often with a vengeance. The 1981 loss? Just a blip in the grand scheme of things.

 

Look back at the defining moments of this rivalry, and you’ll see why Yankees fans should feel confident heading into 2024. Don Larsen’s perfect game in 1956 is still the only one in World Series history, with Yogi Berra jumping into his arms in celebration. Johnny Kucks threw a three-hit shutout in Game 7 of that series, sending the Dodgers packing and cementing the Yankees' status as the team of destiny. The Bronx Bombers have been built on these legendary moments, and 2024 could very well be the next chapter.

Yes, the Yankees have faced adversity before, but that’s precisely what has shaped them into baseball’s most successful franchise. And if history is any indication, the Yankees have a knack for rising to the occasion when it matters most. As they gear up for another World Series run in 2024, it’s not just about the present—it’s about drawing strength from their past. The Dodgers may have gotten the better of them in 1981, but the Yankees have shown time and again that they know how to bounce back.

With a record of dominance over the Dodgers and a tradition of excellence in October, the Yankees are more than capable of writing a different ending in 2024. The ghosts of their past triumphs—Larsen, Berra, Mantle—are all there, ready to inspire this new generation of Yankees to reclaim the crown, Soto, Judge, Cole. 2024 could be the year they bring another World Series title back home.

So, as the Yankees march toward another Fall Classic, fans can take comfort in the fact that history—and the heart of a champion—are on their side. The 1981 World Series may have been a painful chapter, but it’s part of a larger narrative, one that has the Yankees standing tall as baseball’s most iconic and successful team. Come Friday, don’t be surprised if the Yankees are once again celebrating on top of the baseball world, proving that in the end, the Bronx always finds a way to win, especially this team.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

THAT TIME YOGI BERRA BROUGHT YOGI BEAR TO COURT

The character Yogi Bear was created by Hanna-Barbera and first appeared in 1958 as a supporting character in The Huckleberry Hound Show. Over time, Yogi Bear became so popular that he received his own show in 1961, The Yogi Bear Show.

The name "Yogi Bear" was widely believed to be a play on the name of the famous Yankees catcher, Yogi Berra. Yogi Berra, whose real name was Lawrence Peter Berra, was nicknamed "Yogi" because of his habit of sitting with his arms and legs crossed, resembling a yoga practitioner.

The connection between Yogi Bear and Yogi Berra was clear enough that in 1961, Yogi Berra filed a lawsuit against Hanna-Barbera, claiming that the cartoon bear's name was a blatant misappropriation of his name and likeness. Berra argued that the similarity in names caused confusion, leading people to believe he was somehow associated with the cartoon character.

However, the lawsuit did not progress far. Hanna-Barbera's defense was that Yogi Bear was an entirely original character and that any resemblance to Yogi Berra was purely coincidental. The company also contended that the bear’s name was chosen for its catchy, memorable quality, unrelated to the baseball player. Eventually, Berra dropped the lawsuit, likely due to the difficulty of proving that the character was a direct take on his identity, and the association between the two names remained in popular culture.  Despite the legal skirmish, Yogi Bear's popularity only grew, and he became an iconic figure in animation history. 

Yogi Berra, meanwhile, continued his illustrious baseball career, and over time, the initial controversy over the name faded into a quirky anecdote rather than a serious legal or cultural issue. He became one of the most beloved figures in baseball history, enjoyed immense popularity during his career and beyond. Known for his exceptional skills as a catcher and his unique, often humorous way of expressing himself, Berra became a cultural icon both on and off the field.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

THAT TIME MARIS SURPASSED RUTH

Roger Maris's journey to breaking Babe Ruth's single-season home run record in 1961 was a feat laden with immense pressure, stress, and public scrutiny. His achievement of hitting 61 home runs in a single season came with a significant personal toll, as well as a polarized reception from fans, the media, and even figures within Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Yankees organization.  The pressure of the 1961 season was immense for Maris. As he approached Babe Ruth's iconic record of 60 home runs set in 1927, the stress manifested physically and emotionally. 

According to various accounts, Maris began to exhibit signs of extreme stress, including smoking more heavily and experiencing hair loss. Bob Costas, a renowned sportscaster, highlighted Maris's struggles, noting, "Maris’s hair started falling out in clumps during the stress-filled season".

Maris faced a considerable backlash from fans who revered Babe Ruth. Many were not ready to see Ruth's record surpassed, particularly by Maris, who was perceived as an outsider compared to the more popular Mickey Mantle. The tension was palpable, with fans booing Maris at home games and even sending hate mail. The New York Times reported that fans were particularly harsh, with some sending him threatening letters.

The reaction from Babe Ruth's family was mixed. Julia Ruth Stevens, Babe Ruth's daughter, expressed a bittersweet sentiment. In an interview, she acknowledged the significance of Maris's achievement but also the emotional attachment to her father's record. She said, "It was Dad’s record, and we were proud of it. But Roger deserved to be recognized for his great season."

Figures within Major League Baseball and the Yankees organization had varied reactions to Maris's pursuit and eventual breaking of the record. Ford Frick, the MLB Commissioner at the time, controversially declared that Maris's record would be marked with an asterisk if he did not surpass Ruth's record within the first 154 games of the season, as Ruth's record was set during a 154-game season, while Maris's was during a 162-game season . This decision added to the pressure and controversy surrounding Maris's achievement.

Mickey Mantle was a notable source of support. Despite the media playing up a rivalry between the two, Mantle openly supported Maris. In a documented quote, Mantle said, "Roger was a great player and deserved everything he got. I was rooting for him to break the record" .

Other players to speak out were Yogi Berra, "What Roger did was unbelievable. He worked hard and handled the pressure better than anyone could have expected."

Whitey Ford, and Al Kaline also spoke out in support of Roger. Whitey said, "Roger's accomplishment is a testament to his dedication and skill. It was an honor to be his teammate during this historic season."  Kaline said, "Breaking Ruth’s record is a monumental achievement. Roger showed tremendous courage and perseverance."

After breaking the record on October 1, 1961, Maris's feelings were complex. In various interviews, he expressed relief more than elation. Maris once stated, "It would have been a hell of a lot more fun if I had not hit those 61 home runs. All it brought me was headaches" . This sentiment highlights the toll the pursuit took on him and reflects the broader challenges he faced.

Roger Maris's breaking of Babe Ruth's single-season home run record stands as a monumental achievement in baseball history. However, the journey to 61 home runs was fraught with stress, public scrutiny, and a mixed legacy. Despite the challenges, Maris's accomplishment remains a testament to his resilience and talent, marking an indelible chapter in the annals of Major League Baseball. And finally, as you all know, in 2022, Aaron Judge did the unthinkable, breaking Roger's record of 61 home runs with a new number... 62. 

Judge said of the feat: "Breaking Roger Maris's record is an incredible honor. I have immense respect for what he accomplished and the challenges he faced. To be mentioned alongside him is something I'll cherish forever."

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

THE BRAWL OF THE BRONX: YOGI VS. MOOSE

Sure, let's dive into one of the most infamous brawls in New York Yankees history that doesn’t involve Billy Martin and Reggie Jackson. Enter, the legendary tussle between Yogi Berra and Bill “Moose” Skowron. This event is legendary in the Yankees’ folklore for its sheer absurdity and the colorful characters involved.

The year was 1957, the Yankees were in the middle of another dominant season, and tensions were high. It was a hot July afternoon, and the team was stuck in a bit of a slump, which often makes professional athletes a bit testier than usual. The Yankees' locker room, typically a sanctuary of camaraderie and shared triumph, became a cauldron of brewing discontent.

Bill “Moose” Skowron, the team’s hulking first baseman known for his prodigious power at the plate and a frame that could double as a refrigerator, was at the center of this particular storm. Yogi Berra, the team’s beloved and slightly undersized catcher, famed for his paradoxical wisdom and malapropisms, was on the other end. What could these two possibly fight over, you ask? Well, dear reader, the trigger was something so quintessentially baseball, it almost sounds made up: a bat.

Let's set the scene. Yogi, ever the meticulous veteran, had a favorite bat. This wasn’t just any bat; this was a bat with a soul, a bat that had seen him through countless hits and even more of his trademark Yogi-isms. Moose, in the throes of a hitting slump, decided that perhaps borrowing Yogi’s bat might change his luck. Spoiler alert: it didn’t.

Yogi walked into the clubhouse to find Moose using his beloved bat, and like any reasonable person whose prized possession was being mishandled, he reacted. "Hey, Moose, you got your own bats, use ‘em!" Yogi barked.

Moose, not one to back down, especially not to someone he towered over by a good six inches, retorted, "Relax, Yogi. A bat's a bat!"

Yogi, embodying the spirit of David against his Goliath teammate, lunged at Moose. What followed was not the most technical of fights. There were no jabs or uppercuts, just a flurry of flailing limbs, and maybe a few well-placed baseballs for good measure. Teammates, initially stunned by the sight of the pint-sized catcher attempting to throttle the mammoth first baseman, quickly intervened. According to Mickey Mantle, who was reportedly doubled over with laughter while trying to separate the two, "It was like watching a bulldog take on a bear. You didn't know whether to laugh or call animal control."

The scuffle didn’t last long, thanks to the intervention of their teammates, but the locker room was abuzz with excitement and the incident quickly became legend. Moose, to his credit, was contrite. “I didn’t mean to swipe his bat. I just figured if it worked for Yogi, it might work for me. Turns out, I’m better off with my own sticks.”

Yogi, dusting himself off and adjusting his cap, simply said, “Nobody touches my bat without asking. That’s just how it is.”

The Yankees’ brass was less than amused by the fracas, but fans loved it. It added to the mystique of the team’s colorful clubhouse, a place filled with outsized personalities and no shortage of drama. If there’s a moral to this story, it’s that sometimes, even the most cohesive teams have their moments of madness. And in the Yankees’ case, those moments just happen to involve a Hall of Fame catcher trying to take down a man whose nickname was "Moose."

So next time you find yourself in a heated debate over something trivial, remember Yogi and Moose. Sometimes, you just need to step back, take a deep breath, and realize that, as Yogi might say, “It ain’t over till it’s over,” especially when it involves a bat and a lot of pride.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

THE COPACABANA INCIDENT

May 16, 1957. 

One of the most well-documented and reported stories about Mickey Mantle's antics off the field involves the infamous "Copacabana incident" of 1957. This event encapsulates the wild side of Mantle's life, involving drinking, rowdy behavior, and his notorious teammates. That night at the Copa was the Mick, Whitey Ford, Billy Martin, Hank Bauer, Yogi Berra and Johnny Kucks. Sammy Davis Jr. was the headliner.

The Yankees had just played a game against the Kansas City Athletics earlier that day. In celebration of Billy Martin's birthday, several Yankees players and their wives decided to go out for a night on the town, choosing the Copacabana, a popular nightclub, as their destination. The night took a wild turn as the players consumed copious amounts of alcohol.

As the evening progressed, the group found themselves embroiled in a brawl with some patrons from a nearby table. These patrons were reportedly members of a bowling team who had been heckling singer Sammy Davis Jr., who was performing that night. The Yankees players took offense to the derogatory remarks and a physical altercation ensued.

So, what happened? Some consequences. The incident garnered significant media attention and became a public relations nightmare for the Yankees. 

Yankees’ management, led by General Manager George Weiss, was furious. Billy Martin, who was considered a troublemaker, was traded to the Kansas City Athletics shortly after the incident. Other players faced fines, but the exact amounts and internal disciplinary actions were not always publicly disclosed. The New York newspapers had a field day with the story, which dominated the sports pages for weeks.

Mickey Mantle's image as a hard-drinking, fun-loving player was cemented. Despite the incident, Mantle continued to be a fan favorite and a highly productive player on the field. The incident highlighted the wild and rebellious culture within the Yankees clubhouse during that era, particularly among Mantle, Ford, Martin, and other players known for their nightlife escapades.

This story remains one of the most colorful and frequently recounted episodes in the history of Mickey Mantle and the New York Yankees, encapsulating the intersection of sports, celebrity, and scandal during the 1950s.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

YOGI BERRA'S QUOTES COME ALIVE AGAIN IN 2023

I've had Yogi Berra on the brain a lot lately, and I am not sure why. Maybe I am just reminiscing about happier Yankee times, or just about Yankee greats of the past. Yogi was certainly one of the Yankee greats and boy do I miss his Yogi-isms. They were the most beautiful butchery of the English language that even non-Yankee fans can appreciate.

Now that we are all reflecting upon just how bad this season was as we wait for the official word that our weakest links are returning next season, I take some of my favorite Yogi-isms and relate them to right now.

1. "It gets late early out here"
It is hard for me to pick a favorite Yogi-ism but if this isn't my favorite one, it's definitely top three. We all saw just how it got late early on the field this season. The Yankees had a terrible start, followed by a really short winning streak before crashing back down to terribleness again. It got late early for sure. The Yankees fell behind in the standings early on and quickly turned too late. As a result, I'd say you can turn that Yogi-ism into "it got UGLY early out there" because it really did. It was really hard to watch, too.

2. "It's deja vu all over again"
I think we all agree this season was definitely deja vu when it comes to the Yankees offense. This team just cannot hit. They can't play small ball, they can't move the runners over, brings guys home when in scoring position or make productive outs. All this team does is swing for the fences, and sometimes it pays off.....but boy do they strike out a lot. It's the same story, just a different year with two different hitting coaches.

3. "The future ain't what it used to be"
Do you remember the Yankees 2016 fire sale? It was hard to think about at the time, but it really helped replenish the farm. Then 2017 came along and Aaron Judge won the Home Run Derby, we had all these young, exciting up and coming ballplayers that were heading into their prime. We got sooooo close to the World Series (damn you cheating ASStros) and the future was bright! Now here we are heading into 2024 with Judge injured and wondering how we don't WASTE opportunities when he is in his prime. Not to mention how to keep Gerrit Cole committed to us after next season instead of opting out of his contract. The future aint what it used to be....and the Yankees prime window of opportunity is closing.

4. "I never blame myself when I'm not hitting. I just blame the bat and if it keeps up, I change bats. After all, if I know it isn't my fault that I'm not hitting, how can I get mad at myself?"
This is a good one. If the Yankees changed bats for every time they did not hit there would be a wood shortage on the planet. The Yankees probably do blame their bats, because they certainly do not take accountability for their lack of hitting. Sure, the Yankees fired Dillon Lawson but that isn't the answer. The Yankees need to learn how to hit and stop making excuses....and stop hiring people with a philosophy of "hit strikes hard." 

5. "In baseball, you don't know nothing"
See Dillon Lawson above, but furthermore, that is more like "the Yankees don't know nothing" because they keep making the same decisions over and over again expecting different results also known as, insanity. They also keep loser Aaron Boone and Brian Cashman around instead of cutting their dead weight. Don't worry though, Hal Steinbrenner is taking a "deep dive" by hiring an independent company to compare and contrast how the Yankees run their organization compared to other teams. So really, the Yankees don't know nothing, and they need to spend lots of money to hear that (and then they still won't believe it).

6. "When you come to a fork in the road, take it"
If only someone could make the Yankees realize that they have come to many forks in the road and didn't take it. They are at a HUGE fork in the road and it's time to take it....and by take it I mean clean house and start over.

7. "It aint over till it's over"
I wish this was true for Boone and Cashman's tenure with the Yankees....but that aint over. It should be, just like the Yankees season is. If only Yogi could make that true.

A walk down memory lane .... may Yogi rest in peace. He may not be walking amongst us anymore, but his words still ring true especially for the Yankees. 

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj