Sorry guys, but I have to
when I read some of these comments regarding Mantle. First of all, how many of you saw him play during the years 1952 - 1964 ? ?
Us older dudes were fortunate to see him play. You wouldn't believe the excitement Mickey generated every time he came to bat. I have traded stories with my
Father-in-law, who saw Babe Ruth play and the air of excitement was very similar. Like in the days of Ruth, our expectations every time were that Mickey would
drive the baseball 500 - 600 feet out of the ballpark.
OK, since you guys love to throw Stats, around, or even worst, that neo-term called "WAR" when comparing players......how's about these numbers......
BA = .313 (1952 - 1964)
RBI's = 102/year (avg. based on 162 games/year)
HR's = 454 (1952 - 1964), which translates to a HR every 13.4 AB's
18 HR's in 11 - World Series (including a Grand Slam in the 1953 W.S.)
Trust me guys, Mickey was a better CLUTCH HITTER than most.
And, no one talks about his fielding ability. For half of each season, Mickey excellently covered the most expansive CF in baseball (Yankee Stadium) back then.
I will never, ever forget watching him run a "country mile" in the 5th game of the 1956 World Series to catch a 440-foot drive by Gil Hodges right in front of the
Monuments (which saved Don Larsen's Perfect game).
Type 2 ................................... Double Printed .......................................
Type 1
. .
And, I might add....any comparison of these ballplayer that doesn't include Ted Williams in the top ten is completely worthless. Forget his great statistics.
You had to see him play to really appreciate him......and, I was very fortunate watching Ted play from 1947 - 1960.
TED Z
T206 Reference
.