Saturday Night Five: Men in Pinstripes

I've recently started to rethink my position on the Men in Pinstripes.  I've hated the New York Yankees since I was a wee little boy, but now I realize that I have nothing against the Old School Yankees:  The Sultan of Swat, The Yankee Clipper, and The Commerce Comet.  They were well before my time and are key historical figures in baseball that I actually admire.

It's actually the New Era Yankees that I can't stand.  The Free Agency Era Yankees.  The franchise that uses my favorite team as their farm system and attempts to buy a World Series Championship year in and year out.  

Now I'm not saying that free agency doesn't have a place in sports.  It's always entertaining to see where the latest big name will land.  However, when one or two franchises build "dream teams" filled with all-stars... seriously, how much fun is that?

But enough ranting... let's get to the point of this post.  Tonight, I want to make up for thirty plus years of misplaced hatred and take a few minutes to honor my favorite New York Yankees.  

Are your ready?  Let's start with #5 and countdown to #1.

#5 Roger Maris

Before I watched HBO's 61*, Maris was just another Yankee I didn't like.  But after seeing what he went through and how the fans treated him... my opinion changed.

#4 Ron Guidry

His video game numbers during the 1978 season still stands out from my childhood... but the main reason he's high on this list is because he's a fellow lefty.

#3 Lou Gehrig

I have admired The Iron Horse since the first time I watched The Pride of the Yankees starring Gary Cooper.  He is remembered for being humble, kind, and hardworking... all adjectives I hopefully will be remembered for myself.

#2 Derek Jeter

It's hard not to respect any ballplayer who has been with the same team his entire 18 year career.  Throw in his accomplishments and the only reason he's not #1 on this list is because he's part of The Free Agency Era Yankees.

#1 Thurman Munson

Thurman Munson and collecting cardboard are forever tied together in my childhood memories.  His 1970 Topps rookie card was one of the first cards I ever wanted... and it only took me 30 years to acquire it.

What about you?

Who are your favorite Men in Pinstripes?

Happy Saturday and sayonara!