The New York Yankees are one of the most storied franchises in sports history. The team’s legacy is filled with legendary players who have altered baseball’s legacy in the US. Here’s a ranking of the 15 best Yankees of all time, highlighting their contributions to the team and the game.
Babe Ruth
Babe Ruth is not only the most outstanding player in Yankees history but arguably the most famous athlete of all time. With a career batting average of .349, 659 home runs, and 1,978 RBIs while in New York, Ruth transformed the game. His persona and talent helped the Yankees win four World Series titles.
Yogi Berra
The Yankees’ success would not have been possible without Yogi Berra, one of the best catchers in baseball history. With 10 World Series championships to his name, Berra was a three-time MVP and a 15-time All-Star. Yogi’s personality and quotes made him a cultural icon beyond the baseball diamond.
Mariano Rivera
With 652 career saves, Rivera was a cornerstone of the Yankees’ bullpen for 19 seasons. His postseason success, including five World Series titles and signature cut fastball, made him legendary. Many people understandably consider Mariano the GOAT pitcher in baseball history.
Lou Gehrig
Known as “The Iron Horse,” Lou Gehrig played 17 seasons with the Yankees and is celebrated for his consistency. With 493 home runs, a batting average of .340, and 1,995 RBIs, Gehrig was a two-time MVP. During the 1920s and 1930s, the man helped the Yankees clinch six World Series championships.
Andy Pettitte
Arguably one of the most successful pitchers in Yankees history, with 256 career wins and a postseason record of 19-10, we have Andy Pettitte. After 16 seasons with the Yankees, Pettitte won five World Series titles and was revered for his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Derek Jeter
“The Captain” played 20 seasons for the Yankees and is one of the most beloved players in franchise history. With 3,465 hits, Jeter was a key player during the Yankees’ late 1990s dynasty, winning five World Series titles. His leadership and clutch performances in the postseason solidified his legacy.
Whitey Ford
Aptly named “The Chairman of the Board,” Ford was a dominant left-handed pitcher for the Yankees. With a career record of 236-106 and a 2.75 ERA, Ford was a 10-time All-Star and won six World Series championships. His ability to perform in pivotal games made him one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
Bill Dickey
Bill Dickey was front and center in the Yankees’ success during the 1930s and 1940s. As a catcher, he was respected for his exceptional defensive skills and offensive prowess. He finished his career with a .313 batting average and 202 home runs. After eight World Series titles, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1954.
Joe DiMaggio
Often referred to as “Joltin’ Joe,” DiMaggio is remembered for his incredible skill and elegance. His 56-game hitting streak remains one of baseball’s most iconic records. DiMaggio won three MVP awards and helped the Yankees secure nine World Series titles.
Tony Lazzeri
In the 1920s and 1930s, Tony Lazzeri played a major role in the Yankees’ success. In addition to hitting .292 in his career and 178 home runs, Lazzeri helped the Yankees win multiple titles as part of the “Murderers’ Row” lineup.
Graig Nettles
Graig Nettles was a standout third baseman famous for his defensive skills and clutch hitting. He was a significant player in the Yankees’ positive run during the 70s, helping the team win two World Series titles. Nettles was a two-time All-Star and earned five Gold Glove Awards for his exceptional fielding.
Reggie Jackson
“Mr. October” got his interesting nickname for his impeccable postseason performances. The man hit 563 home runs and was pivotal in leading the Yankees to four World Series titles during the late 1970s. His charismatic personality and ability to deliver in big moments made him a fan favorite.
Thurman Munson
Another member of the ’70s Yankees team was Thurman Munson. He was a seven-time All-Star who won the 1970 AL Rookie of the Year award. Munson’s leadership and performance helped the Yankees secure two World Series championships during his tenure.
Phil Rizzuto
A five-time All-Star and 1950 AL MVP, Rizzuto was known for his exceptional fielding and leadership. He helped the Yankees win seven World Series titles during his career. “The Scooter” was a talented shortstop, and the Yankees were lucky to have him from 1941 to 1956.
Mickey Mantle
Mickey Mantle was a dynamic player famous for his power and speed. Over his 18-year career with the Yankees, Mantle hit 536 home runs and won three MVP awards. His expertise while performing in clutch situations helped the Yankees win seven World Series titles, making him a beloved figure in baseball history.
15 Most Iconic New York Yankees