Sunday, January 8, 2017

1986 New York Yankees Broadcasters

"Phil Rizzuto and Bill White, with an announcer to be named, will call it on WPIX-TV (Channel 11). The voices were unconfirmed for SportsChannel cable and a radio network originating with WABC (770)."

-The Complete Handbook of Baseball, 1986 Edition

"Yankee baseball will be broadcast for the 48th consecutive year in 1986. WPIX-TV, 11 Alive, will be the New York City television station for the 36th straight season. WABC, Talkradio 77 AM, is leading the Yankees radio network as the flagship station for sixth straight season. A network covering 12 states also participates in the Yankees' TV and radio coverage.
SportsChannel is the Yankees' pay cable television carrier for the eighth consecutive season in the tri-state area. And Yankee games will be broadcast in Latin America by Vene International Productions for the 17th straight season."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide

PHIL RIZZUTO (WPIX)
"The one and only Scooter, the greatest shortstop in Yankees history, is celebrating his 30th anniversary of giving listeners the inside word on the Bronx Bombers. Phil's outgoing personality and lively banter have spiced up Yankee broadcasts since he started the job after ending his brilliant playing career.
He never rests while at work, and that dedication shows during broadcasts. Simply put, the Scooter on the air means fun for the fans."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"Phil Rizzuto, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, is in his 30th season as a Yankee broadcaster. The 1950 American League MVP moved to the booth immediately following his playing career (1941-56) in 1957."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide


MEL ALLEN (SportsChannel)
"A living legend among broadcasters, Mel Allen returns for his eighth season with SportsChannel, the Yankees pay cable television carrier. The Voice of the Yankees from 1946 through 1964, Mel has long been recognized as one of the nation's top broadcasters. He is a member of Baseball's Hall of Fame."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"Mel Allen, the Voice of the Yankees, is back for his eighth season on cable. Mel, who broadcast Yankee games from 1939 to 1964, was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1978."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide


BILL WHITE (WPIX)
"Having shown his smarts on the playing field for 13 major league seasons, Bill White has continued to do the same in the Yankees broadcast booth for the past 15 campaigns.
Bill's insight and frankness make it a treat for Yankee fans watching the game on television. Having Bill White in the booth guarantees a well-reported game."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"Bill White, former star first baseman with the Giants, Cardinals and Phillies (1956-69), who played in six All-Star Games and won seven Gold Gloves, is now in his 16th season with the Yankees."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide


MICKEY MANTLE (SportsChannel)
"The one and only Mick is in his second year as a SportsChannel color commentator. Baseball fans everywhere know what Mickey Mantle has meant to baseball and today he remains a big part of the sport on a different level. In the booth, Mickey has found another area of baseball to excel in."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"Mel Allen is joined on SportsChannel for a second year by Yankee great Mickey Mantle. Mickey, who won three MVP awards and hit 536 homers, was inducted in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide


JIM KAAT (WPIX)
"Pitching a record 25 seasons in the majors more than qualifies Jim Kaat as a knowledgeable broadcaster. The former Yankee ranks 23rd all-time in victories and his career spanned four decades.
Since his retirement in 1983, Jim has been working a mike for several sports broadcasting networks. He's glad to be with the Yankees again."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"Joining Phil and Bill in the WPIX booth this year is Jim Kaat. Kaat, former big leaguer who pitched in four decades, 1959-83, has recent broadcast experience with NBC, ESPN and Home Team Sports in Washington, DC."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide


BOBBY MURCER (WABC)
"After spending a year in the Yankees' front office, former Yankee hero Bobby Murcer returns to broadcasting.
Bobby spent one and a half seasons behind the mike following his retirement in 1983, so he's no rookie when it comes to telling Yankee fans what's happening. Few people know the Yankee organization better."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"Bobby Murcer, former Yankee star outfielder, returns to the booth following a year in the Yankee front office as Assistant Vice-President."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide


SPENCER ROSS (WABC)
"A familiar voice with New York sports fans, Spencer is in his second year as a member of the Yankee broadcast team. The Brooklyn native has covered games for virtually every team in New York. He'll join Bobby Murcer in the radio booth."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"Veteran Spencer Ross moves to the radio booth this season after joining the Yankee broadcast team in the TV booth last year."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide


BILLY MARTIN (WPIX)
"One of the most popular players or managers to ever wear the pinstripes, Billy now has turned his expertise to television. He will lend his insight to television by analyzing upcoming action and reviewing key moments at the end of the game. He's as colorful as they come."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"Billy Martin, former Yankee player and manager, will also work some of the WPIX telecasts, handling pre and postgame chores."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide


JOHN GORDON (WABC)
"In four years in the Yankee radio booth, John Gordon has gained the respect and admiration of many listeners. John is a well informed professional who tells fans everything they need to know and then some. Off the air, John is always digging up new information on the Yankees to pass on to listeners.
This year John will host the Yankees Magazine Pre-Game Show and the Yankees Post-Game Show."

-The New York Yankees Official 1986 Yearbook

"John Gordon, the Yankees Director of Television and Radio Relations, is in his fifth year with the Yankees and will handle the pre and postgame shows for WABC."

-1986 New York Yankees Information Guide

Monday, December 12, 2016

1987 New York Yankees Broadcasters

"Phil Rizzuto and Bill White are the heart of the team that will call it for WPIX-TV (Channel 11). Mickey Mantle and Mel Allen work the games for SportsChannel cable, and voices were unconfirmed for radio coverage on a network originating with WABC (770)."

-The Complete Handbook of Baseball, 1987 Edition

"Yankees baseball will be broadcast for the 49th consecutive year in 1987. WPIX-TV (channel 11) will be the New York City television station for the 37th straight season, while WABC Radio (770 AM) is leading the Yankees radio network as the flagship station for seventh straight year. A network covering 12 states also participates in the Yankees TV and radio coverage.
SportsChannel is the Yankees' pay-cable television outlet for the ninth consecutive year in the tri-state area. Yankees games will also be broadcast in Latin America by Vene International Productions for the 18th straight season. These broadcast outlets insure that Yankee baseball will be one of the most widely available sports events in the country."

-1987 New York Yankees Information Guide

PHIL RIZZUTO (WPIX)
"The one and only Scooter, the greatest shortstop in Yankees history, is in his 31st year of giving listeners the inside word on the Bronx Bombers. Phil's outgoing personality and lively banter have spiced up Yankee broadcasts since he started the job after ending his brilliant playing career.
He never rests while at work, and that dedication shows during broadcasts. Simply put, the Scooter on the air means fun for the fans."

-The New York Yankees Official 1987 Yearbook

"Phil Rizzuto, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, is in his 31st season as a Yankee broadcaster. The 1950 American League MVP moved to the booth immediately following his playing career (1941-56) in 1957, giving him 47 consecutive seasons affiliated with the Yankees."

-1987 New York Yankees Information Guide


BILL WHITE (WPIX)
"Having shown his smarts on the playing field for 13 major league seasons, Bill White has continued to do the same in the Yankees broadcast booth for the past 16 campaigns.
Bill's insight and frankness make it a treat for Yankees fans watching the game on television. Having Bill White in the booth guarantees a well-reported game."

-The New York Yankees Official 1987 Yearbook

"Bill White, former star first baseman with the Giants, Cardinals and Phillies (1956-69), who also played in six All-Star Games and won seven Gold Gloves, is now in his 17th season with the Yankees."

-1987 New York Yankees Information Guide


TOMMY HUTTON (WABC)
"In his first season as a Yankees radio broadcaster is Tommy Hutton. After spending 17 years in pro ball, the former infielder turned to broadcasting in 1981 as a regular on the Montreal Expos broadcasts.
Tommy now brings his upbeat manner and knowledge of the game to the attention of Yankee fans. He will join another newcomer, Hank Greenwald, in the WABC Radio booth."

-The New York Yankees Official 1987 Yearbook

"Tommy Hutton joins the Yankees broadcast team after spending the previous five seasons as a broadcaster for the Montreal Expos. Before beginning his announcing career, he spent 12 seasons as a first baseman for the Dodgers, Phillies, Blue Jays and Expos."

-1987 New York Yankees Information Guide


HANK GREENWALD (WABC)
"Hank Greenwald may be new to the Yankees radio audience, but he is by no means new to his profession. In his 30 years of broadcasting, Hank has covered football, basketball and baseball and is most noted for his seven years of service as the voice of the San Francisco Giants.
His love of the game and endless enthusiasm will surely endear him to Yankees listeners as he teams with Tommy Hutton on WABC Radio."

-The New York Yankees Official 1987 Yearbook

"Hank Greenwald begins his first season as a Yankee radio announcer, but is no stranger to baseball broadcasts. He spent the previous eight years as the television and radio voice of the San Francisco Giants and has handled the play-by-play of such varied events as Golden State Warriors and University of San Francisco basketball and Syracuse University football."

-1987 New York Yankees Information Guide


BILLY MARTIN (WPIX)
"Billy Martin will again be joining Phil Rizzuto and Bill White on the Yankees telecasts. For Martin, one of the most popular players or managers in Yankees history, this is his second year as a broadcaster for the Bronx Bombers.
In his tenure as a Yankees manager, Martin posted a 516-358 record (.590) and won two American League pennants and one World Series (1977)."

-The New York Yankees Official 1987 Yearbook

"Billy Martin, one of the most popular players or managers in Yankee history, begins his second year as a television commentator on Yankee broadcasts. In his tenure as Yankee manager, Martin posted a 516-358 record (.590) and won two American League pennants and a World Championship."

-1987 New York Yankees Information Guide

Sunday, November 20, 2016

1988 New York Yankees Broadcasters

"Yankee baseball will be broadcast for the 50th consecutive season in 1988. WPIX-TV (Channel 11) will be the New York City television outlet for the 38th straight season, while WABC Radio (770 AM) is leading the Yankee radio network as the flagship station for the eighth straight year. A network covering 12 states also participates in the Yankees' TV and radio coverage.
SportsChannel is the Yankee pay cable television outlet for the tenth straight year in the tri-state area, and Yankee games will also be broadcast in Spanish to Latin America for the 19th straight season. These comprehensive broadcast outlets insure that Yankee baseball will be one of the most widely available sports events in the country.
The popular duo of Phil Rizzuto and Bill White will handle the club's telecasts on WPIX, Hank Greenwald and Tommy Hutton will pair on the club's broadcasts on WABC, while Ken Harrelson will handle the microphone duties on the club's cablecasts on SportsChannel, and will be joined by former Yankee great Mickey Mantle on selected cablecasts."

-1988 New York Yankees Information Guide


PHIL RIZZUTO (WPIX)
"The one and only Scooter, the greatest shortstop in Yankees history, is in his 32nd year of giving viewers the inside word on the Bronx Bombers. Phil's outgoing personality and lively banter have spiced up Yankees broadcasts since he started the job after ending his brilliant career on the playing field.
He never rests while at work and that dedication shows during broadcasts. Simply put, the Scooter on the air means fun for the fans."

-The New York Yankees Official 1988 Yearbook

"Phil Rizzuto, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, is in his 32nd season as a Yankee broadcaster. The 1950 American League MVP moved into the broadcast booth immediately following his playing career (1941-56) in 1957, giving him 48 consecutive seasons affiliated with the Yankees."

-1988 New York Yankees Information Guide


BILL WHITE (WPIX)
"Having shown his smarts on the playing field for 13 major league seasons, Bill White has continued to do the same in the Yankees broadcast booth for the past 17 campaigns.
Bill's insight and frankness make it a treat for Yankees fans watching the game on television. Having Bill White in the booth guarantees a well-reported game."

-The New York Yankees Official 1988 Yearbook

"Bill White, former star first baseman with the Giants, Cardinals and Phillies (1956-69), who also played in six All-Star Games and won seven Gold Gloves, is now in his 18th season broadcasting Yankee baseball."

-1988 New York Yankees Information Guide


TOMMY HUTTON (WABC)
"This is Tommy Hutton's second season as a Yankees radio broadcaster. After spending 17 years in pro ball, the former infielder turned to broadcasting in 1981 as a regular on the Montreal Expos broadcasts.
Tommy now brings his upbeat manner and knowledge of the game to the attention of Yankee fans. He works alongside Hank Greenwald in the WABC Radio booth."

-The New York Yankees Official 1988 Yearbook

"Tommy Hutton is in his second season on the Yankee broadcast team after spending the previous five seasons as a broadcaster for the Montreal Expos. Before beginning his announcing career, he spent 12 seasons as a first baseman for the Dodgers, Phillies, Blue Jays and Expos."

-1988 New York Yankees Information Guide


HANK GREENWALD (WABC)
"Hank Greenwald starts his second campaign as a Yankees radio voice, but he's no stranger to baseball broadcasts. In his 31 years of broadcasting, Hank has covered football, basketball and baseball and is most noted for his seven years of service as the voice of the San Francisco Giants.
His love of the game and endless enthusiasm has already endeared him to Yankees listeners over WABC Radio."

-The New York Yankees Official 1988 Yearbook

"Hank Greenwald starts his second season as a Yankee radio announcer, but is no stranger to baseball broadcasts. He spent the previous eight years as the television and radio voice of the San Francisco Giants and has handled the play-by-play of such varied events as Golden State Warriors and University of San Francisco basketball and Syracuse University football."

-1988 New York Yankees Information Guide


BOBBY MURCER (SPORTSCHANNEL)
"After spending 1987 as a Yankees batting instructor, Bobby Murcer returns to his favorite duty as a Yankees broadcaster on SportsChannel, the club's cable affiliate.
Bobby left his playing days behind in 1983 to begin a career in broadcasting. He was in the booth for the second half of that season and again in 1986.
Few people know the Yankees organization better than Bobby Murcer."

-The New York Yankees Official 1988 Yearbook


KEN HARRELSON (SPORTSCHANNEL)
"One of the most colorful personalities in baseball, the Hawk is in his second season as a SportsChannel broadcaster.
Before he came to New York, Harrelson was Executive Vice-President of Baseball Operations for the White Sox. He also spent 10 years broadcasting White Sox and Red Sox games following a nine-year major league career.
The Hawk really knows how to make a baseball game an entertaining experience."

-The New York Yankees Official 1988 Yearbook

"Ken 'Hawk' Harrelson, one of the most colorful personalities in baseball returns for his second season after serving as Executive Vice-President, Baseball Operations for the Chicago White Sox. He also spent 10 years broadcasting White Sox and Red Sox games following a nine-year major league career that was highlighted by helping the Red Sox to the American League pennant in 1967."

-1988 New York Yankees Information Guide


MICKEY MANTLE (SPORTSCHANNEL)
"Mickey Mantle, one of the greatest and most popular players in major league history, is back for his third season on selected SportsChannel cablecasts. Elected to the Hall of Fame in 1974, he holds countless Yankee team records and is a three-time MVP selection.
Mickey's presence in the booth is a very welcome sight for the Yankee faithful."

-The New York Yankees Official 1988 Yearbook

"Mickey Mantle, one of the greatest and most popular players in major league history, returns for his third season on selected SportsChannel cablecasts. Elected to the Hall of Fame in 1974, he holds countless Yankee team records and is a three-time Most Valuable Player selection, including 1956 when he won the Triple Crown."

-1988 New York Yankee Information Guide

Saturday, October 8, 2016

1989 New York Yankees Broadcasters

"Yankee baseball will be broadcast for the 51st consecutive season in 1989. WPIX-TV (Channel 11) will be the New York City television outlet for the 39th straight season, while WABC Radio (770 AM) is leading the Yankee radio network as the flagship station for the ninth straight year. A network covering 12 states also participates in the Yankees' TV and radio coverage.
The Madison Square Garden Network is beginning its first season as the Yankees' cable television outlet in the tri-state area, and Yankee games will also be broadcast in Spanish to Latin America for the 20th straight season. These comprehensive broadcast outlets ensure that Yankee baseball will be one of the most widely available sports events in the country."

-1989 New York Yankees Information Guide

"Yankees baseball will be broadcast for the 51st consecutive year in 1989. WPIX-TV will be the New York City television station for the 39th straight season. WABC TALKRADIO, 77 on your AM dial, is leading the Yankees radio network for the ninth straight year. MSG Network will be the Yankees' cable television carrier."

-1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


PHIL RIZZUTO (WPIX)
"The one and only Scooter, the greatest shortstop in Yankees history, is in his 33rd year of giving viewers the inside word on the Bronx Bombers. Phil's outgoing personality and lively banter have spiced up Yankees broadcasts since he started the job after ending his brilliant career on the playing field.
He never rests while at work and that dedication shows during broadcasts. Simply put, the Scooter on the air means fun for the fans."

-The New York Yankees Official 1989 Yearbook

"Rizzuto, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, is in his 33rd season as a Yankee broadcaster. The 1950 American League MVP moved into the broadcast booth immediately following his playing career (1941-56) in 1957, giving him 49 consecutive seasons affiliated with the Yankees."

-1989 New York Yankees Information Guide

"Phil Rizzuto, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, is now in his 33rd season as a Yankees broadcaster. The 1950 American League MVP moved to the broadcast booth immediately following his playing career (1941-56) in 1957."

-1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program

PHILIP FRANCIS RIZZUTO: A YANKEE FOR LIFE
"A lot of water has flowed under a lot of bridges since a skinny, frightened 19-year-old kid from Brooklyn reported to the Basset, Virginia Class-D club, the lowest rung on the Yankee ladder, to start his career in professional baseball. Today, that same individual looks back on an outstanding career as a major league shortstop, followed by an equally scintillating career as a sports announcer.
Unless you have been living in a cave the past half-century, you know, of course, that we are speaking of Philip Francis Rizzuto, better known in sporting circles as 'The Scooter.' Ironically, the nickname is not only descriptive of his playing field movement but of all other phases of his life. From an airplane to the baggage area to a cab, or from the broadcast booth to his car and home.
There has been an argument raging for years about his exclusion from the Hall of Fame, which speaks volumes for the credentials he presents. He was voted the all-time Yankee shortstop in a landslide, which takes care of where Mr. Rizzuto rates among his peers.
The kid from Brooklyn traveled a long way from the day he reported to Ebbets Field for a tryout and was told by Casey Stengel, then Dodger manager, 'Get lost kid, get a shoeshine box, you're too small to be a ballplayer.' Casey wasn't wrong often, but this time he missed by a mile.
Ironically, Rizzuto wound up his playing career under Stengel and earned his plaudits as a key ingredient of several of Casey's championship teams. 'He was the best shortstop I ever had,' said Stengel.
'The only mid-century players who could have starred in my era,' said Ty Cobb, who some rate as the greatest ever, 'are Phil Rizzuto and Stan Musial.' Too bad Ty was never on the Veterans Committee for the Hall of Fame.
Rizzuto was voted Minor League Player of the Year in 1940, then 10 years later was voted Major League Player of the Year. That was the year, of course, when Phil hit .324, the highest batting average ever compiled by a Yankee shortstop. He won the MVP and the Hickok Belt, which denotes the Professional Athlete of the Year. A year later he won the Babe Ruth Award as the MVP of the World Series.
'I can't pick out any one event or day as the highlight of my career,' says Phil. 'Perhaps the biggest thrill came when they retired my number 10 and put a plaque in Monument Park. Not even getting into the Hall of Fame could top that. It was also a thrill to get the Pride of the Yankees Award.'
There is no disputing the biggest disappointment of his career- in fact, it has to be the nadir of his career. That would have been Old Timers Day in 1956 when he was given his release to clear roster space for Enos Slaughter.
'George Weiss and Casey called me in,' Phil recalls. 'They told me they thought the club needed another good left-handed bat for the stretch run. They I asked who I thought was expendable. I mentioned several names which were turned down and then it hit me, they were trying to tell me it was me. It was an awful feeling.'
Rizzuto disappeared for several days after that but never put the rap on the Yankees or the officials. When it came time to slice up the World Series pie, the Yankee players cut a full slice for their little leader. A year later, he surfaced as Mel Allen's broadcast partner, and Phil's second successful career was underway.
Fans of Rizzuto, the shortstop, have many memories of his acrobatics on the field. His flying leaps to avoid sliding runners on double plays, his own slides into a base to swipe a hassock, and his flashing tags to erase a would-be base stealer. And the most vivid memory of all, the squeeze bunt which sent home Joe DiMaggio with the winning run in a game that actually meant the pennant.
Rizzuto played on nine Yankee pennant winners and eight World Champions during his brilliant career, plus he was on five All-Star teams. In Yankee annals, he is among the giants: ninth all-time in games; 10th in at-bats; 13th in runs; 10th in hits; 15th in doubles; 16th in triples and ninth in stolen bases.
How did it happen that Phil moved from the field to the broadcast booth? Was it an accident? Did it come out of the blue? Had he ever thought about turning to the airwaves?
'Are you kidding?' Phil says. 'Holy cow, I was thinking about it for the last five years as a player. When Casey took me out of a game I would go up to the booth and Mel would let me do a half-inning. At home, I would turn off the sound on TV and broadcast the game myself.'
Rizzuto's career as a broadcaster has been as successful as his playing days. He is moving into his 33rd year in that capacity and 53rd as part of the Yankee organization.
There's only one Rizzuto, but he's a winner!"

-Jim Ogle, 1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


BOBBY MURCER (MSG)
"Few people know the Yankees organization better than Bobby Murcer, who is broadcasting on MSG Network, the club's cable affiliate.
After finishing his playing career in 1983, Murcer started working in the broadcast booth and has found much success. Yankee fans are excited to see this familiar face talking Yankee baseball."

-The New York Yankees Official 1989 Yearbook

"Always a Yankee favorite, Bobby Murcer joins MSG Network in its first year covering the Yankees. Bobby has worked as a Yankee hitting instructor. He formerly worked in the booth in 1983, '86 and '88."

-1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


GEORGE GRANDE (WPIX)
"In his first year as a Yankee broadcaster, George Grande brings to New York the kind of baseball knowledge Yankee fans will come to respect.
Grande was a charter broadcaster on ESPN in 1979 and went on to host the weekly 'Inside Baseball' highlights program. He also served as the baseball reporter for the nightly SportsCenter. George was twice named Connecticut's Sportscaster of the Year."

-The New York Yankees Official 1989 Yearbook

"George Grande, in his first year as a Yankees broadcaster, was a charter broadcaster of ESPN in 1979 and went on to host the weekly 'Inside Baseball' highlights program. Grande was twice named Connecticut's Sportscaster of the Year."

-1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


GREG GUMBEL (MSG)
"The multi-dimensional Greg Gumbel joins the MSG Network telecasts of Yankees games as host of the pre- and postgame shows. Gumbel also hosts three weekly programs for the network, and calls play-by-play for selected New York Knicks telecasts."

-The New York Yankees Official 1989 Yearbook

"Greg Gumbel joins the MSG Network telecast of Yankees games as host of the pre- and postgame shows for the network and calls play-by-play for selected New York Knicks telecasts."

-1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


TOM SEAVER (WPIX)
"One of New York's greatest sports heroes, Tom Seaver returns to the Big Apple as a Yankee broadcaster for WPIX. He has broadcast four World Series and five League Championship Series for network television.
Seaver collected 311 career wins and won the Cy Young Award three times in his 20-year career."

-The New York Yankees Official 1989 Yearbook

"Tom Seaver, one of the greatest pitchers in major league history, starts his first season as a Yankees broadcaster. Seaver won the Cy Young Award three times in his 20-year career and broadcast four World Series and five League Championship Series for network television."

-1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


TOMMY HUTTON (MSG)
"This is Tommy Hutton's third season as a Yankee broadcaster. After spending 17 years in pro ball, the former infielder turned to broadcasting in 1981 as a regular on the Montreal Expos broadcasts.
Tommy now brings his upbeat manner and knowledge of the game to the attention of Yankee fans. He works alongside Bobby Murcer in the MSG Network booth."

-The New York Yankees Official 1989 Yearbook

"Tommy Hutton returns for his third year as a Yankee broadcaster, his first with MSG Network. He previously spent five years as a broadcaster for the Montreal Expos. Before his broadcast career, Tommy spent 12 seasons in the major leagues."

-1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


JAY JOHNSTONE (WABC)
"There are few more personable individuals in the game of baseball than Jay Johnstone. He has been involved in baseball for 26 years and retired in 1985 after playing for eight major league teams.
Since his retirement, Jay has kept busy as the color analyst for college baseball on ESPN. His wit and enthusiasm for the game will make him popular among Yankee fans in his first year as a Yankees broadcaster."

-The New York Yankees Official 1989 Yearbook

"Johnstone, who played with the Yankees in 1978-79 during his 20 years in the major leagues, has become a nationally known broadcaster and author following the conclusion of his playing career."

-1989 New York Yankees Information Guide

"The always colorful Jay Johnstone enters the Yankee broadcast booth for the first time. A 20-year major league veteran, Jay played for the Yankees, Dodgers, Cubs, Padres, Phillies, A's, White Sox and Angels. After his playing career he worked as a college baseball analyst for ESPN."

-1989 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


BILL WHITE, NATIONAL LEAGUE PRESIDENT
"Each summer for more years than he likes to count, Bill White would meet for dinner with an old friend from Hiram College. They would talk about those days on the placid Ohio campus and they would talk about the days since.
'He's a surgeon now and he would describe his work and talk about the lives he has saved,' remembers White. 'I would talk about the exciting games I played, the World Series and All-Star Games I enjoyed and the tremendous Yankee baseball I described through the years.'
There would be much joy at the reunion and a little sadness. The doctor would moan about his inability to hit the curve ball and march on into baseball as White did. The former Yankee broadcaster and new president of the National League would muse about what his own life might have been like if he had continued his educational dream and went through medical school.
The musings will certainly take on a different tone this summer as White begins his term as the 13th National League president and first to represent his race.
Baseball took a historic step on February 3, 1989 when it named William De Kova White as its new NL president to succeed A. Bartlett Giamatti.
What was truly significant about the acceptance of White as the NL boss was not the color of his skin but the quality of his work. White became the first National League president to move into the position from the playing ranks. The American League had made that historic move twice before with Hall of Famer Joe Cronin and present chief Bobby Brown, the former Yankee third baseman and retired physician.
After 18 years in the Yankees' broadcast booth- a more significant move in 1971 than his present promotion in 1989- followers of the former first baseman's career could hardly be surprised.
The smooth-fielding, sweet-stroking left-handed hitter with the Giants, Cardinals and Phillies was a leader on every team he played for, was a figure of dignity and style around the Yankees and has as many baseball friends without really trying as any man in the game.
'When I played with him,' says Hall of Famer Bob Gibson, 'he was a leader on our club. The 1964 Cardinals (Gibson, Curt Flood, Ken Boyer, Dick Groat, Lou Brock, Roger Craig, Curt Simmons, Ray Sadecki) was a veteran club. That was the year we passed the Phillies on the final day of the season. We probably didn't have the best talent but we played hard together.'
That Cardinal team was as famous for its clubhouse needling as its performance on the field. One of the lead characters, if not a lead performer, was Bob Uecker. Many of the lines now heard from him on the Tonight Show were tried out on his St. Louis teammates.
'Bill ran a little trading post in that clubhouse,' Gibson added. 'We used to get small gifts for appearing on radio and television in those days, a portable radio, a shaver, a small traveling bag, things like that. We gave everything to Bill for his trading post. Then we visited his locker when we needed an item and made a deal. I think that business experience will help him in his new job.'
Born in Florida and raised in Ohio, White's family always stressed education. Both his parents were school teachers and White clearly made his future intentions known early. He was going to medical school.
'I got through Hiram College on athletic scholarships and then I needed money for medical school. I had been accepted at Ohio State. I decided to postpone school and play one summer after the Giants signed me for a $5,000 bouns,' White says.
He reported to Danville in the Carolina League and hit .298. He got a pay raise from the Giants and decided to try one more season of professional baseball before starting medical school. He batted .319 at Sioux City in the Western League. His fate was fixed.
'I guess I surprised myself and everybody else by how well I did. The Giants were pressing me for a decision about my future. They had big plans for me and they didn't want me leaving them as I was moving up. I decided to cast my lot with baseball,' he says.
The Giants, Cardinals, Phillies and all of baseball would benefit from that decision. White would add his own style and grace to the game. He was not only a fine performer almost from the start, he was a wonderful representative of the game.
He joined the New York Giants in 1956 and was slightly in awe of his more famous teammates, especially Willie Mays, then reaching his peak as one of the game's greatest performers.
'Willie made it all look easy. I had to work for everything I got in baseball,' he says.
He hit .256 as a New York rookie, spent most of the next two years in the service and was traded to the Cardinals in the spring of 1959. He reported to them in St. Petersburg, Florida. He had previously trained with the Giants in Arizona.
'This was 1959, a dozen years after Jackie Robinson, and black players still lived separately from the whites. I wasn't about to sit still for that,' he says.
Led by White, Gibson, Flood and an outspoken militant named George Crowe, the minority players fought for and won housing with the rest of the ball club. It was a major step forward. When the Yankees followed suit in that town, it was a lot easier for the Mets when they landed in St. Petersburg in 1962.
White's peak year with the Cardinals probably was the pennant-winning season of 1964. He batted .305, had 102 RBI (White had four seasons over 100 RBI in 13 years), slugged 21 homers and led the league in fielding.
He was traded to the Phillies in 1966, tore his Achilles tendon there in 1968 and ended his career back in St. Louis in 1969. He batted .286 for those 13 seasons, not Hall of Fame numbers, but quality play for good teams.
As his career began winding down, White began revving up as a broadcaster. He did some broadcasting in Philadelphia and was taken on by KMOX in St. Louis in the off-season after the trade.
As the civil rights movement gained strength in the late 1960s, White's name came up often as a candidate for the first black manager. No less a personage than Jackie Robinson singled White out as the most qualified man for that historic breakthrough.
'I never really wanted to manage,' he says. 'I didn't want my job to depend on 25 other guys.'
He became more proficient in broadcasting. In 1971, former Yankee boss Michael Burke brought White to New York as a partner on radio with Phil Rizzuto. It was quite a gamble.
White, intelligent, quick-witted, fast with a quip and highly knowledgeable about the game, was an immediate hit. When George Steinbrenner took over the team in January of 1973 he quickly assured White he was a big part of the new New York Yankees.
'We went back a long way,' says Steinbrenner. 'I remember seeing him as a basketball player for Hiram College when I was coaching an Air Force team. I followed his career as a player and I was proud to have him with the Yankees.'
Steinbrenner never actually offered the managerial job on the team but he did discuss the managerial prospects on several occasions through the years.
'He could have been a great manager if he had wanted to go that way,' Steinbrenner says. 'He's a true leader. He could do anything in business. He could have run my shipping company. He's that good. He'll be as good as anyone the National League ever had in that position.'
For 18 years White and Rizzuto teamed together to bring fans the game on radio and television. There was much affection displayed and a lot of old-fashioned ballplayer humor.
When asked why he would leave the security of baseball broadcasting for the pressures of the National League executive suite, White explained, 'If you ever worked 18 years with Rizzuto you know my motivation. I sat next to that guy all those years and he still doesn't know my first name.'
White was kidding about that as everyone knew. In ball player parlance, no one ever has a first name. That was Rizzuto's way of calling White a teammate.
When the new president was installed at a lavish press conference, the reporters pressed the issue of race. They zeroed in on White's feeling about being the first black to hold the position.
'I don't know how I feel,' he laughed. 'I've been black all my life.'
Gibson is tired of that part of the story.
'The guy got the job because he was the best man the owners could find,' says the former fireballer. 'That should be the last time we have to listen to race questions.'
It is clear White got his new position because he is a solid, intelligent, experienced, dignified, popular baseball man. Color has as much bearing on his qualifications as the Yankees manager being Green or the AL's president being Brown.
The 55-year-old divorced father of five also recognized that there are different stages in a man's life. 'I wanted to get on with my life,' he explains. 'After 18 years of saying 'It's a groundball to second,' it was time for something a bit more definite.'
White had come a long way from those days when he was simply an ex-jock learning his new trade. He is clearly a professional broadcaster with all the skills and authority of some of his great predecessors- Mel Allen, Russ Hodges, Red Barber, Joe Garagiola, Curt Gowdy and Scooter.
'I hope to bring the job my experience as a player and a love of the game,' he says. 'I also hope to bring more harmony between the players and the owners.'
I have known Bill White for more than 30 years. He is an exceptional man. This may not be his final career move."

-Maury Allen, The New York Yankees Official 1989 Yearbook

Sunday, September 4, 2016

1990 New York Yankees Broadcasters

"Yankee baseball will be broadcast for the 52nd consecutive season in 1990. WPIX-TV (Channel 11) will be the New York City television outlet for the 40th straight season, while WABC Radio (770 AM) is leading the Yankee radio network as the flagship station for the tenth straight year. A network covering 12 states also participates in the Yankees' TV and radio coverage. The Madison Square Garden Network is beginning its second season as the Yankees' cable television outlet in the tri-state area, and Yankee games will also be broadcast in Spanish to Latin America for the 21st straight season. These comprehensive broadcast outlets insure that Yankee baseball will be one of the most widely available sports events in the country.
On WPIX, the Yankee trio of Phil Rizzuto, George Grande and Tom Seaver begin their second season together in the television booth. Jay Johnstone begins his second season on WABC Radio Yankee broadcasts. On MSG, newcomers DeWayne Staats and Tony Kubek will handle play-by-play and color analysis in the broadcast booth."

-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide

"Yankees baseball will be broadcast for the 52nd consecutive year in 1990. WPIX-TV will be the New York City television station for the 40th straight season. WABC TALKRADIO, 77 on your AM dial, is leading the Yankees radio network for the tenth straight year. MSG Network will be the Yankees' cable television carrier."

-1990 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


PHIL RIZZUTO (WPIX)
"The one and only Scooter, the greatest shortstop in Yankees history, is in his 34th year of giving viewers the inside word on the Bronx Bombers. Phil's outgoing personality and lively banter have spiced up Yankees broadcasts on WPIX since he started the job after ending his brilliant career on the playing field.
He never rests while at work and that dedication shows during broadcasts. Simply put, the Scooter on the air means fun for the fans."

-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook

"Rizzuto, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, begins his 50th season of affiliation with the New York Yankees, his 34th as a broadcaster. The 1950 American League MVP moved into the broadcast booth immediately following his playing career (1941-56) in 1957."

-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide

"Phil Rizzuto, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, is now in his 34th year as a Yankees broadcaster. The 1950 American League MVP moved to the broadcast booth immediately following his playing career (1941-56) in 1957."

-1990 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


TONY KUBEK (MSG)
"The Yankees welcome a familiar face into the MSG booth this season. Tony Kubek, a Yankee shortstop for nine seasons, will serve as the network's analyst and will provide pregame insights on Yankees Scoreboard.
Kubek spent 24 years as an analyst for NBC's 'Baseball Game of the Week.'"

-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook

"Tony Kubek, the longtime analyst for NBC Sports' Baseball Game of the Week and one of the most respected voices in baseball, also joins the Yankee broadcasts. He spent the past 24 years in the NBC booth, working with Curt Gowdy, Joe Garagiola and Jim Simpson. He also spent the past 13 seasons as a television broadcaster for Toronto Blue Jays baseball.
Kubek was a popular Yankee shortstop for the duration of his career (1957-65), going to six World Series along the way."

-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide

"Tony Kubek, a Yankee shortstop for nine seasons, will serve as the network's analyst and will provide pregame insights on Yankees Scoreboard. Kubek spent 24 years as an analyst for NBC's Baseball Game of the Week."

-1990 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


GEORGE GRANDE (WPIX)
"In his second year as a Yankee broadcaster on WPIX, George Grande brings to New York the kind of baseball knowledge Yankee fans have come to respect.
Grande was a charter broadcaster on ESPN in 1979 and went on to host the weekly 'Inside Baseball' highlights program. He also served as the baseball reporter for the nightly SportsCenter. George was twice named Connecticut's Sportscaster of the Year."

-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook

"A veteran broadcaster, Grande was a charter member of ESPN and worked for them from 1979-87. The native of Hamden, CT also handled CBS Radio's 'Game of the Week' and has been twice named Connecticut's Sportscaster of the Year."

-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide

"George Grande, in his second year as a Yankees broadcaster, was a charter broadcaster of ESPN in 1979 and went on to host the weekly 'Inside Baseball' highlights program. Grande was twice named Connecticut's Sportscaster of the Year."

-1990 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


DEWAYNE STAATS (MSG)
"One of the most respected play-by-play announcers in the business, DeWayne Staats starts his first season as a Yankee broadcaster on MSG.
Staats worked the past five years as the voice of the Chicago Cubs on WGN-TV and radio. Before his stint in Chicago, he spent eight years as the Astros play-by-play man."

-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook

"Staats most recently served as the play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Cubs on WGN-TV and radio from 1985-89. He also handled play-by-play duties for the Houston Astros for eight seasons prior to joining the Cubs."

-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide

"DeWayne Staats, one of the most respected play-b-play announcers in the business, starts his first season as a Yankee broadcaster on MSG Network. DeWayne worked the past five years as the voice of the Chicago Cubs on WGN-TV and radio. Before his stint in Chicago, he spent eight seasons as the Astros play-by-play man."

-1990 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


TOM SEAVER (WPIX)
"One of New York's greatest sports heroes, Tom Seaver returns for his second year as a Yankee broadcaster for WPIX. He has broadcast four World Series and five League Championship Series for network television.
Seaver collected 311 career wins and won the Cy Young Award three times in his 20-year career."

-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook

"Tom Seaver's broadcast career started in 1975 when he did work for Channel 2 in New York. He also worked the postseason for ABC and NBC from 1976-82, and for CBS Radio as well. The 311-game winner still holds four major league records as well as three Cy Young Awards."

-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide

"Tom Seaver, one of the greatest pitchers in major league history, is in his second season as a Yankees broadcaster. Seaver won the Cy Young Award three times in his 20-year career and broadcast four World Series and five League Championship Series for network television."

-1990 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


JAY JOHNSTONE (WABC)
"There are few more personable individuals in the game of baseball than Jay Johnstone. He has been involved in baseball for 27 years and retired in 1985 after playing for eight major league teams.
Since his retirement, Jay has kept busy as the color analyst for college baseball on ESPN. His wit and enthusiasm for the game have made him popular among Yankee fans in his second year as a Yankees broadcaster on WABC radio."

-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook

"Johnstone, who played with the Yankees in 1978-79 during his 20 years in the major leagues, has become a nationally known broadcaster and author following the conclusion of his playing career."

-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide

"The always colorful Jay Johnstone enters the Yankees' WABC broadcast booth for for his second season. A 20-year major league veteran, Jay played for the Yankees, Dodgers, Cubs, Padres, Phillies, A's, White Sox and Angels. After his playing career, he worked as a college baseball analyst for ESPN."

-1990 New York Yankees Scorebook & Souvenir Program


NOTE: Bobby Murcer was not listed in either the New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook or the 1990 New York Yankees Information Guide.

Friday, August 12, 2016

1991 New York Yankees Broadcasters

"Yankee baseball will be broadcast for the 53rd consecutive season in 1991. WPIX-TV (Channel 11) will be the New York City television outlet for the 41st straight season, while WABC Radio (770 AM) is leading the Yankee radio network as the flagship station for the eleventh straight year. A network covering 12 states also participates in the Yankees' TV and radio coverage. The Madison Square Garden Network is beginning its third season as the Yankees' cable television outlet in the tri-state area, and Yankee games will also be broadcast in Spanish to Latin America for the 22nd straight season. These comprehensive broadcast outlets insure that Yankee baseball will be one of the most widely available sports events in the country.
Joe Angel begins his first season on the Yankee broadcasts on WABC radio, and engineer Brian Fergenson begins his 11th season in the booth. On MSG, DeWayne Staats and Tony Kubek both return for their second season to handle play-by-play and color analysis in the broadcast booth."

-1991 New York Yankees Information Guide


TONY KUBEK (MSG)
"Returning for his second year in the Madison Square Garden Network booth is Tony Kubek, one of the most respected voices in baseball. The former Yankee shortstop, who played in six World Series, previously spent 24 years with NBC Sports as analyst for the Baseball Game of the Week and 13 seasons as a television broadcaster for the Toronto Blue Jays.
Tony's insightful coverage of the Yankees has made a lasting impression with the team's fans."

-The New York Yankees Official 1991 Yearbook

"Kubek, the longtime analyst for NBC Sports' Baseball Game of the Week and one of the most respected voices in baseball, returns for his second campaign with the Yankees. He spent 24 years in the NBC booth, working with Curt Gowdy, Joe Garagiola and Jim Simpson. He also spent 13 seasons as a television broadcaster for Toronto Blue Jays baseball.
Kubek was a popular Yankee shortstop for the duration of his career (1957-65), going to six World Series along the way."

-1991 New York Yankees Information Guide


DEWAYNE STAATS (MSG)
"Known as one of the best play-by-play announcers in the business, DeWayne Staats in now in his second season broadcasting Yankees games for Madison Square Garden Network.
Staats served as play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Cubs on WGN-TV and radio from 1985-89. He also performed the same duties for the Houston Astros for eight seasons prior to joining the Cubs."

-The New York Yankees Official 1991 Yearbook

"Staats served as the play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Cubs on WGN-TV and radio from 1985-89. He also handled play-by-play duties for the Houston Astros for eight seasons prior to joining the Cubs."

-1991 New York Yankees Information Guide


JOE ANGEL (WABC)
"An 11-year veteran of broadcasting major league baseball games, Joe Angel begins his first year in the WABC radio booth. Angel had broadcast the Baltimore Orioles the past three seasons and had also had previously worked for the Minnesota Twins (1984-86), Oakland Athletics (1980-81) and San Francisco Giants (1976-78).
A native of Columbia, South America, Angel brings a fresh approach and insight to his broadcasts."

-The New York Yankees Official 1991 Yearbook

"Joe Angel joins the Yankees broadcasts this year after spending the past three seasons covering Baltimore Orioles games on the radio. This is his 12th season broadcasting major league baseball, having worked Minnesota Twins (1984-86) and San Francisco Giants (1976-78) games as well as providing play-by-play for Oakland Athletics telecasts (1980-81). He was raised in the San Francisco area and quarterbacked the Galileo High School football team that featured running back O.J. Simpson. A native of Columbia in South America, Joe makes his home in Rancho Murieta, California."

-1991 New York Yankees Information Guide

NOTE: Phil Rizzuto, Bobby Murcer and Tom Seaver were not listed in either the 1991 Yankees Yearbook or the 1991 Yankees Information Guide.

Saturday, July 16, 2016

1992 New York Yankees Broadcasters

"Yankee baseball will be broadcast for the 54th consecutive season in 1992. WPIX-TV (Channel 11) will be the New York City television outlet for the 42nd straight season, while WABC Radio (770 AM) is leading the Yanks' radio network as the flagship station for the 12th straight year. A network covering 12 states also participates in the Yankees' TV and radio coverage. Director/Producer John Moore begins his 13th season with WPIX, and WABC Engineer/Producer Brian Fergenson begins his 12th season in the booth.
The Madison Square Garden Network is beginning its fourth season as the Yankees' cable television outlet in the tri-state area, and Yankee games will also be broadcast in Spanish to Latin America for the 23rd straight season.
These comprehensive broadcast outlets insure that Yankee baseball will be one of the most widely available sports events in the country."

-1992 New York Yankees Information Guide


PHIL RIZZUTO (WPIX)
"The one and only Scooter, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, is in his 36th year of giving viewers the inside word on the Bronx Bombers. Phil's outgoing personality and lively banter have spiced up the Yankees' broadcasts on WPIX since he started the job after ending his brilliant career on the playing field. He never rests while at work and that dedication shows during broadcasts.
Simply put, the Scooter on the air means fun for the fans."

-The New York Yankees Official 1992 Yearbook

"Rizzuto, the greatest shortstop in Yankee history, begins his 52nd year of affiliation with the New York Yankees, and 36th as a broadcaster. The 1950 American League MVP moved into the broadcast booth immediately following his playing career (1941-56) in 1957."

-1992 New York Yankees Information Guide


BOBBY MURCER (WPIX)
"Murcer, a former star outfielder with the Yankees, returns for his fourth season and second consecutive as a Yankee broadcaster on WPIX.
After finishing his playing career in 1983, Murcer started working in the broadcast booth and has found much success. Yankee fans are always excited to see this familiar face talking Yankee baseball."

-The New York Yankees Official 1992 Yearbook

"Murcer, a former star outfielder for the Yankees, returns for his fourth season, and second consecutive, as a Yankee broadcaster."

-1992 New York Yankees Information Guide


TOM SEAVER (WPIX)
"One of New York's greatest sports heroes, Tom Seaver returns for his fourth year as a Yankees broadcaster for WPIX. He has broadcast four World Series and five League Championship Series for network television.
Seaver collected 311 career wins, won the Cy Young Award three times in his 20-year career and is a 1992 inductee into the Baseball Hall of Fame."

-The New York Yankees Official 1992 Yearbook

"Seaver's broadcast career started in 1975 when he did work for Channel 2 in New York. He also worked the postseason for ABC and NBC from 1976-82 and for CBS Radio. He returns for his fourth season in the Yankee booth.
The 311-game winner is a three-time Cy Young Award winner and a 1992 inductee into the Baseball Hall of Fame."

-1992 New York Yankees Information Guide


DEWAYNE STAATS (MSG)
"Known as one of the best play-by-play announcers in the business, DeWayne Staats in now in his third season broadcasting Yankees games for Madison Square Garden Network.
Staats served as play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Cubs on WGN-TV and radio from 1985-89. He also performed the same duties for the Houston Astros for eight seasons prior to joining the Cubs."

-The New York Yankees Official 1992 Yearbook

"Staats returns for his third season on MSG. He served as the play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Cubs on WGN-TV and radio from 1985-89. He also handled play-by-play duties for the Houston Astros for eight seasons prior to joining the Cubs."

-1992 New York Yankees Information Guide


TONY KUBEK (MSG)
"Returning for his third year in the Madison Square Garden Network booth is Tony Kubek, one of the most respected voices in baseball. The former Yankee shortstop, who played in six World Series, previously spent 24 years with NBC Sports as an analyst for the Baseball Game of the Week and 13 seasons as a television broadcaster for the Toronto Blue Jays.
Tony's insightful coverage of the Yankees has made a lasting impression with the team's fans."

-The New York Yankees Official 1992 Yearbook

"Kubek, the longtime analyst for NBC Sports' Baseball Game of the Week and one of the most respected voices in baseball, also returns for his third campaign with the Yankees. He spent 24 years in the NBC booth, working with Curt Gowdy, Joe Garagiola and Jim Simpson. He also spent 13 seasons as a television broadcaster for Toronto Blue Jays baseball.
Kubek was a popular Yankee shortstop for the duration of his career (1957-65), going to six World Series along the way."

-1992 New York Yankees Information Guide