Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Johnny Blanchard... rest in peace
The Yankees have always had their share of superstars, but they have won World Series left and right with contributions from lesser known players.
Mickey Mantle is hurt during the 1961 World Series?
No problem!
Johnny Blanchard, the third string catcher and part time outfielder, clocked a pinch hit homer in the 8th inning of Game 3 to tie the game.
Then in Game 5, he homered in the first inning off of Reds pitcher Joey Jay, sparking a 5 run rally. He would double in the 4th and score on a Moose Skowron single and the Yankees pulled away for the win and the Series title.
Blanchard wasn't the biggest name... but got some of the biggest hits.
He also was a favorite of my mom's, who remembered him as a guy who didn't play much, but homered when he did. (He homered 21 times in only 243 at bats in 1961.)
Rest in peace Johnny, your rings well earned.
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