Who are the best Yankee players of all time? What players have left an unforgettable legacy in the history of baseball? The New York Yankees, one of the most storied franchises in sports, have seen a plethora of legendary players grace their roster. These athletes have not only won numerous championships but have also become icons in the world of baseball.
All-time great Yanks like Babe Ruth, the Sultan of Swat, whose power-hitting redefined the game and led the Yankees to multiple World Series titles. Then there's Derek Jeter, the Captain, known for his clutch performances and leadership on and off the field, guiding the team to five championships during his career. And who can forget Mickey Mantle? The Mick, with his incredible switch-hitting prowess and remarkable speed, became a cornerstone of the Yankees during the 1950s and 60s. Each of these players brought their unique talents to the team, helping to cement the Yankees' reputation as a baseball powerhouse.
Now it's your turn to weigh in. Who do you think are the greatest Yankees of all time? Browse through our list and vote for your favorites. Your votes will help determine which players stand out the most in the Yankees' illustrious history. Share your picks and see how they compare with other fans' choices, celebrating the legendary careers of the best Yankee players.
- 1
The unparalleled Babe Ruth, a cornerstone of baseball history, transformed the sport with his prodigious power at the plate and his magnetic personality off the field. Most widely known for his unprecedented 60-home run season in 1927, the Sultan of Swat was a dynamic force who forever altered the course of the game. His legendary impact on the Yankees and the sport as a whole can still be felt today, with many of his records standing strong, serving as a testament to Ruth's sheer dominance during his time.
- Birthplace: Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Position: Right fielder, Outfielder, Left fielder, Pitcher
- 2
Lou Gehrig's raw talent and unwavering determination solidified his place as one of the greatest Yankees ever to grace the field. As the quintessential "Iron Horse," Gehrig's incredible 2,130 consecutive game streak showcased his grit and resilience while amassing numerous records along the way. His farewell speech, where he humbly referred to himself as "The Luckiest Man on the Face of the Earth," will forever resonate in the hearts of Yankee fans, capturing the essence of a man who was both a formidable competitor and an inspiration to all.
- Birthplace: New York City, USA, New York, Yorkville
- Position: First baseman
- 3
With a combination of awe-inspiring power and unmatched speed, Mickey Mantle ruled centerfield for the Yankees and left an indelible mark on the sport. The Commerce Comet's switch-hitting prowess allowed him to terrorize opposing pitchers, solidifying his status as one of the most feared sluggers of his time. Mantle's endless list of clutch performances and iconic moments will live on in baseball lore, as he epitomized the pinstripe spirit that defined the golden age of Yankee baseball.
- Birthplace: USA, Spavinaw, Oklahoma
- Position: Outfielder, First baseman, Center fielder
- 4
As the embodiment of elegance and grace, Joltin' Joe DiMaggio's smooth play and steady demeanor captivated discerning fans and casual observers alike. Notably remembered for his astounding 56-game hitting streak in 1941, a record that remains unbroken to this day, DiMaggio's consistency and skill forever etched his name in the annals of Yankee greatness. Beyond his on-field accomplishments, his marriage to screen icon Marilyn Monroe further solidified DiMaggio's mythical status as a true embodiment of the American Dream.
- Birthplace: USA, California, Martinez
- Position: Center fielder
- 5
Combining unparalleled wisdom with a flare for the unforgettable, Yogi Berra not only excelled as a player but also left an indelible mark on the sport with his Yogi-isms and unmistakable charm. As a skillful catcher and feared hitter, Berra was a key component of those iconic Yankee teams that dominated the baseball landscape during the 1950s. Berra's legacy extends far beyond the diamond, as his wit and wisdom resonated with generations of fans, transcending the sport and making him an enduring symbol of Americana.
- Birthplace: The Hill, USA, St. Louis, Missouri
- Position: Manager, Outfielder, Catcher
- 6
Armed with the most devastating cutter the game has ever seen, Mariano Rivera cemented his legacy as the greatest closer of all time and an invaluable member of the storied Yankees franchise. Known affectionately as "Mo" or "The Sandman," Rivera routinely entered games to the ominous strains of Metallica's "Enter Sandman," a fitting anthem for the pitcher who put countless opponents to rest. His legendary career, marked by countless iconic saves and postseason heroics, exemplifies the poise, determination, and class synonymous with the pinstripes.
- Birthplace: Panama City, Panama
- Team: New York Yankees
- Position: Relief pitcher, Pitcher
