Tuesday, October 29, 2024

1962 Back-O'-The-Card: Tony Kubek

"Tony didn't join the Yankees until the 1962 season was underway, for the infielder was busy serving Uncle Sam.
Tony shines at the plate and on the field as a natural spark plug to a ball team. Batting .297 in 1957, he was named the American League Rookie of the Year. In the 1960 World Series against Pittsburgh, Tony slammed 10 hits."

-1962 Topps No. 430

Sunday, October 20, 2024

1962 Back-O'-The-Card: Elston Howard

"Last season Elston led the Yankees in hitting with his torrid .348 batting average. He joined the Bombers after hitting .330 for Toronto in the International League. The catcher has also played in the outfield and at first base.
Elston pinch-hit a homer in the 1960 World Series against Pittsburgh."

-1962 Topps No. 400 

American League All-Star, Catcher, Elston Howard
"Elston's batting average rose over 100 points last season, as he hit .348 in 1961 as compared to his .245 mark in 1960. The Yankee catcher has never worn any other major league uniform but the New York Pinstripes.
Joining the club in 1955, Elston had only three years of minor league experience under his belt. In his final season of Triple-A ball, Elston batted .330 and led the International League with 16 three-baggers. A versatile Yankee, he plays the outfield and first base in addition to his backstop duties. During the 1960 World Series against Pittsburgh, the popular Yankee tied a record by cracking two hits in the same inning.
With good power, Elston can erupt at any minute and sock the ball over the fence. He has five home runs in six World Series to his credit."

-1962 Topps No. 473

Saturday, October 5, 2024

1962 Back-O'-The-Card: Ralph Houk

"Ralph was on the spot when he took over the New York Yankees' managerial job last season. The rookie pilot knew that following in the footsteps of Casey Stengel was no easy task. Ralph passed his first year with flying colors, as the Yankees won the pennant and then beat Cincinnati in five games in the October classic.
Manager Houk played with the Yankees for eight seasons and although he had great potential, it was his misfortune to try to play regularly when Yogi Berra was having his peak years.
Ralph was a player-manager in 1955, '56 and '57 with the New York farm club in the American Association. From 1958 through 1960 he served as a coach for the New York club. His appointment as Yankee manager came as no surprise to fans who know Ralph and the way he studies the sport."

-1962 Topps No. 88

1962 Back-O'-The-Card: Tom Tresh (1962 rookie card)

"With Tony Kubek back in the Army, Tom will be bidding for the job left open at shortstop this season. The young rookie has the potenti...