Phil Rizzuto

Phil Rizzuto, nicknamed “The Scooter,” was a beloved shortstop and broadcaster whose small stature (5'6") belied his enormous impact on the New York Yankees' dynasty of the 1940s and 1950s. A slick fielder and savvy hitter, Rizzuto was the American League MVP in 1950 and helped lead the Yankees to seven World Series championships. His bunting, base running, and defensive brilliance earned him a place in the Hall of Fame in 1994, but he may be best remembered for his endearing, decades long broadcasting career.

Rizzuto’s true legacy lies in his approachability and longevity. He was a bridge between generations of baseball fans and became one of the most beloved voices of the game in New York.  Phil Rizzuto showed that greatness didn’t always come with size and that decency was measured as much by how you treated others as by how you played the game.