Guide Note: Thurman Munson was a member of the New York Yankees for 11 years and has been called one of the greatest catchers of the 1970s. His attitude, sharp thinking and leadership earned him the position of team captain. His died tragically in an airplane accident while practicing landing. He is not forgotten today, and a replica of his locker is on display at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.
Fast Facts:
- Born June 7, 1947, Akron, Ohio
- Thurman Munson played his entire career as catcher with the New York Yankees
- He was a seven-time All-Star, named the American League Rookie of the Year in 1970, the American League MVP in 1976, and recipient of three Gold Glove Awards
- As first Yankee captain since Lou Gehrig, Munson led the Yankees to three straight AL titles (1976-78) and two World Series crowns (1977-78)
- After Thurman's tragic death, the entire Yankee team attended his funeral in Canton, Ohio
- The Yankees retired his No. 15 uniform and have a memorial plaque on the centerfield wall at Yankee Stadium
- Thurman Munson's locker has remained empty ever since his death. It serves as a small, silent tribute to this much-missed Yankee ballplayer
