Remembering Mel Stottlemyre

Sadly, Mel Stottlemyre, who certainly has a place in baseball history, especially that of the New York Yankees, has passed away at the age of 77.

Mel helped the Yankees win the 1964 American League Pennant, their incredible 29th in 44 seasons, and last for 12 seasons, by going (9-3) as a mid- season call up from the minor league.

The great Bob Gibson, won vs Stottlemyre in game 7 of that season’s World Series.

Stottlemyre was a very good pitcher, winning 20 or more games on less than stellar Yankees’ teams three times. He also lost 20 games in 1966.

It was as a pitching coach for the Yankees and Mets that Stottlemyre enjoyed great team and individual success, as he was part of 5 of the 6 (4 with the Yankees) combined titles for the two teams, in the past forty seasons (’79-2018).

On a personal note, years pass, people are no longer 9 years old, however, I vividly recall a Yankees/Stottlmyre fan come literally dancing out of his house/apartment, to tell the rest of us, “Stott” had won his 20th game.

That was a fine Saturday in 1965 and Mel Stottlemyre was a fine man/pitcher/teacher/coach.

Mel Stottlemyre, pictured above.