1971 Yankees Key Players Profile: Thurman Munson Featured
Thurman Munson, a catcher for the Yankees, excelled in 1970, winning the AL Rookie of the Year. Despite a poor start, he rebounded to hit .302. Drafted first by the Yankees in 1968, Munson is noted for his arm. Outfielder Bobby Murcer led the Yankees with 24 home runs, showing both speed and power, and matched the AL lead with 15 outfield assists. Pitchers Fritz Peterson and Mel Stottlemyre were pivotal, with Peterson earning 20 wins and Stottlemyre leading in complete games. Roy White, another key outfielder, led in seven offensive categories and was one of only two Major Leaguers to play all 162 games that year.