Maris hit one home run in the Series, but batted only .106. Players like Richardson, Johnny Blanchard and Hector Lopez earned starring roles in the 1961 World Series. Inc. The deeply religious Richardson had been in the national spotlight a year earlier when he delivered the eulogy at Mantle's funeral. Richardson, who played in all 162 games in 1961 for the Yankees, had a career batting average of only .266 in 12 seasons with the Yankees. But he hit .305 in seven World Series.
History tends to remember the extraordinary feats, the unusual plays, the great heroics.
If the Yankees win the World Series next week, it will probably be forgotten, just like the 1961 Series, in becoming only a footnote to perhaps the most remarkable baseball season ever. E.W. Scripps Publications , All Rights Reserved. Site users are subject to our User Agreement . We also have a Privacy Policy .