Johnny Blanchard Passed Today

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Posted By: Al Simeone

A Very nice man who I had met many times Died today at 76 of a heart attack. Was on some very strong Yankee teams in the early 60s. My thoughts are with you John.

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Posted By: barrysloate

Too bad about Johnny. I remember Blanchard, Berra, and Howard achieved amazing productivity from the catcher's position in 1961. I think each hit over 20 home runs, with some outfield duty too.

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Posted By: Al Simeone

Barry,
Your right a very un selfish man who would play ,pinch hit,pinch run to do anything to help the team win.

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Posted By: JimCrandell

My most lasting image of Blanchard is that told by Jim Bouton in Ball Four--

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Posted By: Jim VB

Very true Barry. Blanchard hit 21 HRs that year in only 243 ABs. The old joke used to be that the Yankees got 54 out of Mantle and 61 out of Maris but got 64 out of their catchers. Truth was, Howard (21 HRs)was their regular catcher. Berra (22 HRs) only caught about 15 games that year. He played mostly OF. Blanchard played a few games in the OF, but was mostly a back-up catcher and late inning PHer and sub.

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Posted By: Anonymous

Sorry to hear about Blanchard.

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Posted By: barry arnold

i loved wstching him as a kid and those fabulous Yankees.
my deepest condolences and sympathy to family and friends.
a sad day, indeed.

barry

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Posted By: Roger

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Posted By: JDRUM