The Yankees tend to draft, sign, or develop players that are of all-star, or even Hall of Fame, caliber – more so than other teams. Playing in New York on arguably the world’s most famous team, you have a great opportunity to market your own brand. The following are the five most popular Yankees over the last 25 years.
5) Andy Pettitte: With more postseason wins than anyone else to pitch a baseball, Andy Pettitte was the anchor of the Yankees starting rotation from the 90’s all the way to their championship in 2009. He may be even higher on this list if he did not leave for the Houston Astros in the mid 2000’s.
4) Hideki Matsui: While not the most popular player in the United States, Hideki Matsui had the entire nation of Japan glued to a television when he made his debut as a Yankee. The left-handed left fielder was a core part of the Yankees during the 2000’s and ended on a high note winning World Series MVP in 2009.
3) Mariano Rivera: The greatest closer of all time falls at number 3 on this list. Mo dominated hitters for 19 years and he practically did it with just his cutter. Many experts believe that Mariano’s cutter may be the best single pitch in MLB history and thus made him world famous.
2) Alex Rodriguez: By far the most hated player on this list, A-Rod is undeniably popular. The man is one of the richest baseball players of all time and continued to make headlines whether it was for his steroid use, outstanding play, or off the field relationship drama.
1) Derek Jeter: The face of baseball for almost two decades, Derek Jeter was what every parent wanted their son to act like. Sure his good looks factored into his popularity, but his ability to hit in the postseasons and be an MVP candidate year after year, led to Jeter to being the most famous Yankee in the past 25 years.