Full Name : Joseph Paul DiMaggio
Born : November 25, 1914
Hometown : Martinez, California
Height : 6' 2
Weight : 193 lbs
Bats : Right
Throws : Right
Major League Baseball debut : May 3, 1936 for the New York Yankees
Family : brothers, Tom, Michael, Dominic; wife, Marilyn Monroe, Dorothy Arnold; children, Joseph III
Primary Position : CF (Center Field)
After winning three Most Valuable Player Awards and being selected as an all-star on thirteen separate occasions, Joe DiMaggio is now regarded as one of the most skillful athletes in Major League Baseball history. Born on November 25, 1914, DiMaggio grew up to capture one of the most prestigious records in sports history when he hit safely in 56 consecutive games. His success as an athlete became noticed during his stint in the Pacific Coast League when he hit in a record-breaking 61 consecutive games. Once regarded as "lazy" by his father, DiMaggio proved that he was capable of performing at an exceptional level.
DiMaggio went on to spend his entire career with the New York Yankees, and it is no doubt that he has become an icon of the Yankee legacy. He debuted in pinstripes on May 3, 1936, and batted next to Lou Gehrig. The Yankees went on to win four consecutive World Series championships after DiMaggio was brought up, demonstrating just how much of an impact he had with the organization. In his thirteen seasons with the Yankees, DiMaggio won two batting titles, three Most Valuable Player Awards, and made 13 all-star appearances. He would eventually be elected to the Hall of Fame in 1955.
In 1943, DiMaggio served time in the military when the United States entered World War 2. The armed forces felt he would be best as a physical education instructor, and when he had free time he played as much baseball as possible so that he could maintain his timing.
Unfortunately, DiMaggio was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1998. He experienced a tragic 18-hour coma that resulted from surgery. Reporters tried to release positive information regarding his health condition, but it soon became obvious that he was not going to make it. He is currently interred at Holy Cross Cemetery in Colma, California. Several dedications have been given to DiMaggio, including a reference to him in the famous song Mrs. Robinson by Simon and Garfunkel. Yankee Stadium has also dedicated a plaque to DiMaggio at Monument Park. Several television shows, including The Simpsons and Seinfeld, also make reference to DiMaggio. It will be very interesting to see if any players in the future of baseball break his infamous hitting streak. Currently, Willie Keeler is right behind him at 45 games on the all-time list. No doubt an icon in baseball history, DiMaggio will always be remembered as one of the most entertaining athletes to play the game.
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