Latino Legend: Vernon "Lefty" Gómez and World Series

I realize that we are living in a world these days where most people live by the words to one of Janet Jackson biggest hits, “What have you done for me lately?” 

However, being the immense sports historian that I am, I always like to remember the outstanding athletes of yesteryear – those trailblazing pioneers who generally performed as if every performance could be their last – and were paid on same, ‘What have you done foe me lately’ basis – unlike today’s stars who receive their millions before ever doing anything of consequence as a professional. 

Having said that, this article is the first in a series on some of the greatest Hispanic athletes in various sports, of all-time. So, without further adieu, here is the story of “Lefty” Gomez. 

Gómez, a Hall of Fame inductee, was one of the most instrumental players in helping the New York Yankees win five American League Pennants and five World Series Championships during the 1930s. 

Incredibly, the Yankees purchased the rights to Gomez from his hometown San Francisco Seals in 1929 for $35,000. Two years later Gomez, with his trademark, high leg kick - and smoking fastball - won 21 games for the Yankees playing with teammates like co-members of the Hall of Fame, Lou Gehrig and Joe DiMaggio.
After one winning game, the outspoken Gomez was quoted saying: "I want to thank all my teammates who scored so many runs and Joe DiMaggio, who ran down so many of my mistakes." 

The 6-2 slim lefty, along with right-hander Red Ruffing, formed a formidable this lefty-righty combination that was the core of the Yankees’ pitching staff in the 1930's. Despite born in Rodeo, California, Gomez is of Mexican descent and is considered one of baseball's greatest winners, ranking third in Yankee history in regular season wins with 189.