Career Timeline of Carl Yastrzemski: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of Carl Yastrzemski, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Carl Yastrzemski, nicknamed "Yaz", was a Major League Baseball player who spent his entire career with the Boston Red Sox. Primarily a left fielder early on, he transitioned to third base, then first base, and designated hitter later. He is known for his longevity and versatility, playing multiple positions throughout his career with the Red Sox.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1959: Signed with the Red Sox and Played for Raleigh Capitals

In 1959, Yastrzemski signed with the Red Sox organization and played for the minor-league Raleigh Capitals, leading the league with a .377 batting average.

1960: Played for the Minneapolis Millers

In 1960, Yastrzemski played for the Minneapolis Millers after being moved from the Raleigh Capitals organization after the post-season.

1961: Began Major-League Career

In 1961, Yastrzemski began his major-league career and hit his first home run off of Jerry Casale. He succeeded Ted Williams as a player.

1963: Won American League Batting Championship

In 1963, Yastrzemski won the American League batting championship with a .321 batting average, also leading the league in doubles and walks and finishing sixth in the Most Valuable Player voting.

November 1967: SPORT Magazine Article

In November 1967, Yastrzemski co-wrote an article for SPORT magazine, crediting the Red Sox's season to manager Dick Williams and the infusion of youth.

1967: Season of the Impossible Dream

1967 was the "Impossible Dream" season for the Red Sox, who won the American League pennant for the first time since 1946. Yastrzemski batted .513 over the last two weeks of the season.

1967: Won the American League Triple Crown

In 1967, Carl Yastrzemski won the American League Triple Crown with a .326 batting average, 44 home runs, and 121 RBIs. He was also voted Most Valuable Player.

1967: Led Red Sox to American League Pennant and Wins Triple Crown

In 1967, Yastrzemski led the Red Sox to the American League pennant and was voted the American League MVP. He also won the Triple Crown that year.

1968: Won Batting Championship

In 1968, Yastrzemski won the batting championship with a .301 mark, the lowest average of any batting champion in major league history, during "The Year of the Pitcher."

1969: First 40-Home Run Season

In 1969, Yastrzemski had the first of two consecutive 40-home run seasons, leading the Red Sox to a third-place finish that year.

1970: Named All-Star Game MVP

In 1970, Yastrzemski had four hits in the All-Star Game, tying the record, and was named the game MVP despite the American League losing. His .329 batting average that season was his career high.

1973: Finished Top Three in On-Base Percentage and Walks

In 1973 and 1974, Yastrzemski finished in the top 10 in batting and top three in on-base percentage and walks, leading the league in runs scored in 1974.

1974: Finished Top Three in On-Base Percentage and Walks

In 1973 and 1974, Yastrzemski finished in the top 10 in batting and top three in on-base percentage and walks, leading the league in runs scored in 1974.

1975: Hit Home Run in All-Star Game

In the 1975 All-Star Game, Yastrzemski hit Tom Seaver's first pitch for a three-run home run to tie the score, without wearing a batting helmet. The American League ended up losing the game 6-3.

May 19, 1976: Hit Three Home Runs Against Detroit Tigers

On May 19, 1976, Yastrzemski hit three home runs against the Detroit Tigers at Tiger Stadium and then hit two more at Yankee Stadium, tying the major league record of five home runs in two consecutive games.

September 12, 1979: Achieved 3,000 Hits and 400 Home Runs

On September 12, 1979, Yastrzemski became the first American League player with 3,000 career hits and 400 home runs.

1982: Featured on Sports Illustrated Cover

In 1982, playing primarily as a designated hitter, Yastrzemski was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated and played in that year's All-Star game due to an early season hitting streak.