The Man Who Slew the Yankees

Johnny Podres became a hero of mythical proportions back in 1955. His pitching helped the Brooklyn Dodgers beat the arch rival New York Yankees for the "Bums" first and only world series title. Podres died Sunday at the age of 75.

The then 23-yr old Podres tossed a complete game shutout as the Dodgers beat the Yankees, 2-0, in game 7 of the '55 series.

"I had a lot of great pitchers with the Dodgers -- Don Drysdale, Don Sutton, and one of the best in the business, Sandy Koufax," (Buzzie) Bavasi said. "But when we needed to win a ballgame, who do you think we went to? Johnny Podres."

Podres moved with the team to LA and was part of championships in 1959 and 1963. After he retired at the end of the 1969 season, he moved into the coaching ranks. Pitchers such as Curt Schilling and Jim Kaat have credit Podres for having a major influence on them.

Podres is survived by his wife of 41 years, Joan and 2 sons.

photo courtesy of JohnnyPodres.com