Date of Birth: September 25, 1917
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Date of Death: August 13, 2007
Biography
Philip Francis Rizzuto, commonly known as Phil Rizzuto, was an American Major League Baseball shortstop who played his entire 13-season career for the New York Yankees. Born on September 25, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, Rizzuto was known for his defensive prowess, quickness, and leadership skills. After his playing career, he transitioned seamlessly into a long and successful career as a broadcaster for the Yankees. Rizzuto’s contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994. Beyond baseball, he was also a World War II veteran, serving in the United States Navy. Rizzuto passed away on August 13, 2007, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most beloved figures in baseball history.
5 Interesting Facts about Phil Rizzuto
1. Phil Rizzuto was nicknamed “The Scooter” because of his speed and small stature.
2. He won the American League MVP Award in 1950.
3. Rizzuto was a part of seven World Series championship teams with the Yankees.
4. He served in the United States Navy during World War II, interrupting his baseball career from 1943 to 1945.
5. Rizzuto had a long career as a Yankees broadcaster, known for his catchphrase “Holy Cow!”
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Phil Rizzuto
1. “I like radio better than television because if you make a mistake on radio, they don’t know. You can make up anything on the radio.”
2. “I guess heaven must have needed a shortstop.”
3. “I’ll take any way to get on base. A walk, a hit by pitch, an error, a base hit — a home run — anyone of them.”
4. “It’s incredible how much you give up for the game.”
5. “Holy Cow!”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Phil Rizzuto’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $2 million.
Children
Phil Rizzuto and his wife, Cora Anne Esselborn, had four children: Patricia, Cynthia, Mary, and Philip Jr.
Relevant Links
1. [Phil Rizzuto’s Hall of Fame Biography](https://baseballhall.org/hall-of-famers/rizzuto-phil
2. [Phil Rizzuto’s Military Service](https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/phil-rizzuto/
3. [Phil Rizzuto’s Player Statistics](https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rizzuph01.shtml
5. [Phil Rizzuto’s MVP Season](https://www.mlb.com/news/phil-rizzuto-1950-mvp-season-c267457034
