Thurman Lee Munson was an American professional baseball catcher who played 11 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the New York Yankees, from 1969 until his death in 1979. A seven-time All-Star, Munson had a career batting average of .292 with 113 home runs and 701 runs batted in (RBIs). Known for his outstanding fielding, he won the Gold Glove Award in three consecutive years (1973–75).
Thurman Munson
Brad Gulden (with Billy Martin and Catfish Hunter) was one of two catchers to play in the game after Thurman Munson's funeral. His black memorial armband is visible.
Thurman Munson's number 15 was retired by the New York Yankees in 1979.
Grave of Munson at Sunset Hills Burial Park
Catcher is a position in baseball and softball. When a batter takes their turn to hit, the catcher crouches behind home plate, in front of the (home) umpire, and receives the ball from the pitcher. In addition to this primary duty, the catcher is also called upon to master many other skills in order to field the position well. The role of the catcher is similar to that of the wicket-keeper in cricket.
Kansas City Royals catcher and 5× Gold Glove winner Salvador Pérez stands behind home plate during a 2013 game versus the New York Mets.
Uni-President Lions catcher Kao Chih-kang preparing for a game
Ali Sánchez's orange-painted fingernail during a 2022 game for the Toledo Mud Hens
Catcher Matt Wieters blocks runner Derek Jeter from tagging home plate.