 Elston Gene Howard was the first African-American player to wear Yankees' pinstripes. The clutch hitter and outstanding fielder was a valuable part of 10 pennant-winning teams. He began his professional career in the Negro League as a star catcher and outfielder with the Kansas City Monarchs. The Yankees purchased his contract in 1950, but he did not make his Major League debut until 1955. Howard played the outfield, first base, and backup catcher well enough to become an all-star in 1957. The first of nine consecutive selections. By 1960, Howard became the Yankees' regular catcher, and in 1963, the first black player to be named American League MVP. A pioneer pinstripe, Howard's number 32 was retired in 1984.