Yankees’ Andy Carey born in Oakland celebrates birthday today

Andy Carey, a former third baseman for the New York Yankees, was born in Oakland, California, on October 18, 1931, according to Pinstripe Alley.

Carey played for the Yankees from 1952 to 1960, a period that included many championship wins for the team in the 1950s. He was known as a supporting player during an era featuring legends like Mickey Mantle and Yogi Berra.

Originally named Andrew Arthur Hexem, Carey took his stepfather's last name after his mother remarried. He was a standout athlete in high school and attended St. Mary’s College in the Bay Area before signing with the Yankees.

Carey joined the Yankees after the college dropped its baseball program, signing for a then-record $60,000 following the repeal of the “Bonus Baby” rule. He was known for his confidence and desire to play third base, often clashing with manager Casey Stengel over his position.

Though he initially moved between the minors and majors in 1952, Carey became a regular on the Yankees starting in 1953, contributing to their success throughout the decade.