On November 21, 1934, The New York Yankees absorbed a 19-year old Joe DiMaggio from San Francisco for five other players and $50,000.

DiMaggio’s Early Start

November 21, 1934, The New York Yankees absorbed a 19-year old Joe DiMaggio from San Francisco for five other players and $50,000. Influenced by his brother Vince DiMaggio who played for San Francisco’s Seals, Joe developed a love for baseball which eventually made him drop out of high school at the age of 16 in 1930. 

Baseball Career

On October 1, 1932, Joe made his professional debut after a chat between the team’s manager and his brother to let him join their team. There, Joe served as a replacement for San Francisco’s short spot. His exemplary performance made him outstanding.

The first entire season at the Seals saw Joe placing the team on the map by putting together a hitting streak of 61 consecutive games. It included batting .340 with 28 home runs and .341 and .398 during the subsequent seasons. 

Injured 

Unfortunately, in 1934, Joe suffered a knee injury involving torn ligaments. The injury put his career at risk, but Scout Bill Essick of the major league was convinced that he would fully recover. After passing a physical exam, Joe DiMaggio was sold to the New York Yankees for $50,000 and 5 other players. 

Lasting Legacy

Although Joe was, without doubt, talented, his work ethic made a significant contribution to his sudden rise on November 21, 1934.

His official debut for the Yankees was on May 3, 1936, where he started as a rookie. His participation in the team helped the New York Yankee win a World Series Championship. His remarkable performance in the first four seasons made him the only athlete in the history of North American professional sports to be on the lead in multiple consecutive sessions.