Elston Howard was the first African-American to play for the New York Yankees in 1955. Elston was also the first African-American to win the AL MVP Stock Photo - Alamy

80 Bobby Shantz Photos & High Res Pictures - Getty Images

Elston Howard, catcher for the New York Yankees is pictured at spring training camp, March 1961 (AP Photo Stock Photo - Alamy

On this day in Yankees history - Elston Howard the Yanks first African American player, Bronx Pinstripes

New York Yankees' Elston Howard, center, is greeted at the plate by Bill Kowron, left, and an unidentified Yankee bat boy, right, as he scores his fourth-inning home run during the first

All star new york yankees hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy

New york yankees hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy

Let's Remember Elston Howard and the Yankees' Historic Day, April 14, 1955

Elston Howard was a star baseball player with the New York Yankees in the 1950s and 1960s Stock Photo - Alamy

Vintage new york yankees hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy

Elston Howard was a star baseball player with the New York Yankees in the 1950s and 1960s Stock Photo - Alamy

80 Bobby Shantz Photos & High Res Pictures - Getty Images

Yankees icon Elston Howard's playing ability is often overlooked - Pinstripe Alley