#3: He Became a Yankee at 17

Mickey signed with the New York Yankees in 1949 at age 17. Yankees scout Tom Greenwade, who had initially come to see another player, discovered something special in Mickey’s power, speed, and natural ability.

Mantle signed for a $1,500 bonus and a $140-per-month minor league salary. He was quickly sent to the Class-D Independence Yankees, where he hit .313. His humble start would blossom into an 18-year career with one of the most storied franchises in sports history.