#5: World Series Sensation

In the 1952 World Series, Mantle hit his first of many Fall Classic home runs, showing he could perform under the brightest lights. That year, he helped the Yankees defeat the Brooklyn Dodgers, beginning a long postseason legacy.

Mantle would appear in 12 World Series throughout his career, winning seven championships—an astonishing feat. He still holds the World Series records for most home runs (18), RBIs (40), runs (42), and total bases (123). October was his time to shine, and he delivered again and again.