Rick came up with the Twins in 1969 and was traded to the Yankees in 1971 where he played behind Thurman Munson for a few years.
In 1976, the Orioles and Yankees made a huge deal. New York needed some veterans and Baltimore needed some young talent.
Rick became the O's starting catcher and one of the most popular men ever to play with the franchise. He played for the O's in the 1979 and 1983 World Series. Dempsey was super in the 1983 World Series and earned the MVP.
His numbers don't tell the whole story. Rick was superb behind the plate and a great clutch hitter. He was also a team leader and the clubhouse comedian.
Dempsey is one of my all time favorite players.