Don Mattingly, once benched by the Yankees for refusing to cut his hair, is widely called the greatest Yankee never to play in a World Series. An ambidextrous Indiana phenom, he slid to the 19th round of the 1979 draft after his father scared off scouts, then became a superstar.

This episode traces his batting title, 1985 MVP, historic 1987 power feats, a career-altering back injury, cruel timing that wedged him between two Yankee dynasties, Hall of Fame debates, and a long managerial career including an unusual 2026 role.

• Won the 1984 batting title on the season’s final day over Dave Winfield
• Named 1985 AL MVP; hit six grand slams in 1987, the only ones of his career
• Won nine Gold Gloves at first base as back injuries sapped his power
• Number 23 retired by the Yankees despite never winning a World Series
• Named 2026 interim Phillies manager, with son Preston as general manager