With 27 World Series championships and 40 American League pennants, the New York Yankees are the most decorated and prestigious team in baseball.

But how did the Yankees manage to win all of these pennant races, World Series titles and the reputation of being the best club in baseball?

The answer to that question is simple. The Yankees not only have some of baseball’s greatest players on their team, but historical legends as well.

As with many other teams, the Yankees have had their share of awful seasons and embarrassing losses. It is players like Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle who have helped the Yankees out of their most difficult situations and on a path to pennant and World Series wins.

These players, along with many others, are the reason the Yankees have earned the reputation of being the greatest team in baseball history.

Here is a list of the 20 greatest hitters in New York Yankees history. Their contributions have not only been helpful, but legendary. 

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