Atlanta Daily World

Howard Seems Certain To Earn Berth With Yankees

BIRMINGHAM Ala. -(ANP)- Elston Howard, the 25-year-old St Louisan who wouldn't give up, has cracked the New York Yankees line-up. That much seemed certain last week as the Yankees went into the home stretch of their spring training drills. Rumors that Howard, who in spring training alternates for the Bombers behind the plate and in the outfield, would become the first member of his race to crack the Yankees' lineup have been floating around for some time. But last week manager Casey Stengel confirmed the reports, praising Elston as a fine all-around player. As to Howard making the Yankees team, Casey said: "I don't know right now where I'll play him. But he's got to be in there some place, even if he just pinch hits. He is a wonderful catcher, I think he's best at that. He throws good and he handles the pitchers well. Of course, a catcher has more to do than almost anybody on the club so if you are working back there and do a good job it shows up."

HOWARD JUBILANT Howard, meanwhile, was quite jubilant about the fact that he has broken the racial barrier which has for years surrounded the Yankees "They tell me I've made the grade and I can't help but feel a little bit choked up about it." he remarked "I am proud." "Anybody would be glad to be a Yankee, but maybe I've got a little extra special reason to be glad," he added That was his way of explaining his delight at being the first Negro to make the squad. Last year Howard trained with the Yankees and was believed by many to be ready for the big times. However, the Yanks sent him to Toronto of the International league for seasoning. But this time it's a different story. "Ole" Casey wants him in the lineup, even if he has to sacrifice one of his five star outfielders The Yanks outfield is now manned by Mickey Mantle. Irv Noren, Enos Slaughter, Hank Bauer and Bob Cerv. Howard batted .330 at Toronto last season.