Aug. 20, 1964. The Yankees had just lost, 5-0, and swept in a four-game series by the Chicago White Sox, The team bus was delayed taking off for O’Hare Airport, so Linz pulled out his new harmonica and he took out the “learn by the numbers,’’ pamphlet, and started playing.
Berra, in his first year as manager, turned around from the front seat and yelled toward the back of the bus: “Shove that harmonica up your...”
“I wasn't sure what he said,’’ Linz said. “So I turned to Mickey Mantle, and asked, “What did he say, Mickey?’
“Mickey told me, “Play it louder.’’’
At which point, Yogi slapped the harmonica out of Linz’s hand.
The Yankees went on to win the pennant. M<any say that was the turning point.