07/09/2024

10 Best Yogi Berra Quotes

Few athletes in the history of sports have left as indelible a mark on America's Pastime as Yogi Berra. Known for his remarkable career as a Major League Baseball catcher, coach, and manager, Yogi’s legacy extends far beyond the diamond. He’s equally celebrated for his colorful personality and unforgettable quips, often referred to as “Yogi-isms.”

Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or someone who simply appreciates wit, Yogi Berra's quotes have a way of making you laugh and think at the same time. In this article, the Bat Experts at JustBats curated some of his most famous sayings, along with why they continue to resonate today.

Who was Yogi Berra?

Lawrence Peter Berra was born on May 12th, 1925, in St. Louis, MO. Berra began playing baseball in local American Legion leagues, where he learned to throw and catch. While playing in American Legion, he received the nickname “Yogi” from his friend Jack Maguire. Jack thought Berra resembled a Hindu Yogi whenever he sat around with arms and legs crossed, waiting to bat or after games if they lost. It’s safe to say the nickname stuck.

From that point on, the legend of Yogi Berra began. Yogi played 19 seasons in the MLB; he was an 18-time All-Star and won 10 World Series Championships as a player. He is considered to be one of the greatest catchers to ever play the game and was elected into Cooperstown in 1972. However, with all that being said, Yogi Berra is better known for his unique spin on the English language. The wordsmith dished out some memorable baseball quotes throughout his career, so JustBats takes a look at the ten best.

Do you have a favorite "Yogi-isms" that isn't on the list?

Best Yogi Berra Quotes

"Little League baseball is a very good thing because it keeps the parents off the streets."
"You wouldn't have won if we'd beaten you. "
"Pair up in threes."
"The future ain't what it used to be. " (Yogi later clarified, saying, "I just meant that times are different. Not necessarily better or worse, just different.")
"It's like déjà vu all over again."
"Always go to other people's funerals, otherwise, they won't go to yours."
"It ain’t over till it’s over."
"When you come to a fork in the road, take it."
"You can observe a lot by watching."
"Baseball is ninety percent mental and the other half is physical."

Yogi Berra’s quotes have transcended sports because they encapsulate universal truths wrapped in humor. They resonate with baseball fans and casual observers alike because of their simplicity, charm, and relatability. His words remind us not to take life too seriously while offering nuggets of wisdom that are surprisingly deep.

Berra's impromptu comments are now known as Yogi-isms. Sometimes these Yogi-isms took the form of contradiction, but often with an underlying and powerful message that offered more than just humor, but wisdom. Did we miss your favorite Yogi Berra quote? Follow JustBats on social media and let us know!

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