On March 8, 1999, former New York Yankees great Joe DiMaggio dies after a much-publicized battle with lung cancer. The baseball legend and American icon was 84. Born in Martinez, California, DiMaggio arrived in the major leagues at the age of 21. He batted .323 in his first season and helped the Yankees to the 1936 World Championship. DiMaggio’s rookie performance served as an indicator of future success, both for him and the Yankees. During his 13-year career, the “Yankee Clipper” participated in 10 World Series, with the Yankees winning the World Championship nine times. In 1941, DiMaggio won the MVP Award when he compiled a major league record 56-game hitting streak. After his playing days, DiMaggio gained added fame by serving as a national spokesman for “Mr. Coffee.”