Willie Randolph accomplished one of the more challenging feats in recent Yankee history, and it had nothing to do with his bat or glove. In the midst of the team’s most tumultuous stretch, chaos known as the Bronx Zoo, he lasted 13 seasons.

During Randolph’s stay at second base, the Yanks were impatient and impetuous. They fired managers, promoted and demoted coaches and players. But through it all, Randolph was the cornerstone of their success, playing the keystone position.

When Randolph came to the Yanks from Pittsburgh on Dec. 11, 1975 with Ken Brett for Dock Ellis and Doc Medich, the proud club hadn’t finished first since 1964; during his first six seasons in Pinstripes, they won five division championships, four AL pennants, and World Series titles in 1977 and 1978.

“I think I understand the importance of the team concept more than some guys,” said Randolph, who provided the stability that grounded that high-strung club, and the class that symbolized Yankee Pride.

In a clubhouse that included Reggie Jackson, Thurman Munson and Billy Martin, there was always drama. And success.

Randolph scored 90 or more runs four times and finished his career with 1,243 walks and just 675 strikeouts.

He was a Yankee captain and is the third-base coach on the four-time-champion Joe Torre dynasty.