On July 13, 2010, the New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner passed away in Tampa, Florida at the age of 80. He made an impact to millions of people(negative and positive) but I even got teary eyed as I watched Regis Philbin announce it at the end of his show. I love the Yankees and anyone that knows me knows that. They were as crappy as the dirt on the bottom of my shoe when I was child but I didn't care. I would watch them on the then MSG network and hate the Boston Red Sox, of course.
George Steinbrenner bought the Yankees for about $10 million back in the 70s. Can you believe that? $8 milli? That is the estimate on a player's salary nowadays. The Yankees are not only a nationally recognized team, but a worldwide brand. Steinbrenner ultimately made the team who they are today. Say what you will but it's true. Say whatever you want about the Yankees(they shouldn't always win, they're salary is too much, blah, blah, blah) because whether you love them or hate them, you are giving them more publicity,therefore, giving them more money in the bank. During interleague play, the Yankees may play the Pirates in Pittsburgh and believe me, that would be the most ticketed game purchased all season.
George Steinbrenner was born in Ohio and went to Williams College to study English Literature (whowouldathunkit) and run track like his father. His joined his family's shipping business but he never lost his interest in sports. With that shipping business, he definitely banked. How else do you think he bought the Yankees? So now he is trying to reform the Yankees to the dynasty they once were. The Bronx Bombers won 2 early championships then didn't see the playoffs for 13 years. In 1990, he paid an admitted gambler 40 G's for damaging info on Dave Winfield. SMH. He was then banned from MLB but later reinstated him in 1993. Fast forward to 1996, rookie Derek Jeter and then unknown closer Mariano Rivera were 2 of the dynamic team to win the championship. Since then they clinch the playoffs every season and always strive to win. "I keep telling my guys, 'Always remember that winning is everything,'" Steinbrenner said in a 2005 interview. "It's a way of life."
The pressure of the pinstripes may lead some to crack (Randy Johnson) but to play for the Yankees, the world's most recognizable sports franchise is something you would want to consider for your MLB career (hello Johnny Damon). Of course being a die hard fan is something to be proud of too :)
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