As a native New Yorker and inveterate Yankee-hater, we feel obligated to say something upon the passing today of George Steinbrenner, the longtime owner of the Bronx Bombers.
As any number of obituaries will surely note, Steinbrenner changed the game of baseball--and, indeed, the world of sports. From practically the moment he bought the Yankees--for the now-laughable amount of $10 million--he understood the role that money, and a willingness to spend it shamelessly, could play in the world of sports. Money was not simply a businessman's goal for Steinbrenner; salaries were not a necessary evil. Money was a weapon, and it has been ever since.
Say what you will about his greed and megalomania, the man was always in it to win. Somewhat admirable at a time when the Texas Rangers file for bankruptcy and teams left and right trade players because they can't afford them--well, admirable until you realize that it was the actions of Steinbrenner and his ilk who made top-notch talent unaffordable.
Ah well. Rest in Peace, Boss. We will miss you. After all, you were no small part of making it acceptable to hate the Yankees.
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