They’re World Series Champions, But Are the New York Yankees Good for Baseball?

I make no apologies for the Yankees or being a Yankee fan of over 40 years.

Americans have had a love/hate relationship with winners. Mr. Steinbrenner bought the bargain of the century and returned the team to glory by INVESTING in the team and its future. He paid his workers handsomely and demanded results. There are a few economic lessons there. More companies could invest in their employees.

While many players are superstars, they quickly learn that the team matters more than the individual, thus no name on the jersey. Some players turn down the highest offer for the opportunity to play with a team that is dedicated to being a contender. There are huge risks and huge rewards that go with it. In exchange for big bucks, they have to live under bright lights constantly. Many big names could not perform under those lights. Pro players are constantly on the road, in the tabloids, and every hand is out to take their money.

The largest payroll doesn't guarentee a championship ring. The luxury tax is just one of many mechanisms that baseball has for spreading talent. Pro careers can be short, many kids are fighting for a place on the roster. It is a meritocracy on display.

Kids learn about winning and losing, gracefulness and professionalism in both situations. In the Bronx, big stars are humbled and new stars are made. The core four are human beings that we all wish our kids will look at as heros to emulate. Sure, baseball, a game played by men, has a few black eyes. But it is a splendid game where team and individual performance blend, fathers, sons, mothers, daughters, sister, brothers can share a passion together.

In my family, we are now counting the days till Spring. We will plan family reunions around visiting the Yankees in New York or Seattle, I will continue to send my misguided brother-in-law messages from the Yankee Universe to the Red Sox nation. Casual Fridays in the office will continue to be s display of Blue Pinstripes (very professional) versus Duck Yellow.

Rivalries stir passion. Passion is good for the game. Love us or hate us, you turn out to root for us and against us. Love it.

Leslie of WA 5:53PM November 05, 2009