New York Yankees defying George Steinbrenner’s legacy
By David Hill
It is clear that these are not the New York Yankees from George Steinbrenner’s day. There has been a restraint when it comes to spending, with more of a focus on the bottom line and profitability than adding the best players in free agency. That focus could be seen this past offseason, when the Yankees decided to bring in Corey Kluber and Jameson Taillon instead of retaining Masahiro Tanaka and adding other top free agents.
Although the Yankees have continued to be competitive, they have not had the same degree of success. The Yankees have not been in the World Series since 2009, a disappointing streak for a franchise that measures success in terms of championships. Perhaps it is not a coincidence that the franchise has not won a World Series since King George passed away on July 13, 2010.
New York Yankees defying George Steinbrenner’s legacy
One can easily imagine that he would not stand for the Yankees’ performance. Their lineup, excluding Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge, has been a disaster. While the pitching staff has been solid, the rotation could use some help. This would be far from a finished product for The Boss.
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Things would obviously be changing. Heads would be rolling, as hitting coach Marcus Thames would be given the axe. Scoring two runs or fewer in 21 games already this season would be unacceptable, especially given the stars throughout the Yankees’ lineup.
But the roster would likely be much different. J.T. Realmuto would have been a realistic option in free agency, as he would not be outbid for a player he felt was necessary. The Yankees may actually have infield depth, instead of scraping by with the likes of Rougned Odor as a starting second baseman.
For George Steinbrenner, winning was the only acceptable outcome. He may not have been the same fiery owner who would fire managers after 16 games, but he would not stand for what the team has become these days either.
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The New York Yankees appear to be more concerned with profit margins than championships. If George Steinbrenner were alive today, it would kill him to see this.