During his lifetime, George Steinbrenner was one of the most frequently quoted, frequently interviewed, and equally mocked and revered figures in sports. Long story short, he was the original superstar sports owner and a master manipulator of both the media and his players. He also won like crazy. Since purchasing the New York Yankees for $8.7 million dollars, Steinbrenner turned the decayed franchise back into the centerpiece of the entire sporting world, with an international reach, a television network, and billions of dollars in both value and revenue. Steinbrenner passed away at a Tampa, Florida, hospital yesterday at age 80.
Between this and the death of Bob Sheppard on Sunday, that’s two big losses for the Yankee family in as many days. The best thing for both men, no doubt, was the championship the Yankees claimed last year, the 27th for the team and George’s 7th title as Yankee owner. It will also be his last.
Here’s to The Boss.
Image: Deadspin
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