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No. 27: one for The Boss

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 7, 2009

Whether or not you are a Yankees' fan, it was hard not to be moved by the team's dedication of their 27th World Series title to George Steinbrenner, the team owner and Tampa resident.

Steinbrenner, 79, has been ailing, and he watched the Series finale with his wife at his Palma Ceia home. A few years ago, the irrepressible "Boss" would have been in the thick of the post-game festivities at the new Yankee Stadium.

But while he may not be as involved as he once was, there was no question this team reflected the attention to detail, demand for excellence and fierce determination that Steinbrenner brought to the Yankees.

Many people forget that when Steinbrenner took over the team in 1973, the fabled franchise had become a loser. He quickly changed that, and under his watch the Yankees have won seven World Series and 11 pennants.

He spent a lot of money, clashed with managers and players and spoke his mind. The New York media loved to lampoon him. But he won - and always gave the fans their money's worth.

When he moved the Yankees' spring training to Tampa in 1996, he insisted on fan-friendly amenities and made sure all seats had a good view. The stadium has been a boon to the local economy.

Tampa residents also know Steinbrenner as a kind and generous man who has helped countless organizations and needy individuals, usually without fanfare.

If there was a good cause, Steinbrenner got involved. And that didn't mean simply writing a check. He would give out food, work with troubled kids and once even drove a relief truck to South Florida after Hurricane Andrew.

There may be legions of baseball fans who love to hate the Yankees. But even they should concede Steinbrenner has built a championship operation committed to winning and helping others.

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