AT ISSUE
“Boss” Steinbrenner becomes “Boring George”
What: Instead of firing managers, Yankees owner George Steinbrenner issues memos – which the New York media devour and spit up into on-air teases or large-point headlines.
Background: After buying the Yankees before the 1973 season, Steinbrenner made 18 managerial changes in his first 18 seasons. But there have been just two Yankees managers the past 14 years – Buck Showalter (four) and Joe Torre (10).
Klis’ take: I’ve got a new name for “Boss” Steinbrenner – “Boring George.” It’s clear that on the eve of his 75th birthday, Steinbrenner has lost his fastball. Gotham thought heads would roll after the Yanks’ monumental 3-0 collapse to the hated Red Sox last October. All it got was a Steinbrenner press statement. After a slow start in April, Steinbrenner issued a “blistering” release (as commonly described by the New York media), that said, “Enough is enough. I’m bitterly disappointed.” Oooh. On Monday, Steinbrenner’s release said, “It’s certainly up to Joe.” If Steinbrenner finally does take action, it will likely make a scapegoat of revered pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre. Billy Martin must be rolling in his grave.
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WHAT TO WATCH THIS WEEK
The 64 all-star selections
What: With the exception of the 32nd player from each league, Major League Baseball will announce its all-star rosters. Fans voted in 17 starters – eight position players for the National League, nine, including the DH, for the American League. Players, coaches and managers voted on 33 reserves and pitching staffs. NL manager Tony La Russa will pick seven reserves for his team; AL manager Terry Francona will pick five for the AL. The 32nd all-star player from each league will be determined by Internet ballot.
When: The all-star selection show will be televised at 5 p.m. tonight on ESPN. The 32nd man ballot will feature five players from each league and three days of voting.
Why: With home-field advantage in the World Series at stake, the underdog NL is overdue for a win. How long has it been since the NL won? From the 1996 all-star rosters, 31 players have since retired, including the late Ken Caminiti. He homered in the NL’s 6-0 victory at Philadelphia’s Veterans Stadium, which has since been demolished.
