Don't Hate Damn Yankees

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The greatest franchise lived up to and proved the moniker once again.  For decades the powerful Yankees dominated and ruled the American League.  They became hated by fans in nearly every other big league city, in particular, Kansas City which became the unofficial top farm club for New York.  They were so hated that a broadway show was produced based on that loathing.

Anyway, after a ten year re-adjustment Reggie Jcksonand Catfish Hunter brought the Bronx Bombers back to the top only to see their owners greed and meddling cost the club it's place on top for another 15 years.

But the Yankees are back.  And they've been back for 15 years.  The same 15 years that Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada and (during championship seasons) Andy Pettitte have formed the nucleus of the team.  The Boss kept the core together and what a core it has been.

Despite the lack of outrageous batting averages and ridiculous power and gold gloves Derek Jeter may be the best shortstop ever.  When you consider clutch play and winning he has to be in the conversation.

Jorge Posada has been a remarkable catcher over the years providing offense and leadership as a constant.

Andy Pettitte has been the perfect complementary starter...the good lefty to work behind the staff ace.  And the big stage has never had an effect on him.

Finally, Rivera is the best closer of all-time.  And as Randy will talk about on the Fastlane today, he may be better than that!

Each championship has it's heroes.  Hidecki Matsui deserves the MVP.  But don't lose sight of the fact that this is a team game and when continuity and consistency count, and they do, then keeping a core of greatness together is paramount.  Don't hate the Yankees...until next year when they come to your town.