ASA MOURNS THE LOSS OF GEORGE STEINBRENNER

NOW MORE THAN EVER HE DESERVES TO BE
ENSHRINED IN COOPERSTOWN

July 14, 2010 - The American Sportscasters Association (ASA), mourns the loss of New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner. He was a good friend and strong supporter of the broadcasting profession.

Lou Schwartz, President of the ASA stated, “George Steinbrenner was truly a dynamic and an extraordinarily competitive owner whose great passion was for baseball, the Yankees and winning no matter what the financial cost. Without Steinbrenner, there probably would not be a Reggie Jackson or a Goose Gossage and numerous others inducted into the Hall of Fame. Steinbrenner was also an extremely generous and charitable person who contributed to many causes without fanfare. He will be irreplacable. He is a legendary owner who truly belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame.”

In December of 2008, the ASA polled its members regarding whether or not Steinbrenner belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame and the response was overwhelmingly in favor of his admittance, with over 80% supporting his entrance.

A sampling of the responses are as follows:

Bob Costas - NBC Sports: “Despite controversies, it is undeniable that Steinbrenner had a major impact on baseball history. He should be in for some of the same reasons Marvin Miller should be. You need not agree with them all the time to appreciate their contributions and significance.”

Gary Carter - Baseball Hall of Famer: “Mr. Steinbrenner is definitely deserving of induction into the Hall of Fame for how he changed baseball with his free agency signings. He changed the complexion of the game and the value of the game. He also has kept up the great tradition the Yankees have had with their 26 World Championships. He’s a lot like Al Davis of the Oakland Raiders.”

Jack Whitaker - ASA Hall of Famer & formerly of ABC Sports: “Yes, because he added to the rich history of the Yankees and produced winners.”

Schwartz concluded, “When the Veterans Committee meets again in the Fall of 2011 to vote on Executives and Pioneers, Mr. Steinbrenner must be selected as a member of the Hall of Fame class of 2012.”