It's easy to hate on the Yankees if you're not a fan. Heck, I grew up in the west as a SF fan, hating them with a passion, so I can understand why there's bashing and hating going on. They're a winning organization and spend money they make like it was free. That's what successful franchises do for their fans. It could be like the owners of the Cubs, you know-filthy rich and content to just field the team.
When I moved to NY in the late 70s the Yankees were losers. The Bronx was burning and the Yankees were losing. Loved it. I took great pleasure in reading about their struggles every morning in the sports section. Unfortunately, coverage of the west coast in the east is hampered by the time difference and it was hard to follow the Giants regularly. So, with mild curiosity I began following the Yankees' rebirth.
Buck Showalter righted the ship and passed the torch to Joe Torre. Joe Torre? Who was he? Then this kid named Jeter showed up. He was fun to watch and the Yankees started back on the winning track. They were a mortal team, not connected to past glories, and a new fan was born in myself. I could give a hoot about the first 21 WS rings they have but the last 6 are mine to enjoy remembering. Along with 2 perfect games and countless moments like Aaron Boone's tater, Tino Martinez' dramatic blasts and of course, Mariano.
There will be more. Maybe not this year but the nice thing about being a Yankee fan is knowing they'll be back next year. And the year after that. They ain't dead yet but there's these ugly bigass birds circling above, waiting for the carrion. Let's hope they get to dine on Tigers. ;-)