BRONX, N.Y. — A popular name has been bandied about when it comes to the future leadership of the New York Yankees. The name is also one from the past. He’s a fan favorite. His name is Buck Showalter.
For Yankee fans who may not remember, Showalter rocketed through the system, managing first place clubs at Oneonta, Ft. Lauderdale, and Albany-Colonie from 1985 to 1989. He guided the Double-A Albany-Colonie Yankees to an Eastern League title in 1989. Showalter was added to the New York coaching staff in 1990 and eventually became manager in 1992.
During his tenure, he led the club to the best record in the AL before the 1994 strike, earning AL Manager of the Year. In 1995, he guided the team back to the postseason as the AL Wild Card.
Along with general manager Gene “Stick” Michael, Showalter helped change the culture in the Bronx. His knowledge of the farm system helped develop some of the top Yankee prospects as well.
If you’ve listened to him on the YES Network, you know Buck knows his baseball. He has the Yankee pedigree to restore the “Yankee way.” Whether it’s in the role of the general manager or manager, his name should be in the mix for 2021.
He’s helped lay the foundation for a dynasty in New York and a championship team in Arizona. Plus, he brought Baltimore back from the wilderness to the postseason.
Showalter knows New York, he’s media savvy and prepares like crazy. He can be stern but also isn’t inflexible either. He can show this club and maybe even reshape the team to reflect what it means to be a Yankee and to earn your pinstripes.
He’s the kind of guy who can even act as a hybrid general manager/manager, figuring out which players fit. Plus, he can uncover winning players who can help put the Yankees over the top.
It would be quite intriguing to see what Showalter could do with the most talent he’s ever had the opportunity of working with.
Showalter wouldn’t be overwhelmed on the field or in the front office. For a team that has one won one World Series in 20 years, they could use some refocusing, a reality check, and a kick in the pants.
Bringing in Showalter’s knowledge and baseball sense would help restore the confidence of the Bronx faithful.
