George Steinbrenner, 80, has died from heart attack




The New York Yankees have confirmed that owner George Steinbrenner is dead, at the age of 80.

The New York Daily News, citing a Yankees team source, said Steinbrenner died at about 6:30 a.m. ET today in Florida after suffering a massive heart attack last night.

Words to remember Steinbrenner by

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A family statement said: "It is with profound sadness that the family of George M. Steinbrenner III announces his passing. He passed away this morning in Tampa, Fla., at age 80."

WABC reported Steinbrenner suffered a massive heart attack last night and was rushed to St. Joseph's hospital in Tampa.

Steinbrenner last week told the AP he was "feeling good" after spending a couple hours in his office at the Yankees' spring training complex.

During Steinbrenner's ownership, the Yankees have won 11 pennants and seven World Series.

The Yankees website is acknowledging that there are reports about Steinbrenner suffering a heart attack, but makes no further comment, as of 9:55 a.m. ET.

When Steinbrenner celebrated his 80th birthday on July 4 at his home in Tampa, he said in a press release through his spokesman Howard J. Rubenstein:

"I want to thank everyone who has sent their good wishes. I am very fortunate to have the love and support of a great family and many, many friends. The Yankees and their fans are a large part of what keeps me going. It means a lot. And I remind everyone that the Fourth of July is also the birthday of our country. We are all lucky to be Americans."

Steinbrenner will be remembered for many things. Among them:

He hired -- and fired -- Billy Martin for five separate managerial stints. He also made a Miller Lite commercial with his favorite manager.

His five-year, $3 million contract with Reggie Jackson in 1977 ushered in the era of big-time free agency money, and proved worth it when Jackson went on to earn the name of Mr. October.

During the 1981 World Series Steinbrenner contended he had broken his hand while punching out two abusive Dodgers fans. Those alleged fans never were found, and it was widely suspected that The Boss had injured himself by punching an elevator wall because he was angry about a Yankees loss.

When Dave Winfield failed to produce significantly for the Yankees, Steinbrenner belittled him as Mr. May. In 1990 he was suspended for life -- but late reinstated -- for hiring someone to dig up dirt on Winfield.

His failing health became obvious at the 2008 All-Star game at Yankee Stadium, when Steinbrenner was driven onto the field in a golf cart. He met with former players and broke into tears. Later that year, he gave control of the team to his sons.



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