Yankees' George Steinbrenner Dies At 80
The man who rebuilt the New York Yankees into a sports empire -- through a combination of bluster and big bucks -- has died. George Steinbrenner was 80 years old. A person close to Steinbrenner says he had a heart attack and was taken to a hospital in Tampa, Fla., where he died this morning.
For more than 30 years, he lived up to his billing as "the Boss'' -- a nickname he earned and clearly enjoyed as he ruled with an iron fist. He was known for feuds -- including his firings of manager Billy Martin, and his clash with Yankees great Yogi Berra.
Steinbrenner, who celebrated his birthday July 4, had been in fragile health for several years. His sons Hal and Hank took over the operation of the family businesses.
Flags were immediately lowered to half-staff at Steinbrenner Field, the Yankees' spring training complex. The Yankees say many employees there were in tears.
The death comes two days after the team's beloved public-address announcer Bob Sheppard died at 99.
