New York: What Happened To The Pinstripes?

The New York Yankees are obviously the most prestigious and successful professional sports team in the history of sports, that cannot be argued.

Besides from 26 World Series wins, the Yankees have contributed great players like Joe DiMaggio, Roger Maris, Mickey Mantle, Thurman Munson, Derek Jeter, and Mariano Rivera to the great game of baseball, as well as up-and-coming stars Robinson Cano, Joba Chamberlain, and Phil Hughes.

Since Free Agency has been implemented into Major League Baseball, the Yankees have been a prime destination for top dollar free agents to sign big deals with, such as Reggie Jackson, Jason Giambi, Hideki Matsui, Roger Clemens, Johnny Damon, and Mike Mussina.

However, in this age of Free Agency, especially since the year 2000, the Yankees have not enjoyed the success that they had grown accustomed to.

Currently the Yankees seem to be throwing away their money to self-absorbed players who are not good team mates. Some prime examples: Alex Rodriguez, who is infamous for hitting home runs in non-clutch situations and whose only motivation may be to become home run king; Jason Giambi, who was busted somewhat recently for using performance-enhancing drugs; and Roger Clemens, who typically waits until May or June to 'come out of retirement' to sign a lavish one-year deal, making more money than Nick Markakis, Hanley Ramirez, and Tim Lincecum combined.

Even more alarming, is the lack of playoff success with these teams. In 2008, the Yankees missed October play entirely, after getting bounced out of the ALDS in 2007,  2006, and 2002, and losing in the ALCS in 2004 and 2005. The Yankees have also lost in the 2003 and 2001 World Series, after starting off the millenium by winning the 2000 World Series.

Is this lack of success causing big free agents to dislike the idea of donning the pinstripes?

CC Sabathia has been offered a $140 million contract from the Yankees, although he has yet to accept or decline the deal. This is making it obvious that he is waiting for another offer.

The Yankees also appear interested in top dollar free agents Derek Lowe, AJ Burnett, Mark Teixeira, and possibly Andy Pettite.

However, the Yankees have first baseman/outfielder Nick Swisher and first baseman/right fielder Xavier Nady blocking a possible Teixeira at first base. Designated hitter appears to be blocked by Hideki Matsui, also.

So, Yankees fans, what do you think, is the power in the pinstripes diminishing?

*this article was written from the point of view of a Red Sox fan, I tried to throw all bias out the window for this article*