Steinbrenner: Let's Win It For The Fans

Steve Serby was able to land an exclusive interview with George Steinbrenner, via his spokesman Howard Rubenstein. It's nice to hear from the man even if it was through Rubenstein. He talks about how thrilled he was to see Mariano close out the Angels, how happy he is with the job his sons have done since handing power over to them, the new stadium, and how frustrated he's been these past nine years without a championship. I suggest going over to the Post and checking out the whole thing, but here are three questions and answers I wanted to share with you.

Q: The players want to win the Yankees’ 27th world championship for you — how does that make you feel?

A: It’s a nice sentiment, and I appreciate it. But as far as I’m concerned, we always want to win it for the fans. If we win it, I’ll dedicate it to them. And that’s the main motivation I want for our entire organization.

Q: How badly do you burn to win that 27th championship?

A: It’s a fire that’s always there, and it burns hotter the closer you get. I know our fans are consumed with it and that makes me want even more.

Q: If you were to give these Yankees a pregame pep talk — what would you tell them?

A: You had a great year, now finish like Yankees. Think of those 50,000 people in the stands and everybody watching on TV. They are the most loyal and dedicated fans in sports. We built you guys a beautiful new stadium. We are counting on you to break it in the right way — by making it the home of the 2009 world champions. It’s a long off season, so leave it all on the field and give it your best.

He may not be the same old George, but he's still got it.