EXCLUSIVE: Legendary Mets GM Stephen Phillips Details Major Contrasts in Steinbrenner Father-Son Duo’s Leadership

A true MLB expert, Stephen Phillips, has seen it all. During a career that has taken him from Scout to executive to Analyst, the former New York Mets GM is well-experienced. The analyst has left a heavy mark on MLB with his various roles. Recently, Phillips shared his thoughts on the ongoing off-season, his career and other topics in an Exclusive EssentiallySports interview. 

Having been the Mets’ GM for several years, Phillips had his fair share of encounters with the New York Yankees. During his Exclusive interview with EssentiallySports, he opened up on the Bronx Bombers’ George Steinbrenner, revealing how he was different from his son who has taken the reins. 

Unveiling Striking Disparities between “ruthless” George Steinbrenner and “back of the page” Hal Steinbrenner

During his Mets tenure, Stephen Phillips had the chance to meet George Steinbrenner, the New York Yankees’ owner. He has since also had the chance to meet his son and current owner Hal Steinbrenner. During his recent Exclusive EssentiallySports Interview, Phillips opened up on the stark contrast between the father and son. 

The former Mets GM said, “You know, when I was general manager, George Steinbrenner, the father, was the owner of the team and he was ruthless. I mean he would throw money at players, always believing spend money to make money, spend money to make money and spend money to win.”

He further said, “He also believed that being on the back page of the papers in New York was really important and even if it was for bad things he was okay with it. As long as it brought in excitement for the team.” But according to Phillips, Hal was different.

He opened up on the Yankees’ current owner, saying, “And so, his son Hal Steinbrenner doesn’t really look at it the same way. He runs it more like a business instead of just a thing like a competition to go out there and win. They want to win, but he’s not as ruthless or maybe as reckless as his dad.”

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This is truly a contrast that has left fans wanting the older Steinbrenner back and in charge. In recent years, the Yankees have been criticized for their lack of World Series trophies. What do you think of the differences pointed out by Stephen Phillips? Is that what’s causing the Yankees’ World Series draught?

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