Hail, Hal

After 35 years as the Boss, George Steinbrenner has officially ceded control of the New York Yankees to his son Hal, who has been running the financial operations of the team in recent years. 

"I realize it's a great responsibility," Hal said. "My dad is, needless to say, a tough act to follow."

You don't say. Under Steinbrenner, the Yankees won six World Series titles and 10 American League pennants. Steinbrenner, who purchased the team from CBS for $10 million, also turned the Yankees into a billion-dollar empire, with majority interest in a regional cable television network and a food concession company. 

Hal takes over a team in transition. After missing the playoffs for the first time since 1993, the Yankees still have to address some serious holes in their starting rotation, as well as finish up work on their controversial $1.3 billion new Yankee Stadium, before they can get back on track.

As daunting as Hal's mission is, however, he's a much more suitable replacement than his brother, Hank, who seemingly spends his days in Tampa chain smoking Marlboro Reds and running his mouth to reporters from the Associated Press.  

Still, this changing of the guard is significant-- even if somewhat anticipated. For better of for worse, George Steinbrenner was the Yankees. His bluster and deep pockets defined the Bombers' celebrated return to the top. His official departure is a stark reminder of the many uncertainties currently surrounding the team.