Lou played for Steinbrenner’s Yankees for 11 seasons in the height of their “Bronx Zoo” era and won two World Series rings; he also managed for Steinbrenner for two and a half seasons. Lou issued this statement in memory and tribute:
↵↵↵“George was like a father figure to me,†said Cubs manager Lou Piniella. “He treated me well, he treated me fair and he gave me a wonderful opportunity to play and manage the game we all love. George will be remembered as one of the most influential and renowned owners of a franchise in sports history. He leaves a legacy of winning and an unwavering passion for success. My wife Anita and I send our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the Steinbrenner family and the Yankees organization. George was very special to me and I loved him.â€
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From Cubs owner Tom Ricketts:
↵↵↵“My family and I are sad to learn of the passing of George Steinbrenner early this morning. He will be truly missed by players, fans and all of Major League Baseball. George will be remembered for the leader he was, the championships he brought into being and his many contributions to America’s pastime. My family and all of Cubs Nation send our condolences to the Steinbrenner family, the Yankees and their fans.”
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From Sox managing general partner Jerry Reinsdorf:
↵↵Reinsdorf, who becomes baseball’s longest-tenured active owner, said, “George Steinbrenner was too complex a person to adequately describe in a short statement, but he was a great friend of mine and he will be missed. His impact on the game cannot be denied.”
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