Yankees Clinch

Today the Yanks clinched............mere mortal status.

For the first time in 13 seasons, the New York Yankees will miss the playoffs.

Ironically, this coincides with the first time the Tampa Bay Rays make the playoffs. The salary spend disparity between the Yanks and Rays is over $150 million.

This sports version redux of David defeating Goliath gives a spark of hope to small market teams like Kansas City and Pittsburgh. Solid scouting and player development in well organized minor leagues combined with solid management can equal success.

Success in small markets is different though from the constant reloading a team like the Yanks effortlessly write checks to do. The Florida Marlins are the case in point here. They've won two World Series which were followed by player loss and fire sales which led them back to their farm development and young talent.

Nonetheless, this season has been a somewhat refreshing power shift in the MLB.

Invite a Yank over to watch the playoffs with you. Make them bring the food though, they can afford it.