Divisional rivals in MLB often act a lot like siblings who cannot stop beating up on one another.
Such has long been the case between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox—two of the most storied franchises in the big leagues with a long history of mutual hatred.
On this note, we bring to your attention a humorous history lesson.
Speaking on the “Dan Patrick Show” Tuesday, former Red Sox first baseman Kevin Millar conveyed a memory that speaks to former Yankees owner George Steinbrenner’s childish side. After Aaron Boone had hit his home run to win Game 7 in the 2003 ALCS, Steinbrenner reportedly flipped the Red Sox a double bird as they left Yankees Stadium in the team bus.
Millar related to Patrick how, at the time, it wasn’t so funny. But now, looking back, “it’s hilarious.”
“You look back on it now, it’s hilarious,” said Millar. “Back then? I think we all wanted to jump out and choke somebody out.”
One can only imagine the look on Steinbrenner’s face when he was flipping them off. Steam must have been coming out of his ears.
Long live team rivalries. May they never die, and may the fire of competition never run cold.
RIP, Mr. Steinbrenner.