OK, actually I kind of like the Yankees and George Steinbrenner, and I really despise Boston fans in any sport. By far, they are the most obnoxious and pathetic sports fans in the world. Today, we have this fallout from the big A Rod deal: MLB - Henry and Steinbrenner exchange verbal shots

Of particular note, this quote from Red Sox owner John Henry:

``There is really no other fair way to deal with a team that has gone so insanely far beyond the resources of all the other teams.''

So apparently, going insanely far beyond the resources of most other teams, as the Red Sox do, is OK. But going beyond ALL other teams ... that's just wrong. I guess Henry's proposal will be to cap spending at Boston's annual team salary.

Second, I am reminded that, "THERE'S NO CRYING IN BASEBALL!" Earlier in the off-season Henry would have been all too happy to shoot the moon and take his team's payroll far beyond all but a handful of teams to sign A Rod. He couldn't meet the Player's Union demands and now A Rod is wearing pinstripes.

Incidentally, Henry alienated Nomar Garciaparra, Boston's stud shortstop in residence in this process. Steinbrenner on the other hand, did this deal without touching the Yankees' own ace in the hole, Derek Jeter. I have a feeling that this says a lot more about what makes these teams tick and their results than we realize.

Finally: John Henry, you are an owner. You are part of the trend that has turned free agency into one giant bidding war. You had a hand in selling baseball's soul to the players' union. You are partially culpable for the most recent labor agreement which did nothing to address MLB's most serious threats. Well, not until the players hooked you up by failing their drug test that is.

Don't blame George Steinbrenner. He's playing within the rules.

You were fine with the system earlier this winter when the Red Sox were loading up on free agents that other teams couldn't afford. One deal doesn't go your way and now you're whining to the press! For God's sake, it's a man's game ... act like a man! If you really don't like it, remember this at the next labor agreement. Wipe away your tears, grow some stones, and stand up to the MLBPA.

Originally posted at Terrible Swift Word.