Joe Torre managed the New York Yankees for 12 seasons and led them to ten AL East titles, six American League pennants and four World Series titles. Yet, there is no recognition for Torre around the new Yankee Stadium and it has broadcaster Tim McCarver up in arms.
During the Yankees’ 10-5 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday, McCarver voiced his displeasure with the way the Yankees organization has failed to honor Torre upon his departure, comparing their treatment to that of despotic leaders during World War II.
McCarver said that the Yankees have "airbrushed" Torre’s legacy, just like despotic leaders in Russia and Germany used to airbrush generals out of pictures after they shot and killed them.
"They have airbrushed his legacy," McCarver said. "I mean, there’s no sign of Joe Torre at the Stadium. And that’s ridiculous. I don’t understand it."
With a career record of 1173-767 with the Bronx Bombers, Torre brought them to the postseason every season that he managed the team. This enabled him to sustain a 12-year career with the Yankees despite owner George Steinbrenner’s tendency to hire and fire managers at the drop of a hat.
Named "Manager of the Decade" by The Sporting News in September 2009, Torre parted ways with the club in October 2007 after a contract dispute.
He has since become manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers and released a book in 2009 titled The Yankee Years that chronicled his experiences in a Yankee uniform.
According to The Sporting News, it remains to be seen what, if any, punishment McCarver will receive for his controversial comments.
