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New York Yankees
Overall: 90
Title track: T7
Ownership: 54
Coaching: T47
Players: 67
Fan relations: 76
Affordability: 117
Stadium experience: 79
Bang for the buck: 113
Change from last year: -4
The Yankees pride themselves on being the "most successful franchise in sports history," but they've never been among the top finishers in these standings -- in fact, they've been in the bottom half of our franchise rankings every year since 2008, thanks in large part to those crazy-expensive prices. Regardless, finishing 90th this year -- worst since 2009, before they won their last title -- won't go over too well at 161st in the Bronx.
What's good
The Yankees did finish seventh in title track, 40 points higher than in any other category. Sure, seven World Series appearances in 20 years makes a difference, but it's also that many more are expected, as always. The thing about the Yankees, even in the post-Boss era with a more budget-conscious Hal Steinbrenner running the ship, is that they always have the means to bring a championship home. They are trying to be smarter and younger these days, but they always -- and probably will always -- invest to win. Fans voted them fourth in all of sports (second in baseball) in "willing to pay to attract quality players and coaches."
What's bad
Of course, all that spending money has to come from somewhere. It's often from the fans, which helps explain why the Bombers are second worst in MLB (117th overall) in affordability. Spending $100 or more on a single ticket is not uncommon -- the average ticket price runs $51.55, second only to the Red Sox (and only by 79 cents) -- and the really good seats can go for up to 10 times more than that. Parking is the most expensive in the league, as is a souvenir ball cap, meaning that a game including a ticket, concessions and merchandise can set you back more than $75. Still, 40,000 fans per game seem able to afford the House Ruthless (that would be George Steinbrenner) Built, which is just fine with the brass.
What's new
Based on the 17-point drop in the ownership category, fans might be getting frustrated with the younger Steinbrenner, who has let six years go by without a title -- unthinkable during the later years of his father's tenure. The good news, though, is the Yankees may be playoff-bound in 2015, and they have dreams of a new Core Four emerging from their farm system. Dellin Betances is already playing Mariano Rivera's part. Luis Severino could be the next Andy Pettitte. First baseman Greg Bird could be a Jorge Posada-type hitter, while 6-foot-7, 275-pound outfield prospect Aaron Judge possesses the leadership -- and the smile -- to be a potential captain in the mold of Derek Jeter. Of course, if that plan doesn't work, the Yankees can always turn back to the wallet, which guarantees they'll stay relevant and, more years than not, successful.
Next: Oakland Athletics | Full rankings