If You Hate it So Much, Boycott It

In a previous post, I had expressed my disappointment of an allegedly critical book that Joe Torre had written with the help of Sports Illustrated writer Tom Verducci, "The Yankee Years". I had been clear about my opinion that excerpts that were supposedly included which divulged things that Torre only could have observed in the clubhouse or in a meeting firsthand should not have been shared. 

The book comes out today, and Torre will be signing his book at the following locations:

February 3rd at Barnes and Noble on 5th ave. in Manhattan @ 12:30 PM

February 3rd at the Yogi Berra Museum @ 7:00 PM

February 4th at Borders on Broadway in Manhattan @ 1:00 PM

February 4th at Book-Ends in Ridgewood, NJ @ 7:00 PM

For all the hordes of Yankee fans who have expressed their anger on WFAN or ESPN Radio, you have a more productive way of expressing your disapproval.  The reality is that the outpouring of rage on the airwaves (much which I think is a little over the top) doesn't bother Torre one bit.  He's already been on Larry King Live and has expressed his incredulousness at the outcry, and has encouraged people to buy the book and judge it in its entirety.  If you really don't like what Torre's done, the course of action is simple:

• Boycott Joe Torre's book.
  
• Encourage others to boycott Joe Torre's book.

Look, Joe Torre has made plenty of money from managing the Yankees, plus he got a handsome advance for the book.  The residuals he's going to earn with each sold copy isn't going to make a big difference, but think of it as a Yankee fan's way of taking part of the voting process by voting with your wallet. Attend a book signing and fold your arms and glare at him while shaking your head but refuse to plunk down $40 out of principle. You can even cough "turncoat" and "traitor" loudly in his direction until security asks you to leave.

If you think as many other fans do that Torre's done nothing wrong, spend a little money to buy the book (which I hear that controversy aside is a pretty good read) and consider going to a book signing and getting the autograph of someone who I think is a lock Hall of Famer.  Thank Joe for his years of service at the helm of the Yankees, express regret that many fans have turned against him and wish him the best in the upcoming 2009 season.

If you're me, you'll put the book on reserve at the public library and get the best of both worlds.