Game According to Syd: Theories and Teachings of Baseball's Leading Innovator - Hardcover

With the help of former Sport Magazine editor Shapiro, Thrift, the mastermind behind the rebuilding of the moribund Pittsburgh Pirates franchise, reflects on the role of the general manager in baseball, concentrating on the evaluation, procurement, and instruction of players. He maintains that success comes to those who are innovative, an uncommon trait in a sport dominated by antiquated training methods and an overabundance of marketing and promotional gimmicks. He also recounts his brief stint working under New York Yankees' owner George Steinbrenner, which resulted in a clash of styles and Thrift's departure from the team. Thrift has firm views regarding the function of this often misunderstood position, and offers fresh insight into the game's front-office operations.
- William H. Hoffman, Ft. Myers-Lee Cty. P.L., Fla.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Thrift, a former scout, scouting director and general manager with Kansas City, Oakland, Pittsburgh and the Yankees, offers advice and opinions on playing and managing baseball. "The average fan will find the first half of the book too technical, but when the authors get down to such aspects of the general manager's job as making trades, it is absorbing," claimed PW.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.