Lupica on Steinbrenner's All-Star Game Appearance

Yesterday, larger-than-life Yankees owner George Steinbrenner made a rare public appearance and presented the baseballs for the ceremonial first pitches at last night's All-Star Game. There's video of his appearance above--he was driven onto the field in a golf cart, was warmly greeted by Yankee greats like Yogi Berra, Goose Gossage, Reggie Jackson, and Whitey Ford, and seemed to be crying.

Mike Lupica analyzes The Boss's first visit to the stadium since opening day, "For these few moments Tuesday night, he was what he always wanted to be, from the very first day. The old man, as frail as he looked, was the biggest guy in town."

Steinbrenner had also invited former Mets manager Willie Randolph as his guest to the game. Steinbrenner spokesman Howard Rubenstein said, "George never walked away from the friendship he had with Willie. George has said he's a terrific guy and he wanted him to be part of this great moment at Yankee Stadium."