George Steinbrenner and Senator Ted Kennedy shared a friendship, united by their differing viewpoints on the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry.
On Thursday, the Yankees owner released the following statement on the loss of his friend through Howard Rubenstein :
“Ted Kennedy and I were friendly for many years and I was honored to have him as a guest on my farm in Florida. Of course we talked baseball. He was a die-hard Red Sox fan. That never stood in the way of our friendship. It was a good-natured rivalry. He understood competition and winning but he also he had a great sense of humor and sportsmanship. Our relationship was probably stronger because we were on opposing sides in sports, but still respected and admired each other.
“What impressed me most about Ted Kennedy was his commitment and never-quit attitude. He was focused on using his position to help those who needed it the most, even against great odds. He was a warrior in that. And you had to admire the courage and strength he displayed throughout his life right up until the end. He’ll really be missed.”