Bob Sheppard 1978 - Billy Martin to Return as Manager Speech, 7/29/1978

[Fitfirefighter]

I can vouch that the video is wrong, but the audio is authentic. My grandfather took me to this game. It was Old-Timers Day. The sky was a brilliant blue, the grass was greener than ever, and it was about 85 degrees. The perfect day for baseball in The Bronx.

[kisscactus]

If I'm correct, Martin returned as manager for his second stint with the Yankees in 1979, then he was fired after the season. Dick Howser managed the Yanks in 1980.

I'm not questioning the validity of the video. I just wonder how the whole Steinbrenner-Martin craziness played out for Sheppard to oddly announce he'd be managing in a year and a half later!

[jln55]

@kisscactus You're correct. The original plan was 1980, but Bob Lemon wasn't going too well, and George brought Billy in earlier than planned. Then Billy got into more trouble after the '79 season and was fired. In 1980 the A's hired Billy.

[Gossage54]

@jln55 Ah Billy and getting into trouble. Like PB&J. The ying and yang of the 77 and 78 Yanks w Billy and Lemon. If Billy hadn't gotten canned in 78 the Yanks IMO would never have had the comeback, Billy got results wherever he went that's a fact and he and George had that love hate relationship of a toxic boyfriend/girlfriend that won't let go. But Billy was so volatile he couldn't stay in one place for too long though he obviously kept coming back to NY 5 times.

[beanxxxx]

been yankee fan since 1974 and i remember that day. it was the loudest ovation i ever heard and still is. i think the ovation went on for 5 minutes.

[rxpro19]

the footage is from opening day 76....the audio is correct

[wonglee2424]

RIP both Billy and Bob