27.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game."
-Walt Whitman

I believe that my love for baseball began inside the womb. Perhaps it was because my father was watching a double-header whilst my mother was in labor. Perhaps it's because of my Italian ancestry-- that my great-grandparents came through Ellis Island and embraced this pastime with an almost religious fervor. Regardless of the reason, this sport has always been as organic to me as the blood that flows through my veins.

I think the intricacies and subtleties of the game are what appeal most to my intellectual sensibilities. And it is the only sport that produces a unique amalgamation of self-mastery and teamwork that's fine balance is only achieved by those who truly understand it.

In perfect congruence to my reverence for the sport as a whole, is my love for the New York Yankees. In my mind, this team truly personifies the heart of the sport itself. Though I think that there have been some questionable decisions made during the Steinbrenner reign, I cannot discount the genuine, classy and humble players that have had the privilege of donning the crisp, pinstriped uniforms that have become ubiquitous with baseball itself. Legends like Mantle, Ruth, Gehrig, Maris and DiMaggio all contribute to the legacy of this team and of this inimitable game. One of my favorites quotes about the Yankees is simple, and comes from Joe DiMaggio (one of my heroes, by the way):

"I'd like to thank the Good Lord for making me a Yankee."

This year, it was thrilling to watch my team (primarily four of my favorite players of all time) reclaim the World Series title. I have such a soft spot in my heart for Jeter, Mo, Pettitte and Jorge, that I got chills seeing them all hold that hallowed trophy, and all contribute to a great season overall. These four play because they love it. You can see it in their faces... the passion, the drive, the almost-boyish elation. They are the epitome of class and are all what a baseball player should be.

So happy 27, Yankees. Here's to many more.

Pool/Getty Images

(top photo courtesy of Anthony J. Causi/Icon SMI)