University of Pittsburgh student Yarone Zober sat aghast, and stared dumbfoundly while watching the "late-breaking" story unfold on his television: Jim Leyland, Pittsburgh Pirates coach has decided to leave the team at season's end, after a total of 11 seasons. "I couldn't believe it. My little brother and I are probably the Bucs' number one fans. He's the sole reason why our family moved here to Pittsburgh 10 years ago in the first place", said Yarone, while watching Leyland fight back tears during the televised event.
False Hopes
Leyland, who still has four years left on a contract that will pay almost $1 million annually, originally wanted to stay with the Bucs even after being aware of new owner Kevin McClatchy's hollow promises and the new ownership group's being held together by a thread. Leyland apologized for those hopes, calling his premature announcement a "silly emotional mistake".Distrought Fans
Nevertheless, fans aplenty are stricken with shock at Leyland's decision. Jessica Dixon of Shadyside, upon hearing Leyland's press conference, sadly stated "It's a real shame. My mom and I have been Bucs fans ever since I was born, and my mom called me up from Ohio after the news report in tears saying, 'I can't believe it! Jimmy's leaving!' I dunno if the Bucs'll ever be the same again."Visit the OnTV Bulletin Archive.
