Thursday, May 23, 2013

Model Sports Franchises

Just received the latest issue of Sports Illustrated and the cover States that the St.Louis Cardinals are baseball's model franchise. Have not read the article yet...have to get through the next book for this blog! :) Anyway, it got me thinking about model franchises and what makes a franchise "a model" one. I see three important characteristics. 1) Consistent results on the field. This doesn't mean championships every year or even playoffs. But the team will be a factor year in and year out. 2) Stability in the owner's box, coaching staff and roster. The best example of this is the NBA's model franchise, the San Antonio Spurs. When was the last time you heard that the Spurs were for sale, fired the GM, or let go of the coach? And how long has the core of Duncan, Ginobli, and Parker been there? Stability at its finest. 3) Players want to play for the team for reasons other than money. Yes, today's sports landscape rarely allows players to stay with one team for long. But when players want to sign with a team like the New England Patriots, how can you not take notice and try to see what they are doing right? Those three teams, along with the NHL's Detroit Red Wings, make up the model franchises for each sport. Do you agree? If not, which franchises are they? And why? Let's have some fun with this topic.
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6 comments:

  1. BrandonMay 23, 2013 at 7:19 PM

    Despite the deserved undying hatred of them, you gotta give SOME respect to the Packers in that area.

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    Replies
    1. Lance SmithMay 23, 2013 at 7:23 PM

      Yes...and maybe the Steelers too if it were not for the current QB. But the Pats are still the best all around franchise

      Delete
    2. Lance SmithMay 23, 2013 at 7:27 PM

      Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment

      Delete
  2. EricMay 24, 2013 at 3:45 AM

    I also think that although you don't want to hear it, the Yankees have become a model franchise. Since the late 90s, the Yankees have had only two managers and they have won 5 titles and players really want to play there. They have dramatically changed from the team that used to fire at least two managers a year

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    Replies
    1. Lance SmithMay 24, 2013 at 7:40 AM

      I would place the Yankees near the top, but not #1...and this would be only since 1995. Just like with the Steelers...the antics of one player tarnished the image of the franchise...I am sure you know who I mean. While he didn't get in trouble with the law, he still brings unwanted attention.

      Delete
    2. Lance SmithMay 24, 2013 at 7:41 AM

      Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment

      Delete

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