ATLANTA — This has been the New York Yankees' century, beginning when Babe Ruth donned pinstripes during the roaring '20s and ending with their recent record-setting resurgence.
They established the major league standard for excellence while becoming those "Damn Yankees," dominating opponents during several decade-long runs. Potentially being crowned the team of this decade doesn't do much for the been-there-done-that American League champions, who simply seek another jewel for their crown.
The National League champion Atlanta Braves are focused on the present too, though making history also colors their agenda.
The Braves reluctantly acknowledge they must defeat the tradition-rich Yankees to complete a decade of achievement, capping their unparalleled ride.
The 10-year race finally approaches the finish line tonight in Game 1 of the 95th World Series at Turner Field.
The Yankees and Braves end the '90s on a familiar stage--each hoping to be the best closing act.
"This is good for the Yankees and Braves, and it's great for baseball," Atlanta Manager Bobby Cox said. "I guess if we beat them, we're the team of the decade, but I don't know. Really, it's year to year for me. But I understand the interest in all of this.
"I'm proud our organization is compared in that light, and it's kind of neat because there is so much being said about that. The table has been set, so to speak, and it's pretty good it ended up that way. There were long odds on something like that happening."
Actually, both teams were favored to get here.
The defending World Series champion Yankees have outdistanced the pack, setting records with 24 championships in their previous 35 appearances.
They swept the San Diego Padres last season en route to their second title in three seasons, and set the all-time single-season record with 125 victories.
The Braves also have pushed the bar high, setting a new standard with eight consecutive division championships. They won five pennants and the 1995 Series title against Cleveland. . They also lost to the Yankees in '96.
"Obviously, we want to be the team of the '90s," said Greg Maddux, the four-time Cy Young Award winner scheduled to start Game 2. "Whatever the arguments are that go back and forth, we'd like to be remembered as that team.
"But getting another ring is the main thing. To [be the team of the decade], we have to win. I mean, there's enough pressure just to be in the World Series."
