The re-signing of Brian Cashman is not only a critical move in the structure of the Yankee organization, but also an historic one.  From 1973 to 2005, I can't think of a single instance where a GM or manager would have been re-signed after missing the postseason for the first time after 13 straight appearances. 

Personally, I think Cashman can get things going in the right direction.  However, whether you think so or not isn't the point of this post.  Hal's insistence on Brian coming back shows a commitment to drafting and developing that most Yankee fans have never seen in their lifetime.  I couldn't be more excited.  Though many expected Brian to come back, I would imagine that every GM in the league was curious to see just how committed the Steinbrenners are to this "new" philosophy.  If Brian can't get the job done, we can have confidence that there would be several bright young GMs around the league that would consider coming here.  With the virtually unlimited financial power and the backing and commitment from ownership, this will undoubtedly make the organization appear as THE place to be in the eyes of bright baseball people around the country.