New York won the World Series in 2009, but that memory fades a bit more with each postseason flameout.

WSJ: Gardenhire, Girardi, Manuel facing the pressure

Of course, baseball's recent ruling class isn't yet willing to surrender, even if an Eastern Division team hasn't made the World Series since 2009.

WSJ: L.A.'s New Stars: The Angels and the Dodgers

Burnett and first baseman Mark Teixeira to lead them to a World Series title in 2009, the Yanks are not a shoo-in to capture the 2010 championship.

FORBES: Competitive Balance Between Yanks, Rays Will Change In 2011