Combined with Russians' traditional uneasiness about the approach of winter, this risks public panic, which could sweep away Mr Yeltsin, Mr Chernomyrdin, and who knows what else besides.
Airline analysts doubt that the financial impact of Hurricane Irene will approach that of the winter storms, unless the airport facilities are heavily damaged.
Morris figures it can make a case by highlighting Rodriguez's strong points, like his well-known work ethic and his move to ditch agent Scott Boras from last winter's contentious contract negotiations with the Yankees, choosing to approach the club himself.