Gene Michael, the former Major League player, manager and executive best known as the architect of the Yankees' 1990s dynasty, died Thursday of a heart attack, sources told MLB.com's Bryan Hoch and Mark Feinsand. He was 79.
Michael had already spent two decades in baseball when he was named general manager of the Yankees in 1990, the start of a five-year tenure that would define his career. From 1990-95, Michael built the farm system that would help yield four World Series championships in the five years to close out the decade.
After a rainout Wednesday night, Orioles righty Kevin Gausman will attempt to keep his second-half surge intact against the Yankees' lineup on Thursday as the American League East rivals are scheduled to complete their three-game series at Camden Yards.