Meaning: The quote "You kind of took it for granted around the Yankees that there was always going to be baseball in October" by Whitey Ford, a former professional baseball player, reflects the culture of excellence and high expectations that surrounded the New York Yankees during Ford's tenure with the team. The quote captures the confidence and sense of inevitability that came with being part of one of the most successful and storied franchises in Major League Baseball (MLB) history.

Whitey Ford, also known as "The Chairman of the Board," enjoyed a remarkable career as a pitcher for the New York Yankees from 1950 to 1967. During his time with the team, the Yankees were a dominant force in the league, winning numerous pennants and World Series titles. Ford's quote speaks to the mindset of a team that was accustomed to success and had a strong belief in its ability to reach the postseason year after year.

The phrase "took it for granted" suggests that the expectation of reaching the postseason had become so ingrained in the culture of the Yankees that it was almost a given. This speaks to the confidence and winning mentality that permeated the organization, as well as the pressure to perform at a consistently high level. The quote also implies that the anticipation of playing baseball in October had become routine, highlighting the team's exceptional track record and the standard of excellence that was expected of its players.

For the Yankees, October baseball was synonymous with the pursuit of World Series glory. The team's success in the postseason had become a defining characteristic, and the quote reflects the sense of entitlement and confidence that came with being part of an organization with such a rich history of championship success. The expectation of playing in October was not viewed as a lofty goal or a distant dream but rather as an integral part of the Yankees' identity and legacy.

Furthermore, Ford's quote alludes to the pressure that comes with maintaining a tradition of excellence. The Yankees' storied history and the weight of their past achievements placed a significant burden on players to live up to the expectations associated with the pinstripes. The quote captures the sense of obligation and responsibility that accompanied wearing the Yankees uniform, as well as the relentless pursuit of postseason success that was ingrained in the team's ethos.

In conclusion, Whitey Ford's quote offers a glimpse into the mindset and culture of the New York Yankees during an era of unparalleled success. It reflects the unwavering confidence, high expectations, and sense of entitlement that surrounded the organization, as well as the pressure to continue a tradition of excellence. The quote serves as a reminder of the Yankees' dominance in the world of baseball and the relentless pursuit of postseason glory that defined the team during Ford's illustrious career.