Yankees Owner George Steinbrenner Dies At Age 80

Update 10 a.m.: The Daily News and ESPN are both reporting that Yankees owner George Steinbrenner died this morning. The News says he died at 6:30 a.m. ESPN notes his birthday was on July 4 and that Steinbrenner recently told the AP he was "feeling good."

Update 10:05 a.m.: Here's a statement from the family:

It is with profound sadness that the family of George M. Steinbrenner III announces his passing. He passed away this morning in Tampa, Fla., at age 80.

He was an incredible and charitable man. First and foremost he was devoted to his entire family -- his beloved wife, Joan; his sisters, Susan Norpell and Judy Kamm, his children, Hank, Jennifer Jessica and Hal; and all of his grandchildren.

He was a visionary and a giant in the world of sports. He took a great but struggling franchise and turned it into a champion again.

As it happens, many Yankees are in Anaheim, California tonight for the All-Star Game.

Earlier: According to a Florida TV station, "Multiple sources tell Bay News 9 that New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner has been hospitalized. Bay News 9 has learned that Tampa Fire Rescue responded to a call at Steinbrenner's house, and that someone was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital. There are unconfirmed reports that Steinbrenner was that patient."

Steinbrenner, 80, has been in declining health in recent years—his sons Hal and Hank have been running the Yankees—and rarely attends Yankees games. He was seen during their home opener this past April, when they received their World Series rings. Under Steinbrenner's often tumultuous ownership, the Yankees have won 11 pennants and seven World Series titles.