Score Neukom ouster an error by ownership

Bill Neukom's voice wavered and eyes turned watery Thursday ashe remembered looking over the enormous crowd at the Giants' World Series celebrationonly 10 1/2 months ago and hearing General Manager Brian Sabean saythat the players and coaches could now fully understand thecommunity's deep connection to its baseball team. Sentiment would undoubtedly have gotten the best of Neukom onwhatever day he announced his departure from the managing generalpartner's office. But this ending, made official in a newsconference at AT&T Park, came too soon and too sloppily, withtoo little respect for franchise stability and for Neukom'saccomplishments in the three seasons he ran the club.