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I don't believe we can quantify the value of a clubhouse culture that encourages risk-taking, growth and the opportunity to succeed -- or the opportunity boldly attempt, fail and try again. I don't think it's measurable statistically -- but I do believe that it is _extremely_ important.
I have worked in several different versions of the same specialty field over the last many years, and have seen work-atmosphere variations that were in turn supportive, unreasonable, divided, and again supportive. For me the choice is simple -- I'll take supportive every time.
Regardless of the setting, I endeavor to do the best I can, but, I can tell you -- I am far more personally productive and satisfied in an atmosphere of encouragement, where there is freedom to try new things, and even 'fail with honor' when attempting to reach new and higher goals. Or strike out in a new creative direction.
I suppose it is possible for some 'driven' personalities to maintain a certain standard of excellence at all times in spite of a less-than-adequate climate. I respect that. I strive for that myself. But, I must admit, my own ability to achieve real, lasting, and genuinely meaningful progress is enhanced exponentially when there is an honest compassion and 'togetherness' among those with whom I serve.
I'm not trying to advocate a scenario of laissez-faire, "do whatever the heck you want" regardless of corporate vision or mission. Unity, team play and accountability are all essential. But, in my humble experience, I find those things work best in an atmosphere of respect and mutuality -- where grace is the grease between the gears of the machine.
It seems that Don and Jack understand what it means to function as a team -- and are willing to make the relational investment required to stand or fall together -- while maintaining an expectation of high performance.
My specialty is not baseball. But, from what I can glean from blogs, interviews and the like -- every now and then I wish I could be part of the Mariner's clubhouse. It seems like the kind of place -- with the kind of 'vibe' and values -- in which folks like me can thrive and reach a higher potential than previously known.
Perhaps none of those players Spectator mentioned will blossom.  But, at least, the ground has been tilled, cultivated, fertilized and watered in such a way that any previously untapped or dormant potential should have the best chance to bloom.
I'm looking forward to this season with great anticipation.
*grins*