Let’s say around the same time Merlino got out a few yrs ago, would he have had any power to get revenge on Joey. Or would he be the one running scared.

Scarfo sr was as vindictive as they come, and would never let that slide. But he would have been pretty much powerless seeing his guys were mostly still inside

And even IF they were out I doubt they’d still be taking orders and risking another 30 yrs just so Scarfo would feel better. Scarfo in my opinion would have fared no better than Long John had he tried to muscle back his territory.

The only way he survives is if Vic Amuso protects him and puts him under their umbrella