Billy Crystal “Signs With The Yankees”
Posted on March 13, 2008
Filed Under News, Sports |
Billy Crystal has signed a minor league contract with the New York Yankees. Since Crystal has been such a huge fan of the boys in pinstripes all his life, the Yankees have given him a very sweet birthday present;
A chance to play in an exhibition game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Crystal was a favorite of former Yankees manager Joe Torre and became something of a pinstripe mascot, once keeping them loose by taking infield with them before a World Series game.
Crystal signed a one-day minor league contract when he arrived at Legends Field, met with Girardi and then walked directly to his locker. Yankees prospect Mark Melancon previously occupied the cubicle.
“It’s beyond belief,” Crystal said. “But I didn’t want to come in and step on anyone’s toes. People have to get ready for the season.”
Crystal was the third person in the clubhouse wearing No. 60. The number also belongs to special pitching instructor Rich Monteleone and young infielder Cody Ransom, who will switch to No. 67 for the Pirates game.
In the majors, players often give some sort of gift — maybe a Rolex — to someone who yields their number.
“We’re in negotiations,” Ransom said.
Commissioner Bud Selig approved this appearance and the Pirates sounded fine with Crystal’s guest shot.
“He’s been a big ambassador for baseball,” Pittsburgh manager John Russell said. “It’s a kid’s game at heart and he has loved it since he was a kid. I have no qualms about it whatsoever.”
I think its nice to give him this present and Crystal has obviously been working on his hitting, but I have some reservations about this stunt.
What about that minor league player who Crystal is replacing for that game?
Spring Training is about making the coaches notice you and taking advantage of the chances you get.
This is one less chance that player will get to get brought up to the “Big Leagues” or at least make the minor league roster.
So while I appreciate the New York Yankees trying to honor one of their most ardent fans. I think about that player that may not get a chance to play because of this publicity stunt.
Your thoughts may vary of course.
-Thai
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2 Responses to “Billy Crystal “Signs With The Yankees””
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You’re such an evil hatemonger!
isn’t he though
you got mail EMB (and Hi Thai)