The Yankees are the only team in Major League Baseball that has yet to play a game at home, but that all changes today when they open their brand spankin’ new stadium. The day will be filled with ceremonies featuring the who’s who of Yankee alumni, highlighted by Yogi Berra throwing out the first pitch. Kelly Clarkson will sing the National Anthem (could be worse, trust me), and both the pitching rubber and home plate will be moved to the Yankees Museum in the ballpark after the game. The pre-game ceremonies start just past noon, when the West Point Band will perform in center field. You can find a full schedule of events here.
The Yankees are coming home after two big wins against the defending AL Champs down in Tampa. David Robertson was called up to replce Xavier Nady on the active roster, so the bullpen is in good shape. Brian Bruney may not be available after completely pwning the Rays the last two days, so Damaso Marte looks like the Bridge to Mo today. The last two AL Cy Young Award winners will face off on the mound, with CC Sabathia making his third start with the Bombers against former teammate Cliff Lee. Here’s your lineup:
Derek Jeter, SS
Johnny Damon, LF
Mark Teixeira, 1B
Nick Swisher, RF
Jorge Posada, C
Robinson Cano, 2B
Hideki Matsui, DH
Cody Ransom, 3B
Brett Gardner, CF
And on the mound, number fifty-two, CC Sabathia.
Note: The Yankees named Paul Olden their oxymoronic permanent temporary replacement for Bob Sheppard … Sabathia will be making his first ever start against the Indians today, his long-time former team … MLB.tv’s free coverage will cover all the pre-game ceremonies and the first inning, but that’s it … first pitch is scheduled for 1:08, but given all the pre-game stuff I’m going to say there’s zero chance that will happen. Look for the game to start around 1:20-1:30.
Photo Credit: RAB’s own Ben Kabak