Tuesday, March 11, 2008

The director of "61*" gets a chance at 60



The New York Yankees signed comedian/actor/director Billy Crystal to a one-day contract where he will get to wear those pinstripes in an exhibition game versus the Pittsburgh Pirates this coming Friday (Manila time). Crystal directed the film "61*" about that great home run chase of 1961 between Yankees teammates Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris. Crystal will wear #60 and play in a game right a day before his 60th birthday! How cool a gift is that?

"The Yankees are excited to welcome the newest member of our team known for his humor and wit as well as his undying love for the Yankees," chief operating officer Lonn Trost said.

Yankees manager Joe Girardi, after Monday night's 4-0 win over Cincinnati, said he hasn't determined what position Crystal will play.

"That remains to be seen," Girardi said. "Obviously, it's kind of exciting. Billy Crystal has done a lot for this organization. He's always been a big part of it. Our way of rewarding him, saying thanks for everything that you've done."

"I've been waiting 50 years for this call," Crystal said in a statement released by the team. "I'm overwhelmed by the generosity of the Yankees and commissioner Selig. I know this'll be tougher than the Broadway Softball League, but I'm looking forward to helping the younger players, which by the way is all of them. Oops, I have to go, Scott Boras is on the phone."



This looks to be one special season. Man.... I wish I was there right now.

If you're a baseball fan, you'll love this movie -- 61* which was directed by Bill Crystal. It's too bad there was only a better appreciation for Roger Maris when he hung up his spikes.

Ya go, Rog!

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