The Yankees will officially rename Legends Field in Tampa, Fla., their spring training facility to “George M. Steinbrenner Field†during a pregame ceremony on Thursday, March 27, prior to a 1:15 p.m. game vs. the Pirates.
During the on-field ceremony, the Steinbrenner family will unveil new scoreboard signage in left field with the Stadium’s new moniker.
The ceremony will feature a video presentation congratulating George Steinbrenner, as well as a flyover by Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and Tampa Police Department helicopters.
Joan Steinbrenner will throw out the game’s ceremonial first pitch, representing the Steinbrenner family. Feb. 14, Hank and Hal Steinbrenner announced that the Yankees would rename Legends Field to “George M. Steinbrenner Field,†following two unanimous resolutions supporting the change by the Hillsborough County Commission and the Tampa City Council.
“I am humbled and flattered to have this outstanding and totally unexpected honor conferred on me,†George Steinbrenner said when the renaming was announced. “I extend my thanks to the Tampa City Council and to the Hillsborough County Commissioners for passing resolutions suggesting and recommending the change. I also thank my family for supporting the renaming of the stadium and for everything they have done for so many years that helped bring about this great day.â€
The resolution by the Tampa City Council, passed Feb. 7, endorses the naming of Legends Field after George M. Steinbrenner by citing his many charitable donations on behalf of youth activities, hospitals and the arts.
Among these contributions, the founding of The Gold Shield Foundation, which insures that the families of police officers and firemen killed in the line of duty receive early financial assistance and are guaranteed a tuition-free college education, is singled out as an especially significant endeavor. The resolution also recognizes that the Yankees owner has stepped forward at critical times to help influence and improve the community.