Yankees, Army to play exhibition game
Photo credit: Jim McIsaac | Robinson Cano and the New York Yankees will visit West Point for an exhibition game against Army on March 30. (Oct. 3, 2012)
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The Army baseball team will get a taste of the big leagues in March, when the Yankees travel to West Point for an exhibition game.
The Bronx Bombers and Black Knights will square off at Doubleday Field on March 30 in the Yankees' final tuneup before beginning the regular season April 1.
"It's a tremendous honor for our organization to play at West Point, which is one of our country's most historically significant institutions," Hal Steinbrenner, the Yankees' managing general partner, said in a statement. "The Yankees have always held the nation's servicemen and servicewomen in the highest regard. Playing in this game is our way of showing appreciation for their valor and the sacrifices made by all members of the United States armed forces."
It's not unusual for major league teams to play college or minor league squads during spring training. In fact, Army and the Yankees have played 21 times previously, the last time coming in 1976. The first meeting between the two came in 1927, when the Bronx Bombers were led by their "Muderer's Row" lineup that included Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. The Yankees have never lost to the Black Knights.
"We are thrilled to bring the Yankees back to the United States Military Academy," said Army athletic director Boo Corrigan. "There is a long-standing tradition between these two great institutions. ... This will truly be a unique experience for all the cadets and the entire West Point community."
Ticket information for the game will be available in late February.
