Even if it's only in a preseason game, and even if it's only against the Pirates, Billy Crystal will realize his lifelong dream of playing for the Yankees. The team announced Monday it had signed him to a one-day minor-league contract. Publicity stunt? Sure. But as far as the Yankees, who will send him to the field Thursday, see it, a harmless one.
Crystal, who played baseball for Long Beach High School (Long Island) and has an impeccable resume as a Yankees fan, will wear #60 on the field and turn 60 the day after his appearance. He directed 61*, a film about the historic home-run race in 1961 between Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle. In a statement released by the team, he said he knew "it will be tougher than the Broadway Softball League." Let's hope so! Joe Girardi noted one way it will be harder, "He's going to have to run after practice, because I don't think Thursday is a scheduled off-day for running."
His top comparison may be Garth Brooks, who made spring training appearances in three separate years, the first coming in 1999 with the Mets, but he was 37 at the time. If you're thinking Crystal should spend his time helping out the Knicks, think again. He's a Los Angeles Clippers fan.
Photo of Billy Crystal throwing out the ceremonial first pitch on May 29, 2005 by AP/Bill Kostroun
