Yankees Honor 9/11 Victims in Annual Tradition
On September 11, as part of a touching yearly ritual, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone, along with pitchers Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón, paid tribute to the victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks by placing a wreath at the memorial in Monument Park. This poignant ceremony reflects the team’s commitment to honoring the memories of those lost that fateful day.
A Meaningful Tribute
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Boone shared, “Really meaningful. I’ve gotten to do that now a few times when we’ve been here. So to get to walk out there with Gerrit and Carlos and just really, I mean, take in an amazing monument… it hits home.”
The memorial not only pays homage to the Twin Towers and the Pentagon but also honors first responders, highlighting the bravery and sacrifices made during the crisis.
Celebrating a Victory Amidst Remembrance
In addition to the tribute, the Yankees celebrated a 9-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers, which keeps them three games behind the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East standings. The game not only served as a reminder of resilience but also illustrated the team’s fighting spirit.
Upcoming Matchup: Yankees vs. Mets
Next year marks the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, and the Yankees will face off against the New York Mets on September 11 in the Bronx, continuing the tradition of honoring those affected by the tragedy. Their previous meeting on the 20th anniversary in 2021 at Citi Field left a lasting impression.
Boone recalled the emotions from the 2021 game: “To feel that kind of raw emotion… you see people’s tears in their eyes, that kind of buzz, but silence, too. You feel that.”
Commemorative Actions
Besides the wreath-laying ceremony, the Yankees paid tribute through their uniforms by wearing caps representing New York’s first responder agencies during the game. Firefighter Regina Wilson of the FDNY performed the national anthem, further enhancing the day’s significance.
Upcoming Savannah Bananas Games
As the Yankees head to Boston for a three-game series, the Stadium will host the Savannah Bananas for games on Saturday and Sunday. Boone expressed his admiration for the Bananas’ unique style of play and their ability to draw large crowds, indicating the evolving landscape of baseball entertainment.
Who’s Pitching Next?
For fans eager to catch more Yankees action, Luis Gil is scheduled to start Friday’s opener against the Red Sox at Fenway Park, followed by Max Fried and Will Warren over the weekend.
This annual observance by the Yankees stands as a reminder of the importance of remembrance while also fostering a sense of community and resilience. For more information on the Yankees and their upcoming games, visit MLB.com.