Back in January the Yankees and Delta Air Lines signed an 8 year extension. Included in the deal was erecting the Delta logo and name in 14-foot tall letters on the scoreboard. This is the first time the team has agreed with a sponsor on something so large to be displayed, and the first time the Yankee Stadium name isn’t the most prominent thing on top of the stadium. However, if the rumors around Spring Training are true then the Yankee Stadium name might be gone altogether.
Our Andrew Rotondi and Scott Reinen were in Tampa for a few Spring Training games in March and had their press credentials on hand. There were whispers and murmurs around the press box that Hal and Hank might be considering selling the naming rights to the House that George Built. Andrew and Scott were not able to get any face time with Hal, Hank or Brian Cashman to ask about the rumors, but they’ve been mum about the topic anyway.
According to beat writer Bob Watson, Delta is considered to be the front runner for the honor with Bigelow Tea and Casio also in on the bidding. In the 21st century where the majority of stadiums are branded, it was only a matter of time before the Steinbrenner’s decided to make the leap. Anybody associated with the team brushed off Andrew and Scott’s questions, but they were able to speak with a Delta representative they kept seeing around the stadium.
“I have no comments at this time,” Jake Ruppert said. “However, we’re very excited for the opportunity to expand our relationship with the Steinbrenner’s and Yankee organization.”
“Expand our relationship?” How much more could they expand? They already own half the outfield and the Delta 360 suites. What’s left except for the name of the stadium? Take all this with a grain of salt as it is all rumor and speculation at this point, but the beat writers who have been in camp since February seemed convinced it is happening.
“Nobody official has said anything about it, they avoid the questions all together,” A. Vandelay stated. “But it’s been circulating all Spring Training, I wouldn’t be surprised if it happens.”
The New York Yankees at Delta park? Delta Air Lines Stadium? Let’s just pray this is all some sick joke or else the Boss will be rolling over in his grave.
