There are so many - dating back to fifty years ago when our Little League team would make it's annual (and long awaited) pilgrimage to the Big Ballpark. And I suppose that being here tonight at the last game ever to be played at the Stadium - this has to go to the top of the list. But, it goes beyond that.........

I remember a day in the 1960's when Mickey Mantle was in the twilight of his career and the Yankees held a "Banner Day". Anyone bringing a banner honoring Number 7 was allowed to march on the field past the dugout. Along with a friend, I made a very simple banner out of a bedsheet - anything to get on the field and see The Mick up close. And sure enough, there he was - perched on the dugout steps as we marched by with that broad and endearing Oklahoma smile on his face. That was special..........

And so was a damp dreary September day in 1993 when Jim Abbott took the field. And as the innings rolled by, something arose in the air that suggested that today might be a very special one. Pitching and catching with just one arm, I watched in amazement as a ground ball to the shortstop completed a No Hitter - the only one I've ever witnessed live.

Although this is not a "moment", it's more than worthy of mention. Derek Jeter! More than any other player, there is no one I have enjoyed watching at the Stadium (Don Mattingly is a close second) than him. His work ethic and winning attitude represents (to me) everything that surrounds the mystique of Yankee Tradition. Thank you, Derek!

Don't miss the Main Page - Yankee Stadium - The Final Game. And you also might enjoy some of the Yankee Stadium memories I've collected on The Sounds Of Baseball.

Steve Contursi
West Hurley, New York
E-mail me Here