The New York Yankees have announced that they will only play Frank Sinatra’s version of the “Theme From New York, New York” after home wins, reverting back to the original custom established by owner George Steinbrenner in 1980. This decision comes after players and staff expressed fatigue from hearing the celebratory song following defeats. The change was implemented after the team’s recent 4-0 spring training loss to Detroit, where they played Sinatra’s 1966 recording of “That’s Life” instead.
The iconic song, originally sung by Liza Minnelli for the 1977 film “New York, New York” and later performed by Sinatra in 1980, has been a staple at Yankee Stadium for decades. The team had previously alternated between the Sinatra version after wins and the Minnelli version after losses, but in recent years, the Sinatra rendition was played after all final outs.
In addition to the change in victory song tradition, the Yankees also recently lifted their ban on beards, which was imposed by Steinbrenner in 1976. This decision was made to avoid any potential obstacles in player recruitment. The team is now allowing players to sport facial hair, a departure from the strict grooming policies of the past.
Overall, these recent changes reflect a modernization of traditions within the Yankees organization under the leadership of Hal Steinbrenner, who took over as controlling owner from his father, George Steinbrenner, in 2008. Fans can expect to hear “New York, New York” only after home wins moving forward, as the team honors its original custom and adapts to the evolving landscape of baseball culture.
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