Tuesday Night Lights: Yanks Play First Night Game at New Stadium

NEW YORK – When it comes to the new Yankee Stadium, everything the first few series will be about the ballpark’s “firsts.”

Tuesday night represented another first for the $1.5 billion stadium – its first night game. After postponing Monday's series opener due to rain in what would have been the first night game at the new Yankee Stadium, the Bronx Bombers and the A’s get down to business with Andy Pettitte making his stadium debut tonight.

Tonight also marks the first time Jason Giambi has been back in the Bronx since last season. Giambi donned pinstripes from 2002-08. The 38-year-old signed with Oakland this offseason as a free agent. He addressed the media before the game.

“I gave my heart and soul when I played here,” Giambi said. “There’s no place on the planet like this. I had a lot of ups and downs here, but I grew as a person.”

We’ll see who has a better stadium first, “Dandy Andy” or “the Giambino.”

Speaking of new Yankee Stadium firsts, here’s a few to remember.

Hit
Yankees: Johnny Damon, first single to center on 4/16/09 vs. Cleveland (Home opener).

Home run
Yankees: Jorge Posada, fifth inning, solo home run to center off Cliff Lee on 4/16/09

Win
Opponent: Cleveland’s Cliff Lee on 4/16/09

Error
Yankees: Cody Ransom on 4/16/09 vs. Cleveland (throwing, sixth inning)

Star-Spangled Banner Performer: Kelly Clarkson (Opening Day)

Ceremonial First Pitch: 4/16/09 vs. Cleveland, Yogi Berra

Public Address Announcer: Paul Olden 4/16/09 vs. Cleveland