Red Sox, Yankees Will Honor Newtown, Conn. Shooting Victims on Opening Day

by Mike Cole on Wed, Mar 20, 2013 at 12:36PM

The Red Sox and Yankees may have a long history of being bitter rivals, but for at least one night, they will come together as one to honor victims of an unspeakable tragedy.

The two teams announced that on Opening Day they will honor the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Conn. A pregame ceremony will honor those who were lost in the shooting, as their names will be shown on the center field scoreboard. The two clubs will also wear a ribbon on their uniforms in honor of the victims.

“On Opening Day, we will reflect upon more important things and play the game to honor the community of Newtown,” Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner said in a statement. “Since the day of the tragedy, our hearts and thoughts have been with those who were affected.”

Red Sox owner John Henry also released a statement speaking to the unity between the two ball clubs when it comes to dealing with this tragedy.

“Months have passed, yet we are still trying to come to grips with this incomprehensible tragedy. As our teams look to face each other on opening day, we will stand united in support of the families affected as we remember and honor those who were lost.”

The two teams will open the season on April 1 at Yankee Stadium, which is just a little more than an hour’s drive from Newtown.