First of all, I am not a Yankees fan. But, having recently just moved out of New York state for the first time in my life, I have spent my entire life around Yankee fans, media coverage and all other paraphernalia. So, though I don't root for them, I can talk Yankee baseball with the best of them. That's why I couldn't help but watch the final game at Yankee Stadium tonight. From the all-time great Yankees taking the field, to Babe Ruth's daughter throwing out the first pitch, it was really an amazing spectacle. I had goosebumps, which, for a late regular season matchup between the Yankees and Baltimore Orioles, is pretty uncommon. This night had the feeling of an all-star game and a World Series game, rolled into one. It was pretty unique, and it I couldn't help but think of why. It didn't take me too long to figure out.

Tonight was essentially the closing of Yankee Stadium. And the reason it had such an effect on me was simple: I never thought I would see the day. I never thought " The House That Ruth Built" would be replaced. I realize we are in the age of sports as big business, and new stadiums are popping up season after season with companies plastered all over them. And obviously I have known this night was coming for a few years now. But that didn't make it any less depressing tonight. The purist in me truly believed Yankee Stadium was one of the untouchables. Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Lambeau Field, even Soldier Field. Home stadiums that you will forever associate with their respective teams. The thought of replacing them is pure blasphemy. My pervading thought is, why can't they just renovate these lengendary venues? Fenway did it by adding seats up top of the Monster. Soldier Field had serious renovations done a few years ago. It just seems like a crime to me to not try to keep these sports landmarks intact.

I realize that the Yankees are doing all they can to ease this transition. They are keeping the name " Yankee Stadium," which is essential. Can you imagine the Yankees playing at " American Express Field" or something else along those dreadful lines? They are also transporting Monument Park to the stadium, placing it out in center field. So, at least they have those positives. But, at least to me (and I'm sure I'm not alone in thinking this), it won't be the same.

I hope I never see the Red Sox, Cubs, Packers and Bears never replace their home fields. Sports is about history and legacy. Some of it needs to be preserved.

Oh, and for the record, I am an Arizona Diamondbacks fan. Two and a half games behind L.A. with seven to play. I'm not even worried...