Pirates React to the Billy Crystal Signing

From the AP:

The Pirates are not concerned about the possibility of playing comedic foil to Billy Crystal.

The actor will sign a minor-league contract with the New York Yankees on Thursday and play for them that day in an exhibition game against the Pirates at Tampa.”I think it’s great,” Pirates manager John Russell said. “He’s a great baseball fan and a great ambassador for the game. It just goes to show how it’s everybody’s dream to play in the major leagues, and he is no different.

“Left-hander Paul Maholm will be the starting pitcher for the Pirates. While he admits it will be somewhat awkward pitching to Crystal, who turns 60 on Friday, he is not upset by the idea.

“It’s going to be different and hopefully it will be a fun thing,” Maholm said. “The Yankees have a really tough lineup as it is, so (facing Crystal) is one more thing to deal with.”

Maholm then smiled.

“It’s a no-win situation for me,” he said. “I’m supposed to get the guy out. If he gets a hit off me, though, I might to have hang ‘em up after the game.”

Left fielder Jason Bay said he was looking forward to seeing Crystal play, pointing to other celebrities who have seen action in exhibition games in past springs, such as singer Garth Brooks and actor Tom Selleck.

“Baseball is supposed to be fun and it’s going to be a fun thing to see Billy Crystal play,” Bay said. “It will add a little excitement and interest to the game and that’s not a bad thing, especially since it’s only spring training.”

That’s a good reaction by the Pirates. It’s nice to know that they’re seeing this for what it is, although I’m surprised that Crystal will actually step to the plate. I do however feel bad for the guy that’s hitting in front of Billy Crystal tomorrow. What type of lineup protection is that? He better get that bunt down…