The New York Yankees and Ira Riklis

At long last, spring is here once again! Spring training that is. Yankees fans like Ira Riklis love the possibilities inherent in a new season as the Hot Stovepipe League gives way to the Grapefruit League. Yankees pitchers and catchers are already at camp, working out at their practice facilities in Tampa. They’ll be joined tomorrow by the positions players and the team will have its first full workout in a few days. The first game, with the Pirates, will be played just a week after that.

For fans, it’s also the time to think about getting tickets. Die-hard fans, especially those living in Florida, are likely to head to Tampa to take in a few games there at Steinbrenner Field. Long-time fans will feel right at home, since the dimensions of the field precisely mimic that of the old Yankee Stadium. But now’s also the time to make plans to attend regular season games at the new Yankees Stadium. Ira Riklis was most impressed with the new stadium, especially the very pricey, but very, very nice, Legend’s Suite section. The new field, with all the latest amenities and technologies, still captures the spirit of the older stadium that served the team for so many years.

Baseball’s always been a game that’s mixed skill and strategy along with a dose of superstition and ritual. One reflection of that—as dedicated fans like Ira Riklis know—was Yankees manager Joe Girardi’s decision to pick 27 as his jersey number when he joined the club in late 2007. The move was symbolic of his dedication to leading the team to their 27th World Championship. While it would be a stretch to say that the number played a role in the team’s championship season last year, it was certainly a constant visual reminder of the team’s goal.

For the 2010 season, the team has the same goal—make it to the playoffs and win the World Series. Only the number has changed. This year, Ira Riklis’ Bronx Bombers are going for their 28th championship. And to symbolize that goal, Girardi’s changing his jersey number to 28. He made the move only after first checking with new outfielder Curtis Granderson, who’s worn that number in the past. Granderson was happy to give it up—at least for now—if it will help the team. “Worst-case scenario,” he said, “if we win, I can get No. 28 next year.” Fans hope he will get his number back in 2011, while Girardi changes to 29.