Live Blog: The Steinbrenner Ceremony

The ceremony is over... well done, and a proper tribute to the most famous and polarizing owner in team sports history.

Mariano is kneeling before the monument; David Wells passed by, as did Yogi and Reggie.

They are playing Frank Sinatra's "My Way." Is there a more fitting song? For better or worse, George did it his way, and that is why the Yankees are the most prestigious franchise in sports. 

Mrs. Steinbrenner unveiled the monument, and it is impressive. It is a massive, omnipresent structure, and it ensures that The Boss will continue to be a major part of this organization.

A touching video tribute (loved the picture of George jumping a hurdle); the entire family is riding to Monument Park.  All of the Yankees are leading the processional.  Mattingly and Torre have entered. The ovations for Donnie and Joe are as one would expect; it is clear these fans still have a spot for Torre, and why wouldn't they?

Tino Martinez on The Boss: "The greatest owner in team sports." 

Bud Selig is in the house, escorting George's widow to  home plate. Nice touch. Video tribute about to begin.

So, I will be with you guys all night, from the Steinbrenner pre-game ceremony, to all nine innings (or more) of Yankees- Rays.

The Yankees hold a 1/2 game lead in the AL East, which has become more of a footnote with both teams all but guaranteed of a playoff berth.

Tonight, we have Matt Garza against 23-year-old Ivan Nova. These two hooked up on September 14 in Tampa, an 8-7 Yankees victory that saw Nova last only 4 2/3 innings. Can he rebound tonight at the Stadium against arguably the AL's most balanced lineup?

And Don Mattingly is being interviewed by Kim Jones, sporting a fashionable gray patch beneath his lower lip. 

The festivities are about to begin.  It looks like a packed house. And maybe, just maybe, the pricey seats will be filled tonight. Now, wouldn't that be something?