The Polo Grounds Lease: Giants Inform Yankees

Name: The Polo Grounds Lease: Giants Inform Yankees
Start: 1920-05-14
Location: Unspecified

The Ending of an Era for the New York Yankees

The year 1920 marked a significant turning point for Major League Baseball in America, particularly for the New York Yankees and the New York Giants. At this time, the Yankees were thriving, having recently signed the legendary slugger Babe Ruth, which skyrocketed their popularity. However, the Giants, having grown weary of sharing their home stadium, the Polo Grounds, made a momentous decision that would change the landscape of baseball.

Giants' Decision on the Polo Grounds

On a fateful day in 1920, the New York Giants officially informed the Yankees that they would not be renewing the lease for the Polo Grounds. This decision came about as tensions mounted between the two teams, primarily due to the Giants' desire to reclaim the stadium as their exclusive home.

Polo Grounds as a Historic Venue

The Polo Grounds, located in Upper Manhattan, had been a vital venue for baseball since the 19th century. It was not just a home ground for the Giants but also hosted the Yankees since 1913. The ground was well-known for its unique layout and was the stage for some of baseball's greatest moments. The Giants' decision to end the lease meant the Yankees had to find a new home, which would ultimately lead to the construction of Yankee Stadium.

Impact of the Lease Termination on Baseball

The termination of the lease had profound effects on both franchises and the sport. The Yankees not only lost their shared venue but also faced the challenge of securing their own identity in the bustling baseball scene of New York.

Yankees' Search for a New Home

Following this announcement, the Yankees began their quest for a new stadium. George Herman Ruth, better known as Babe Ruth, had drawn so much attention and fans to the team, amplifying the need for a larger venue. The eventual success of the Yankees, coupled with their decision to build Yankee Stadium that opened in 1923, became a huge turning point in sports history.

Giants' Shift to Exclusivity

With the Yankees gone, the Giants could focus on creating a stronghold at the Polo Grounds. This decision allowed them to establish a command over baseball in New York during the 1920s and solidify their fanbase as they fought to retain their dominance during this era.

Fun Fact

The Polo Grounds and Babe Ruth's Home Runs

Interestingly, the Polo Grounds became the site where Babe Ruth hit his famous 60th home run in 1927, becoming an iconic moment in baseball history. Although he was primarily a Yankee, the legendary stadium played an essential role in his career.