Gaby Sanchez's hometown homer not enough to top Yanks

MIAMI— The home run wasn't devoid of significance, but Gaby Sanchez applied the proper dose of perspective. His second-inning blast off CC Sabathia on Sunday was the first ever in a Marlins Park game between big league clubs — albeit an exhibition.

For the Miami-born and raised Sanchez, his first Grapefruit League homer was not enough for the Marlins to overcome the New York Yankees. They scored two in the ninth for a 10-8 victory in the first of two dress rehearsals before Wednesday's official Marlins Park premier.

"It's always nice to hit a home run," Sanchez said. "It doesn't matter when it is. Being in the new stadium, playing against a major league team and doing it definitely felt good, but it's still spring training."

Hanley Ramirez hit the first Marlins homer in the new park during last month's exhibition against the University of Miami. The following night, Emilio Bonifacio put one over the wall against Florida International.

Sunday's contest didn't have a spring training feel until regulars on both sides began trickling out midway through. The Marlins made 25,000 tickets available, all of which were sold. Monday night's capacity is capped at 30,000.


(sun-sentinel.com)