By Rich Mancuso/ Sports Editor
NYCFC soccer is in a similar situation of two years ago when the Yankees made a run in the postseason for a championship. NYCFC Co-tenants during the season with the Yankees, and with the Bronx Bombers as a part financial owner, will need to shift playoff games to another venue as was in 2016.
Then.the Boys In Blue played an Eastern Conference semi-final game at Citi Field in Queens as arranged with the New York Mets.
Because the Yankees postseason would conflict with any MLS postseason dates, NYCFC clinched the Eastern Conference first seed, the ability to transform the field from baseball to soccer and back to baseball requires time.
The process for the Yankees grounds crew takes three days or more, as a result time and preparation is a major issue.
In addition, as a source informed the Bronx Chronicle, the Yankee Stadium turf would not be able to handle the abuse. Usually old turf and new are applied each time the field is converted. Also, Major League Baseball has jurisdiction with teams and their venues during the postseason.
A conflict with NYCFC is possible in two weeks. NYCFC is expected to host a first round game and the Yankees could be in the American League Championship Series. If the Yankees advance to the World Series that could take NYCFC out of the Bronx in the event they advance in later rounds for the MLS Cup.
The Yankees open the best of five AL Division Series Friday night in the Bronx against the Minnesota Twins.
Here are the particulars of the venue situation and pricing as released by NYCFC:
After clinching the number 1 seed in the Eastern Conference for the first time in Club history, New York City FC today announced 2019 Playoff pricing and hosting scenarios.
NYCFC will finish atop the Eastern Conference in the regular season boasting a Club record point total of 61 with one game left to play. As a result, the team will have a bye in the first round and will play at home on either October 23 or 24.
While the Eastern Conference Semifinals and potential Eastern Conference Final are scheduled to take place at Yankee Stadium, should the New York Yankees advance to the AL Championship Series, NYCFC’s playoff games could be moved to Citi Field.
See the full playoffs hosting scenarios here.
This Wednesday, October 2, City Members will have their playoff tickets automatically loaded into their account. For all City Member information, click here.
Details for general public sales will be announced in the near future. NYCFC fans who are looking to gain priority access to the playoffs and save additional money on tickets can become a City Member, here.
Sporting Director Claudio Reyna said:“We’re extremely proud of the team’s achievement this season and finishing top of the Eastern Conference will provide us with a great platform as we enter our fourth consecutive playoff campaign. Should Yankee Stadium be unavailable, we feel extremely comfortable playing our games at Citi Field which has proven to be an excellent alternative venue for the Club.”
“We played a pivotal Decision Day game there in 2017 with our fans providing the same electric atmosphere we’re used to at Yankee Stadium and know they will do the same come playoff time.”
New York City FC CEO Brad Sims said:“This season has been incredible and we are excited to kick off our playoff campaign. We’re also happy for our partners at the New York Yankees for having a fantastic season, and while we recognize their success could relocate our playoff games and is not ideal for our fans, we’re extremely confident that Citi Field would provide us with the home field advantage needed.
“On behalf of myself and the entire Club I want to thank our fans for their incredible loyalty, passion and support throughout the season.”
For more information on ticket and premium seating options for the MLS Cup Playoffs please call 855-77-NYCFC or email FanServices@nycfc.com
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