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Sweeny: Yankees-Red Sox Rivalry Takes Back Seat To Grace After Boston Bombings

By Sweeny Murti
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The Rivalry took a back seat to humanity and compassion Tuesday when the Yankees played the Diamondbacks in the first game here since the tragic events on Patriots' Day in Boston.

It was hard to miss the signs that something bad had occurred. Flags were lowered to half-staff and there was a noticeable police presence in the building. And given that the Yankees were playing the Arizona Diamondbacks, it was at least oddly similar to the 2001 World Series, played at old Yankee Stadium just over a month after 9/11.

PHOTOS: Yankee Stadium's Tribute To Boston Tragedy

It has been a few years since the Yankees were part of the Patriots' Day festivities in Boston, but Kevin Youkilis is certainly familiar, having played in Boston for most of his major league career.

Youkilis shared his thoughts upon learning the news of what happened at the Boston Marathon on Monday:

Kevin Youkilis

Youkilis was glad to know that all his family and friends were accounted for and alright. And he was saddened by the tragedy that fell so many others, on what is supposed to be a day of celebration in one of America's most historic cities:

Kevin Youkilis

The Yankees, like every other team, go on with the business of entertaining us in an environment that should feel safe to everyone.

We have all likely been guilty of taking advantage of that over the years, and the players are no different:

Kevin Youkilis

It will probably feel normal again at some point, maybe even soon. For now, as the stories continue to be told, it all feels tragic.

Follow Sweeny Murti on Twitter @YankeesWFAN.

New York stands with Boston
This Yankees, BoSox image of support has been making its way around on social media. (credit: Facebook)
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