Yankees sign 10-year-old boy to one-day contract, hang out with him all day

TAMPA, Fla. -- The newest Yankee may be a member of the team for only a day, but he surely made memories for a lifetime.

The team signed 10-year-old Landis Sims, who was born with no hands or lower legs, to a one-day contract. But that was just the beginning of a day that will not soon be forgotten by Sims or any of the players with whom he shared a clubhouse and uniform on Monday.
Sims has a deep connection to the Yankees that dates back to a previous visit two years ago. Manager Joe Girardi raved about the team's opportunity to bring in the 10-year-old middle infielder. It was clear the day might have been as special for the Yankees as for their young guest.

"He was outstanding, just a special kid," Girardi said of Sims, who was represented by Yankees lefty CC Sabathia for the signing of the contract. "He's overcome extraordinary obstacles to be the kid he came to be. That's special for all of us.

"I was very proud how all the players responded to him. That was great to see. ... That's a lesson for all of us."

Sims signed his deal during the team's pre-workout meeting on Monday morning. He chatted with stars like Alex Rodriguez in the clubhouse and proceeded to take batting practice with a group that also included Mark Teixeira and Rodriguez. He made solid contact throughout the session and even sent a well-struck ball right back at the pitcher.