Crystal lives out baseball dream

Billy Crystal is one of the Yankees' most well-known fans

Comic actor Billy Crystal has achieved a lifelong dream by playing for the New York Yankees baseball team.

He marked his 60th birthday by opening the batting in an exhibition match in Florida against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The When Harry Met Sally Star, who wore a number 60 shirt in honour of his birthday, had to sign a one-day contract to play in the match.

"It was surreal," Crystal told reporters. "It was great. I wish I was coming back tomorrow."

The star, whose birthday is on Friday, added: "I felt like a baseball player."

He received a standing ovation from the 10,000 fans - including fellow funnyman Robin Williams - at Legends Field, Tampa.

'Intensely good'

But Crystal's efforts could not save the Yankees from a 5-3 defeat.

"I can always say I led off for the New York Yankees," he said.

"That was an amazing feeling. I don't even know how to describe it. It was so intensely good."

Crystal directed and produced 61*, a movie about the successful Yankees side of 1961.

Chance meeting

He said the idea to take part in the match came in a chance meeting with Yankees captain Derek Jeter on holiday in Costa Rica, when he complained about turning 60.

Technically, he remains under contract with the Yankees, but will be released before the new baseball season starts later this month.

He is unlikely to make a comeback, though.

"Not the way my hamstring feels," he said.