Yankees celebrate

NEW YORK – The World Series championship flag was raised for the first time at new Yankee Stadium.

The blue-and-white banner was flapping in the breeze Tuesday even before a 15-minute ceremony during which Andy Pettitte, Mariano Rivera, Jorge Posada and captain Derek Jeter received their fifth World Series rings. Hall-of-Famers Yogi Berra and Whitey Ford helped pass them out.

Alex Rodriguez got his first ring, kissed the box it was in and raised it to the crowd.

Hideki Matsui, on hand with the Angels, got the loudest ovation. Trainer Gene Monahan has been undergoing treatment for a serious illness and received a warm welcome.

Owner George Steinbrenner received his ring from Jeter and manager Joe Girardi before the ceremony.