It was expected, but now it's official: the Yankees will rename Legends Field to George M. Steinbrenner Field.

"Speaking on behalf of the entire family, we couldn't be more pleased about the fact that Legends Field will now become George M. Steinbrenner Field," Hank and Hal Steinbrenner said in a statement. "We have been residents of Tampa for over 30 years, and we feel this is a terrific way to honor our father's longstanding philanthropic commitment to Tampa. Our father has always made clear how much he values Tampa's role in playing host to the New York Yankees' spring-training and the Tampa Yankees. The outpouring of community support for this name change has been wonderful to watch, and we're very grateful for the acknowledgement of his achievements and contributions it represents."

Mr. Steinbrenner weighed it, as well. "I am humbled and flattered to have this outstanding and totally unexpected honor conferred on me. I extend my thanks to the Tampa City Council and to the Hillsborough County Commissioners for passing resolutions suggesting and recommending the change," he said. "I also thank my family for supporting the renaming of the stadium and for everything they have done for so many years that helped bring about this great day."

Via ESPN.