Oakland A's to introduce a modern Harvey the Rabbit

The Oakland A's will introduce a modern version of Harvey the Rabbit on Opening Night, Friday, March 30, the team announced today.
 
Harvey the Rabbit was originally introduced in the 1960s in Kansas City, Missouri. Harvey was in the ground near home plate and would pop up throughout the game to deliver baseballs to the home plate umpire. When the A's relocated to Oakland, Harvey the Rabbit was introduced to the Coliseum. He last appeared in 1971.
 
The modern Harvey the Rabbit will be remote-controlled and will maneuver his way to the field to deliver the ceremonial first pitch ball to the umpires.
 
"We are extremely excited to bring Harvey the Rabbit back to the Coliseum," said A's President Dave Kaval. "As we prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary season and honor half a century of rich history in Oakland, we knew those plans had to include Harvey the Rabbit."
 
On Saturday, May 26, when the team honors the Swingin' A's, 15,000 fans will take home a Harvey the Rabbit backpack, presented by Comerica Bank.
 
Photos of the original Harvey the Rabbit can be found on the A's virtual press box, pressbox.athletics.com, in the "Harvey the Rabbit" folder. The folder will be updated on March 30 to include photos and video of the modern Harvey the Rabbit.
Media can get a sneak peak of Harvey the Rabbit at today's media preview event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in The Treehouse at the Coliseum.