Sports Illustrated chose the Yankees' fourth and fifth starter battles as the top story of Spring Training. They call Freddy Garcia and Ivan Nova the favorites but also mention the possibilities of Sergio Mitre and Bartolo Colon -
For as much attention as has already been placed on New York's rotation, it may not be as dire as it looks. Garcia won 12 games for the White Sox last year while making home starts at U.S. Cellular Field -- roughly an equal homer haven as the new Yankee Stadium -- and the Yankees won five of Nova's seven starts, including both that the then 23-year-old made against the division-winning Rays. Those two would, on paper, make the best fits in New York.
I'm looking forward to what Nova can do in a full season.
- Jorge Posada is preparing to be the everyday DH for the first time in his career, but he'll also be ready for emergency catching duties -
Joe Girardi said Posada's catching experience will be an asset he intends to keep "in our back pocket." In a week, when his surgically repaired right knee is ready, Posada will once again strap on the gear to prepare for emergency duty.
Pretty nice to have Posada as the third-string catcher.
- Brian Cashman spoke on the radio about CC Sabathia's impending opt-out clause -
He's earned an opportunity to be vague about what the future's going to bring. Personally, I think he loves it here. Professionally, he's got an opportunity to at least evaluate whatever opportunities come his way.
- George Steinbrenner came close to forcing a trade that would have sent Mariano Rivera and Bob Wickman to Seattle for Felix Fermin in early 1996. The Seattle Times imagines how Mariner history might have been different.
- Russell Martin is wearing no. 55 in Tampa. I predict fan discontent if he brings the number north.
- Johnnette Howard says Joe Girardi should be playing the "underdog card" this season.
- Yankee prospect Hector Noesi, a dark horse to win a rotation spot, is having trouble entering the country due to "visa issues."