Yankees get first win, 7-3, over Phillies

Ivan Nova looked great in two perfect innings, hitting the mid-90s with his fastball and generally throwing a sharp curveball for strikes. All six outs were punch-outs and ground-balls, a great sign.

Jesus Montero was very solid behind the plate and had two good ABs in three chances. He had a long AB in which he fouled off many pitches before lining out to third, he then grounded out on one pitch, and later grounded a single between third and short.

Dellin Betances pitched the fifth and truly looked like an ace in the making as he struck out three. He was consistently in the 93-95 mph range and touched 97. His knuckle-curve looked filthy; if he has both of those working, he'll be almost unhittable.

Joe Girardi wasn't quite so adamant about Derek Jeter batting leadoff, but it sure sounds like (during the in-game interview) it's his job to lose. He gave Brett Gardner a shot at the leadoff spot and he excelled: a double and two walks in three PAs. Did you catch that, Joe?

Jorge Vazquez homered for the second time in as many days. If not for Montero, Jorge Posada, Andruw Jones and Eric Chavez, he might have a place to play.

Curtis Granderson hit an opposite field home run. He didn't hit one the opposite way last year. A very encouraging sign.