Yankees complete spring training schedule with victory over the Twins

The Yankees finished the spring training circuit with a 5-3 win against the Minnesota Twins. That victory gave the Bombers a 17-9 record, the best in the Grapefruit League.

Pinstripe Alley will start full recaps on Opening Day. In the meantime, here are three takeaways:

1. James Paxton got hit around a little bit, but still had a fine outing. The left-hander allowed two runs on six hits and a walk in 5.2 innings. He did, however, strike out six batters. That’s a perfectly fine tune-up start for the southpaw. It’s on to the regular season for Big Maple.

2. The Yankees opened the flood gates in the sixth inning. Clint Frazier, up to bat with the bases loaded, inflicted the damage with a well-struck double. That cleared the bases, giving the Bombers a 4-1 lead. Hopefully it propels Frazier into a strong 2019, even at Triple-A. The Yankees sure could use the outfield help.

3. A bunch of old friends made appearances today. Ronald Torreyes, Tyler Austin, and Jake Cave all featured in the Twins’ lineup. The last day of spring training had a first day of school feeling, the kind when you see all of your friends for the first time since summer vacation. Torreyes was a fan favorite during his stay in New York; Austin broke into the big leagues in a monumental way; and Jake Cave was a longtime fixture in the Baby Bombers Recap. Here’s wishing them the best this season.

Up next, the Yankees head to Washington, D.C. for an exhibition game against the Nationals. First pitch is scheduled for 5:05 PM and you can stream it on MLB.tv.