Spring Training Game 32 Wrap-Up: NYY 11 BAL 8

(What up, new guy?  Courtesy of the AP)

Things are winding down in camp.  Guys are making their final pushes for roster spots, spots in the batting order, and pitchers are making their final appearances to get ready for the start of the regular season.  Tuesday night it was CC Sabathia, and last night it was David Phelps who took his turn on the mound for his final ST start.  With Phil Hughes officially set to begin the season on the DL, Phelps will be making the start on April 6th and if last night was any indication, he should be just fine.

Game Notes:

- A pair of Baltimore errors got things started for the Yanks in the top of the 2nd and a pair of 2-out, run-scoring singles by Eduardo Nunez and Lyle Overbay finished it.  Bobby Wilson also chipped in with a ribbie double and when all was said and done the Yanks led 3-0.

- Speaking of Overbay, the newest Yankee was a major factor in last night's game.  He played all 9 innings at first base and went 2-5 with 2 singles at the plate.  Probably safe to say he's going to be on the Opening Day roster.

- That lead held up until the 5th, when Phelps got a little off track and gave up 3 runs of his own.  They were the only runs he allowed on the night, however, and he did strike out 9 batters.  His stuff and command both seem to be right where they were last season.

- 2-run homer for Brennan Boesch in his return to the lineup after missing a few games with a strained rib cage, and a solo shot for Ben Francisco, his third as a Yankee.  Not sure how Francisco fits into New York's plans now, but he has played well since they acquired him.

- Ditto for Thomas Neal, who went 1-3 with a pair of walks, pair of runs scored, and another SB.  He'll be good depth to have in Triple-A.

- Branden Pinder got smacked around in the bottom of the 7th, but Nick Goody and Preston Claiborne each pitched scoreless innings in the 8th and 9th to secure the win.  It was Goody's first ST game after hurting his ankle early, and Claiborne continues to impress.


F*ck Yeahs:

- Francisco: 2-4, 1 HR, 1 R, 1 RBI, 3 LOB.  I didn't expect much from him when he was signed.  Now I'm almost bummed that he'll be gone once roster decisions are made.  What does that say about the state of the Yankees right now?

- Nunez: 2-3, 1 R, 1 RBI, 1 BB, 1 LOB.  Got on base a lot, which allows his speed to become a weapon, and played a clean defensive game at short.  More of this, please.

Oh Nos:

- Pinder: 0.2 IP, 4 H, 4 ER, 1 K, 1 HR.  Tough sledding for the kid, who turned what looked like a blowout into a close game late.  Growing pains.

Next Up:

Hiroki Kuroda is the next in line to make his final spring appearance this afternoon when the Yanks take on the Pirates.  Robinson Cano should be back in the lineup after missing last night's game with a stomach ailment.  No word on Ronnier Mustelier's status.