The Yankees were back down at the minor league complex for Spring Training today and here are a few news and notes for you to get you caught back up:
Ivan Nova and Bruce Billings threw live batting practice early this morning to hitters in Tampa today. Nova faced Gary Sanchez and Billings pitched to Peter O'Brien. The Yankees four starters all threw side bullpen sessions today including Masahiro Tanaka, CC Sabathia, and Hiroki Kuroda.
Brendan Ryan is expecting a lot of boos this season when he comes in to replace the retiring Derek Jeter. At least they aren't booing you because you suck Brendan, always look on the bright side.
Chad Jennings asked a Yankees talent evaluator about some of the talent he has seen thus far and Chris Leroux of all people is getting rave reviews. His fastball has shown "impressive life" and is drawing comparisons to AJ Burnett without as much velocity. With AJ being my favorite pitcher of all time you know I like these comparisons and just became an immediate Leroux fan.
Another thanks to Chad Jennings for the pitchers side session list which also includes a video of Masahiro Tanak throwing his bullpen session next to Hiroki Kuroda:
Today’s sides:
CC Sabathia (to Austin Romine)
Masahiro Tanaka (to John Ryan Murphy)
Hiroki Kuroda (to Brian McCann)
David Herndon (to Francisco Cervelli)
CC Sabathia (to Austin Romine)
Masahiro Tanaka (to John Ryan Murphy)
Hiroki Kuroda (to Brian McCann)
David Herndon (to Francisco Cervelli)
· Among the listed guest instructors for this year: Willie Randolph, David Wells, Andy Pettitte, Jorge Posada, Hideki Matsui, Reggie Jackson, Ron Guidry, Goose Gossage