The Yankees are playing the Phillies in Tampa tonight, and the game is notable for two very important reasons. First, Derek Jeter is scheduled to play shortstop for the first time since having offseason ankle surgery, and injury that happened five months ago to the day. The Cap’n has already played two games at DH, but now he’ll have to move side-to-side and cover the bag, stuff like that. It’s a big deal given the extent of his injury. I’m not sure how long Joe Girardi plans to play him, but I can’t imagine it would be much more than three or four innings.
Secondly, Andy Pettitte is making his Grapefruit League debut. The veteran left-hander has been throwing bullpens and simulated games on the side, but it’s time to face some opposing hitters and stretch things out for the regular season. He’s probably scheduled for 40 pitches or so, so maybe three innings if things go right. Jeter’s ankle is obvious the top priority tonight, but the Yankees are going to rely on their pitching quite a bit this year. Getting Pettitte back out there is a big first step. Here’s the starting lineup…
- SS Derek Jeter
- LF Ichiro Suzuki
- 3B Kevin Youkilis
- 1B Juan Rivera
- RF Ben Francisco
- DH Matt Diaz
- C Chris Stewart
- CF Melky Mesa
- 2B Gil Velazquez
And on the mound is the former San Jacinto College Gator, Andy Pettitte. No word on tonight’s second stringers, but I like surprises. We’ll find out soon enough. The game is scheduled to start a little after 7pm ET and can be seen on YES and MLB.tv (no local blackout). Enjoy.
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