Tanaka Throws Bullpen Session

Feb 11, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Masahiro Tanaka during press conference at Yankees Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

While today was rightfully Derek Jeter‘s day to be hounded by fans and the media in Tampa, something that he’s had to deal with his entire career, but unquestionably will have to deal with more than ever this year, there was one other guy who caught the eye of the fans and the media as well. The Yankees’ newest addition, Masahiro Tanaka, drew a rather large crowd of spectators as he threw a 23-pitch bullpen session, his first as a Yankee.

The guy he threw it to, catcher Francisco Cervelli, described it as “60 percent.” But Cervelli also correctly pointed out that you can’t tell anything from a bullpen session. Cervelli also expressed excitement. “When you see those kinds of numbers, that is ridiculous,” Cervelli said. “24-0, that is ridiculous. A 1-point something [ERA]? We know this is the big leagues. They all come and show what kind of pitcher they are. Every time we face [Yu] Darvish, it is hard to hit that guy. I think hitters say the same thing about [Hiroki] Kuroda. It is going to be fun. I hope he wins more than 20.”

Jeter also told a swarm of reporters today that he is sticking to his decision to retire following the season. When asked, he added that he has gotten an opportunity to speak briefly with Tanaka, and described him as a “good guy.” While at this point there’s no telling what to expect from either one, so far, everything said about the two this offseason has been positive. There’s no question a huge part of the success of the Yankees in 2014 will be dictated by the performance of Jeter and Tanaka, and both seem ready and up for the challenge to help bring home championship number 28.

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