Bomber Bites for March 29th

Mandatory Credit: Chad R. MacDonald.

1. Bullpen Set: Dellin Betances and Vidal Nuno were officially named the final cogs in the Yankee bullpen to start the season. Betances was electric this spring, pitching to an ERA of 0.73, allowing only 1 run in 12 1/3 innings. Nuno, a lefty, gives the Yankees additional versatility in the ‘pen as he can pitch multiple innings. A benefit the Yankees will surely need as they play 13 straight days to open the season.
2. Infield Intrigue: Dean Anna has been officially named to the 25-man roster, but the Yankees have not officially named the final spot on the roster. Both Eduardo Nunez and Yangervis Solarte were told by manager Joe Girardi to report to the major league complex today but not to bring their bags for Houston.  The Yankees will be leaving Florida to start the season in Houston after today’s game. Most likely the two will play in minor or intersquad games over the weekend as the Yankees wait until the last moment to make a decision.
3. Minor League Injury Updates: Manny Banuelos will start the season with High-A Tampa instead of Triple-A Scranton as he continues to rehab from Tommy John surgery.  The Yankees believe he will benefit from the warmer weather early in the season. Also staying in Tampa will be Tyler Austin (wrist), Slade Heathcott (knee), Greg Bird (back) and Jose Campos as they go through Extended Spring Training.
4. Kahnle Makes Rockies: Rule 5 draftee Tommy Kahnle has made the Rockies opening day roster. He pitched exceptionally well in camp, giving up just one run in 9 2/3 innings, but was thought to be on the outside looking in due to the depth of the Colorado bullpen. Kahnle will need to stay on the Rockies big league roster or DL all year or be offered back to the Yankees.
5. Last Grapefruit League Game of 2014: Today will be the Yankees last spring training game of the season. They will take on the Marlins at 1:05 PM at home.  Ivan Nova will take the hill and Jacoby Ellsbury, out with a sore calf since March 14, is scheduled to play. The Yankees certainly think that Ellsbury is ready to play and open the season to risk a setback caused by playing him in a meaningless final spring training game…and those are your Bomber Bites for March 29th!