Yankees vs Twins Game Preview: Phil Hughes Returns To Yankees Stadium In Series Finale

May 27, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Phil Hughes (45) delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Former Yankees’ first round selection Phil Hughes returns to Yankee stadium for the first time since signing with the Twins. Hughes played seven up and down seasons for the Bombers. He struggled mightily in 2011 and again in his final season in 2013.  Hughes went 56-50 with a 4.53 era during his career in NY. Now that Phil has been with the Twins he has  seemed to rejuvenated his career he is a solid 5-1 with a 3.23 era this season.  The Yankees will March youngster Chase Whitley out to the mound. Whitley has been pretty impressive so far in his career posting a 2.57 era in his three starts, but he is still seeking his first win.  The Twins were held to 4 singles against Tanaka yesterday and Whitley will look to capatilize on the now cooled Minnesota bats.

Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira who has missed 3 games earlier with wrist inflammation left yesterdays game in the 6th inning and is expected to sit out the next couple of games.  Two players who have had success against Hughes are Jacoby Ellsbury and Ichiro Suzuki, they are a combined 13 for 33 with 4 walks against him.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

Brian McCann: McCann has been on a hot streak, he has gone 6 for 13 with 3 doubles, 2 walks and 2 RBI his last four games so expect some nice at bats by the All-Star catcher.

Chase Whitley’s first start against a american league team, Chase’s first 3 starts were all against National league teams he lasted through 5 innings for the first on Monday against the Cardinals time lets see how he fairs against the more potent offense of an American League team.

Stay away from Josh Willingham: Willingham has 2 home runs and 5 RBI since returning from the DL Monday.