New York Yankees News & Notes 3/9: Recap, Jeter vs Pettitte, Rivera’s Retirement Announcement
The big news out of Yankees camp today is the official announcement of Mariano Rivera‘s retirement at the conclusion of the 2013 season. Baseball will lose of their greats after this season, so soak it all in before the greatest closer of all time rides into the sunset.
Hard to imagine watching the Yankees without Mo. But, fans will get a final glimpse in 2013 before he officially retires (Image: John Munson/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports)
Recap
Yankees dropped another game, this time to the Marlins, 6-1. The club only managed five hits on the afternoon, but also drew five walks. They left 14 men on base, so the opportunities were there, but they just couldn’t cash in. On the pitching side, Adam Warren threw four innings and gave up four runs on six hits, walked one and struck no one out. Meanwhile, promising prospect, Mark Montgomery, continues his journey to the big leagues by striking out one hitter and walking another in one inning pitched. The Yanks are back at it today against the Atlanta Braves.
Jeter vs. Pettitte
A bit of good news coming out of Yankees camp involving injuries as Derek Jeter faced Andy Pettitte in a simulated game yesterday. The 38-year-old shortstop also took groundballs and batting practice to round out his day. It’s still unclear as to whether Jeter will play in today’s game against the Braves, as he says he’s fully healed, but hasn’t talked to manager Joe Girardi about it. If he does get into the game he’ll likely not be running full speed on the basepaths. It has been hinted at that he’ll likely get a nod at DH duties tomorrow or Monday.
Rivera’s Retirement Announcement
As I alluded above, Rivera officially announced his retirement earlier today. In his press conference he said that his overriding emotions isn’t sadness, but rather he feels thankful to have the opportunity to play for as long as he has. I’ll defer the rest of this post to reporters who were able to attend the press conference.