Alex Rodriguez was in a great mood and talking up a storm, particularly with third base ump Ed Hickox. Here, he continues a chat with CC Sabathia, who has decided it's time to move on and pitch.

Lakekand, Fla., February 28, 2011 — The Yanks traveled to Lakeland today, to play the Detroit in Tiger Town. The Tigers have been in Lakeland for decades, and they attract fans of all persuasions from all over baseball to Joker Marchant Stadium. Although the Yanks fell 6-2 to a record of 1-2, the day was as gorgeous as those that preceded it, with the mercury creeping up to 85 degrees, and just in time, too. There’s a cold front expected in tomorrow, and afterward temps should dip well into the 70s, heaven forbid. Continue reading →

Ben Francisco would drive in all three Phillies runs, but he had no chance against high cheese from Dellin Betances.

Tampa, Fla., February 27, 2011 — Anyone checking for a midgame score of Sunday’s Yankee game vs. the Phillies at Clearwater and discovering Yankee leads of 2-0, then 6-0, might have assumed the Bombers were kicking butt. But although the Phillies never really threatened in the eventual 7-3 Yankee victory, this was no Bombers blowout. Both teams pitched well; the Yanks simply did so for a longer period of time. Continue reading →

That's Jesus Montero wearing No. 83 in 2010. He will be one of the most watched Yankees in Tampa -- and hopefully New York -- in 2011.

Tampa, Fla., February 26, 2011 — Our Spring Training Trek starts anew Saturday, and we’re continuing our 2010 strategy, hoteling it just a short walk from George M. Steinbrenner (GMS) Field. So our 10-day trek is a series of short strides and long(er than ideal) drives. Saturday begins with the 1,000-mile flight South, shuttle to the hotel, and shuffle to the park to watch the Yanks host the Phillies, with Bartolo Colon throwing the first Yankee pitch of the preseason — 300 yards.
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