New York Yankees: Andy Pettitte to Start in Spring Finale vs. New York Mets
April 3, 2012 · Michael Moraitis · Jump to comments
Article Source: Bleacher Report - New York Yankees
The return process continues for Andy Pettitte, and it appears the New York Yankees will give him the nod for one inning in the spring training finale on Wednesday against the New York Mets, according to George A. King III of the New York Post:
‘I talked to (pitching coach) Larry Rothschild last night and I realized I would feel good enough to pitch,’ Pettitte said outside the Yankees clubhouse. ‘I bounced back real good and I feel good for an inning tomorrow.’
Pettitte announced his comeback on March 16th, and this could be the first action he sees in live gameplay since he came out of retirement.
Before that, Pettitte had been throwing bullpen sessions and simulated games in order to build the arm strength necessary to compete. It appears that things are right on schedule for the estimated May return date originally given.
It remains to be seen what the Bombers will do with their current rotation moving forward.
Here is what Yankees manager Joe Girardi announced his starting five would look like to start the season:
1. CC Sabathia
2. Hiroki Kuroda
3. Phil Hughes
4. Ivan Nova
5. Freddy Garcia
Michael Pineda will start the season on the DL, and after a DL stint and some minor league starts, he could be ready to return to the big leagues by May.
Freddy Garcia has been displeased with New York bringing Pettitte on board for 2012, and his days in pinstripes could be numbered upon the Yankee legend’s return. The Bombers have reportedly already tried to move him during the spring.
I’m not sure what the Yanks will do to make room for Pettitte, but one thing’s certain: They will make room.
Wednesday will be the first preview as to why the Yankees will make room for Pettitte.
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