Yankee Notes On Opening Series

THE POSITIVE
First things first, about time Mark Teixeira had a hot start in April. The dude is notorious for struggling through the first month and a half of the season, usually batting .200, and hitting like 1 home run. Mark has hit a homer in every game the Yanks' played so far. Granderson is also off to a good start at the plate and in the field. Granderson has showed off his glove, making some "Top 10" diving plays, and connected with a his first Homer on opening day, which turned out to be the game winning home run. New comers Russell Martin and Rafael Soriano also have done their part. Russell Martin, an under the radar signing this off season, has played well in the first 3 games, showing some speed and power. Soriano has displayed the lights out stuff we all saw last year, which must put fear into the heart of many in the American league. If the Yanks' get to the 8th inning with the lead, its practically an auto win. Other positive notes, Joba Chamberlin looked good in his first outing, locking down the 7th inning in the Yanks' first win. If Joba can reinvent himself this season the Yankee's bullpen may be the best in the MLB. Jeter should have a bounce back year as he closes in on 3,000 hits, and the ageless wonder Mariano Rivera continues to be the back bone of the Yankees. Posada,, adjusting to his new role as DH, seemed uncomfortable not being behind the plate at first. But in the Yankee's last game 'Georgie Juiced' 2 dingers leading me to believe he's starting to become acclimated with his new role. Can't Forget about A-Rod, who came into Spring Training healthy and in great shape. He's back in that 2007 MVP form. My prediction for A-Rod's 2011 season numbers: .303, 35 home runs, 112RBI's, nothing Alex can't handle. Cano and Swisher appear to be in good position to post similar numbers as last year. And as always Jon Sterling is in mid-season form already, coining the term "The Grandy-Man Can" on Grandersons game winning HR Thursday.

THE NEGATIVE
On the negative side; outside of CC and the bulpen the pitching staff looks shaky already. This was a question mark coming into the season but hopefully the 'Big Three' can get it together, and help the Yanks' capture another division title. Phil Hughes topped out at 90MPH on the gun, about 6 MPH slower then he was throwing 2 years ago when he came up to the Big League. Although the season is very young, Phil's lack of velocity and an out pitch remains a legitimate concern. Phil needs to get some bull pen sessions lined up to work out some of his early season kinks.

Overall? Not a bad opening series for the Yanks. The bats are alive, the pitching will come soon.

PS. any one see Mariano's New high sock style-love it.