Yankees Start Off 0-3

The Yankees have yet to win a game in 2006, as they posted their third consecutive loss today, 4-1. Randy Johnson was only pitching about 70% of what he could be, and his pitches seemed slow and easy. He pitched three innings, allowed three runs, and struck out a pair of batters. Scott Proctor looked strong from the mound, tossing two scoreless innings. He also got out of a bases-loaded, no out jam by striking out Adam Dunn and Edwin Encarnacion. At the plate, Kevin Thompson drove in the only Yankee run, and Cano contributed two hits. The Yankees also made some roster cuts. Pitcher Jorge DePaula, catcher Jose Gil, and pitcher Steven White were all sent to minor league afilliates, meaning they aren't going to be on the Yankees roster.

Here are some other notes on the state of the Yankees:

1) Bubba Crosby bruised his left index finger during a bunt drill and was scratched from the lineup. However, it was nothing serious.

2) Carl Pavano and Octavio Dotel threw in the bullpen before the game. Both seemed fine.

3) Mariano Rivera will pitch Monday at Legends Field.

4) Kyle Farnsworth made his first Yankee appearance today. He looked solid from the mound, and he will be a great set-up man for Rivera.

5) Kevin Thompson has played well this spring training, and don't be surprised if he makes the 25-man roster this April. He contributed the only RBI in today's game.

6) Susan Waldman set a record for most advertisements in a game, with 643.

7) Even though the Yankees are 0-3, remember that they went 9-20 during Spring Training in 2001. They, of course, then went on to go 95-65 and compete in the World Series.

As for predictions, I think I'll stop with the American League. Standingwise in the the NL, I predict it will be Atlanta, St. Louis, and San Francisco, with Millwaukee nabbing the wild card. And no, that's not a typo. This is the year for Sheets, Lee, Jenkins, and Derrick Turnbow to emerge as strong forces in the league. Look to see 40 saves from Turnbow and more than 15 wins from Sheets. Sorry to Met fans, but I don't think they're going to make it this year. They have the right players, but not the right chemistry.