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Yankees Spring Training Game 3: Phelps prepares to compete

Yankees-logoPittsburgh Pirates 8 — New York Yankees 2

With the fifth spot in the starting rotation open to all comers, David Phelps made his Spring debut as he makes his showing for the opportunity. After getting the first out of the game, prospect outfielder Gregory Polanco hit a home run into right field to give the Pirates the early lead.

In two innings, Phelps allowed one run on two hits while striking out four, all looking.

In the fifth inning, infielder Kelly Johnson, competing for playing time at third base or second base, tied the game. He followed a Francisco Cervelli single with a booming double to center field. The Pirates would go ahead in the sixth inning but John Ryan Murphy tied up the game at two.

With all the replacements entered into the game, reliever Robert Coello made his Spring debut a difficult one. After a leadoff walk and a single to right field, outfielder Mel Rojas Jr. would take the right-hander deep to right field for a three-run home run. This broke the tie but it was not the end for Coello’s difficult debut. He would give up a few more base hits and a few more runs. In just a third of an inning, Coello allowed five runs on five hits while walking one and striking out one.

Today also featured the debut of Brett Gardner, who went 1-for-1 with a walk. Derek Jeter, in his final Spring debut, went hitless in two at-bats while hitting into a double play.