the Captain returns to his post

AL BEast Notebook – March 13



Derek Jeter made his Spring debut in the field Wednesday, leading off and playing his usual shortstop position after DHing a couple games.

He had just one fielding opportunity, picking up a ground ball and tossing to second for the out in the fourth inning. He went 0-2 with a walk. Jeter is 1-6 batting in his three preseason starts.

Jeter broke his ankle in the 12th inning of the Game 1 ALCS game against the Tigers last October 13. The 38 year-old had said he would be ready for Opening Day and planned for his Spring return March 10. After it looked like that would be delayed last week, he was cleared to play and actually debuted as the designated hitter a day earlier on March 9

Due to the many injuries on the team, it is likely that he will move to the 2 or 3 spot in the lineup (after Gardner and Ichiro and before Cano).

Also of note in the game, 40 year-old Andy Pettitte made his Spring debut, allowing one run and four hits in three innings of work. Mariano Rivera also pitched a perfect inning in his second game of action. The Yankees scored five runs off Phillies starter Cliff Lee and defeated the Phils 6-2.