New York Yankees news and notes on an off day

The New York Yankees announced after the game last night that they had traded for infielder Chris Nelson from the Colorado Rockies. He can play third base and second base, he hasn’t played short since the minors. He isn’t particularly good at either according to reports. He had a really good last year, and isn’t off to a great start this year. He can hit pretty well but he seems to be filling a need for more infield depth and a right handed bat that the Yankees need. 
Eduardo Nunez and Ichiro Suzuki are starting to hit. Ichiro is batting 407 in his last seven games. He had three hit’s the other night and his average is up to 268. Nunez is over 200 now after three hit’s the other night.

Ronnier Mustelier is back with AAA Scranton and could be a factor in the major leagues. He got hurt in spring training and is finally back playing again. He is a third baseman who could help the major league club. Curtis Granderson tweeted tonight that he had some at bats in extended spring for the second straight day. I would expect him back in the next couple of weeks.

Michael Pineda is really looking good in rehab. He is throwing 95 which is pretty remarkable. I think he can and probably will be a factor for the Yankees down the stretch. He is an important guy going forward also as he projects at top of the rotation pitcher.

Joba Chamberlain was placed on the 15 day dl today with an oblique strain. Alex Rodriguez is running full bore now and will be reporting to Tampa on Monday. He will be doing some early baseball activities. He is right on schedule though, the Yankees say don’t think he will come back early. David Robertson tweaked his knee last night and is day-to-day. He seems to be ok but they are going to be careful with him.

Mark Teixeira will be with the Yankees through the weekend and then join Rodriguez and Granderson in Tampa next week. Brian Cashman said he is staying away from timetables but is happy these guys are going to be in extended spring and being closer to returning.

Corban Joseph was optioned back to AAA and Chris Nelson will be joining the team tomorrow. The Yankees will add a pitcher to replace Chamberlain but they don’t know who it will be yet. It could be Mark Montgomery, Preston Claiborne, I guess we will find out at some point tomorrow.