Noteworthy items during the Yankees’ spring training practice on Thursday in Tampa:
Impressionist
New lefty reliever Victor Gonzalez threw an inning of live batting practice and has quickly made an impression on Aaron Boone.
Yankees reliever Victor Gonzalez, throwing a bullpen session last week, has impressed Aaron Boone thus far in spring training. AP“There’s a lot to like,” Boone said. “He’s a guy that’s, in his career, pitched in some big games. His reputation is that he’s not afraid of any kind of moment or situation. I’m excited [for] what he’s going to bring to our team.”
Highs and lows
The Yankees’ defensive drills included fielding sky-high infield pop-ups.
The only slip-up was DJ LeMahieu dropping a ball on the backside of the mound.
Caught my eye
Aaron Judge, Alex Verdugo, Juan Soto and Trent Grisham are all new teammates, but they seem to be enjoying each other’s company.
They took batting practice together and had plenty of laughs, with Verdugo using Judge’s bat for one round and Judge later egging on the crowd for applause.
Friday’s schedule
The Yankees will hold their final full-squad workout before their Grapefruit League schedule begins on Saturday against the Tigers in Lakeland, Fla.
