YANKEE NOTES

TAMPA – With Randy (Big Unit) Johnson scratched from today’s exhibition start because of left calf tightness, Tanyon Sturtze gets the start against the Pirates (1:15 p.m., ESPN).

It was no big deal for Sturtze, 34, since he would’ve followed Johnson into the game anyway. Plus, Sturtze is used to the spot-starting role. He made three in 28 appearances last season, finishing 6-2 with a 5.47 ERA. There will be times this season when he only has a day or two notice about a start – maybe two hours’ notice, Joe Torre said.

“What we learned about him last year and what he proved to not only us but maybe himself is how he pitched in situations and handled them very well,” Torre said. “He’s very comfortable here.”

Sturtze said being the Yankees’ sixth starter is “better than anything in the world.”

“Being the 11th guy in the pen is better than a lot of places,” he said.

Alex Graman, Felix Rodriguez, Paul Quantrill and Tom Gordon will also pitch today.

*

Johnson played catch but is being held out of fielding practice.

He is able to lift weights and do conditioning work. He hoped to throw a bullpen either Saturday or Sunday and make a start Tuesday against the Braves.

He reiterated he could’ve pitched today but agreed the risk wasn’t worth the reward.

“I feel pretty good right now,” he said.

*

Jorge Posada won’t be behind the plate today due to stiffness in his neck that’s bothered him for a few days now. . . .

Gary Sheffield (left shoulder) won’t get into a game until Sunday at the earliest.

*

Mariano Rivera looked strong during 12 minutes of live BP against minor-leaguers, throwing hard from the outset.