So the result wasn't what I had hoped for, but it will do no damage to the standings.

A few things I realized about this exhibition.

1.) I'm not scared of the Yankees.
New Yorks pitching is still filled with question marks. While Chacon did an admirable job last night collecting six Ks, he also has surrendered 10 walks this spring - tops in the majors. Mike Mussina gave up 10 runs on Monday; Randy Johnson has been less than stellar.

2.) A-Rod continues to add up the Ks. He went 0 for 3 in last nights game.

3.) I don't mind seeing Johnny Damon in that lineup, especially if he continues to swing at bad pitches. He also had two strikeouts.
3a.) My wife misses Damon, for now.

4.) Adam Stern continues to impress players and fans. David Ortiz has been praising this kid calling him the real deal and saying he has all the tools.

5.) And Wily Mo Pena, could also be the real deal.

I had read a quote yesterday from Pena. "If I make contact, I know it's a home run." Well last night he proved that to be correct.

Pena hit a laser over the left field fence that seems to stay just 15 feet off the ground. It was an amazing show of power. I'm beginning to believe that he in fact will be with the Sox, not only this year but perhaps become a mainstay in right. His fielding worries me, though. While I believe he has good arm strength, I doubt at his current weight he can get to the ball quickly. They say he is 245, I say he's closer to 260.

Is there another doper on the New York Yankees? According to ESPN.com, a new book alledges that not only did Jason Giambi use steroids, but also hard-hitting Gary Sheffield. Sheffield continues to deny such use.

Where has Juan gone?
Apparently the Red Sox and Juan Gonzalez' agent have yet to have contact with the two-time MVP. After penning a minor-league camp and getting an invitation to spring training, Gonzalez has yet to report. His agent is actually worried about him.

With the signing of Pena and the emergence of Stern, there really isn't any place for him. I think he is aware of that and won't make any effort to appear. It's too bad really. At one time Gonzalez was a feared hitter. Then he became a big whiner.

What do you think of this year's Red Sox?

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