Phelps, Warren On Tap as Spring Opener Starters

Spring Training is in full force; pitchers are now throwing simulated games, and hitters are getting up to speed with some of their earlier reporting teammates. On Tuesday, the New York Yankees announced their first two starters of the spring schedule, both of which had connections to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre last season.

David Phelps will start the opener on Saturday against the Braves. He will face off against Paul Maholm, a mid-season acquisition by Atlanta from the Pirates last season. Phelps threw his first simulated game of the season, and Ronnier Mustelier, a SWB teammate from last season, gave him quite the scare. Phelps made one start last season for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and is competing for a rotation spot with the Yankees.

Another guy competing for a spot with the big league club is Adam Warren, who spent all of 2012 with SWB. Warren, who compiled a 7-8 record in the International League last season, will get the nod on Sunday for the Yankees against the Blue Jays in their spring home opener.

The countdown continues, and we now stand at 44 days until opening day at the new PNC Field, which is slated for April 4 against the Pawtucket Red Sox. Spring Training action should help that date arrive just a little bit faster.

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