Melky Mesa and Zoilo Almonte continue to open eyes at Yankees Spring Training. Mesa hit a three-run home run in the top of the sixth, adding to his single from earlier in the game. Almonte exited the game with a pair of singles and an RBI. With Curtis Granderson out 10 weeks, the competition is on to make the big league squad out of Spring Training.

Brett Marshall, who put up great numbers at Double-A Trenton last season, dominated Houston hitters. He tossed three scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out three. Marshall has been impressive in both of his outings this spring. He’s rated as the sixth best prospect in the Yankees system by Baseball America.

Dellin Betances, who Brian Cashman has said will start the year at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, pitched a scoreless fourth inning with a couple of strikeouts. Betances is rated as the 18th best Yankee prospect by Baseball America.

Brandon Laird, a prominent member of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre squad last season, hit a grand slam in the sixth inning for the Astros. He is currently competing for a big league roster spot in Houston.Rick Ankiel has also homered for the ‘Stros in an offensive contest so far in Kissimmee, Fla.