Highbridge News: Yankees Sock it to Boston

Highbridge News: Yankees Sock it to Boston: Yankees Sock it to Boston Yanks Put to Rest Some Questions with Dominance of Red Sox, Ejection of Manager John Farrell By Ric...

Highbridge News: Yankees Sock it to Boston

Highbridge News: Yankees Sock it to Boston: Yankees Sock it to Boston Yanks Put to Rest Some Questions with Dominance of Red Sox, Ejection of Manager John Farrell By Ric...

Highbridge News: Yankees Sock it to Boston

Highbridge News: Yankees Sock it to Boston: Yankees Sock it to Boston Yanks Put to Rest Some Questions with Dominance of Red Sox, Ejection of Manager John Farrell By Ric...

Yankees Sock it to Boston

Yankees Sock it to Boston

Yanks Put to Rest Some Questions with Dominance of Red Sox, Ejection of Manager John Farrell

By Rich Mancuso

BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 14- The rivalry changed a bit when the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox met for the first time in the Bronx the past three days. The Yankees, a team with questions will take what they accomplished after their 3-2 win Sunday night taking three of four games from their rivals.

This early in the season, and with questions about a Yankees bullpen that is being tested, they conquered. Matt Thornton, David Phelps and Shawn Kelley closed the door with David Robertson on the disabled list. It was intense baseball in the Bronx and from the looks of these first four of 19-games that will be played between these division rivals, there will be more intensity.

And count on a little of everything, including spectacular defense that came from the Yankees outfield. With a decimated infield, plagued by injuries, Carlos Beltran was shifted from right-field to first base in the top of the fifth because of an injury to Francisco Cervelli.

Cervelli, will likely go on the disabled list. Sunday night, Beltran went 3-for-4 including a home run, single and a double He has been everything the Yankees wanted in their lineup, perhaps something they did not have last year when the Red Sox dominated New York.

"I didn't have a whole lot of choices tonight," said manager Joe Girardi about putting Beltran in at first for the injured Cervelli. "Just tells you the type of player he is. Willing to do anything you ask him to do.”

He added, “Very, very unselfish."

Beltran is that type of player. He was one of the four players the Yankees purchased for over $450 million to get them back to October. But, with the Yankees decimated with injuries in the infield, Beltran was pressed into service and was put in the infield for the first time in his career.

It was another dimension to this rivalry, a new one that has developed. The Red Sox don’t resemble the team that went on to win a World Series last October. And the Yankees, without Derek Jeter this night ,were pressed to do something and Beltran did not say no.

"Thank God nobody hit the baseball to me," said Beltran. He made three putouts and without Mark Teixeira, on the disabled list with a right hamstring pull, Girardi may not hesitate to put Beltran at first again.

“We have to do what it takes," Beltran said. I hope I don't have to do it again." The Yankees are doing what they have to do, 13-games into a young season. He has homered in consecutive games since May 28-29 of last season against Kansas City when he was with the Cardinals.

The Yankees scored their third run in the fourth inning. The new instant replay rule went to their benefit and caused the ejection of Boston Manager John Farrell. Cervelli was ruled safe on a bang-bang play at first. Girardi challenged.

Farrell contested the change of a call that enabled the Yankees to get what was a decisive run in what could have been an inning ending double-play. Under the new rule a play overturned is not supposed to be argued by a manager, hence the ejection. More, so the Yankees got the benefit and the rivalry got more intense.

So much of what transpired renewed a rivalry that seemed to disappear last season. Ichiro Suzuki, replacing Beltran in right, crashed into the outfield wall and made a spectacular catch that took an extra base hit away from David Ortiz in the eighth inning.

And by the eighth inning, with Mike Napoli on second, after a double to left that the Yankees’ Brett Gardner did his best to get, the Yankee Stadium crowd could be heard again, as it was when this rivalry was so intense.

Phelps, part of the mix and match late combination out of the Yankees pen walked Daniel Nava on a pitch that was low. A.J. Pierzynski got hit by a pitch that loaded the bases. Mike Carp off the bench after going behind 2-0 on the count went after a breaking ball and swung at strike three.

Then Kelley, in a role as one of the closers, sent the Red Sox packing in the ninth. It is only April, but these games are so important in a division that will be contested also with Tampa Bay.

“You know the division and wild card come down to one run,” said Girardi who always said these games are important now. However, if the Yankees want to be there in late September, they need to stay healthy. And they need good pitching as Ivan Nova got his second win in 7.1 innings. He struck out four on eight-hits and one of the Boston runs off Napoli’s third home run in the sixth.

“I thought he had a better command of his curveball tonight and that was a difference,” commented Girardi. In his last outing, Nova gave up seven runs and 10-hits in 3-2/3 innings to Baltimore.

The type of game on Sunday night that revived a rivalry in the Bronx and the Yankees, with an off Monday have a day to recuperate before welcoming the Chicago Cubs for a two-game interleague series.

Comment Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com  facebook.com/Rich Mancuso www.newyorksportsexaminer.com

Highbridge News: Yanks Blast Sox Off

Highbridge News: Yanks Blast Sox Off: Yanks Blast Sox Off Homers Give Yankees a 7-4 Victory over the Red Sox By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK APRIL 13- In a reversa...

Yanks Blast Sox Off

Yanks Blast Sox Off

Homers Give Yankees a 7-4 Victory over the Red Sox

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK APRIL 13- In a reversal of the circumstances of the previous night’s contest at Yankee Stadium, five Yankee four baggers drove in each of their seven runs and ensured them a Saturday matinee victory over the Boston Red Sox.

The good feeling of sitting under blue skies and mild temperatures in the 60’s was increased for the Yankee rooters in the ballpark by the success at the plate of the Yankee batters. The combination provided a pleasant Saturday afternoon outing for the 48.572 fans in the Stadium, the largest crowd of the season.

In the first frame, a two-out single by the hot hitting former star of the Red Sox, Jacoby Ellsbury, was followed by Carlos Beltran’s second home run of the 2014 campaign, which gave New York a two run lead.

A lead-off base hit by Xander Bogarts in the second led to a tied score of two as the next batter, AJ Pierzynski blasted the first pitch into the seats in right to drive in two runs.

Two innings later, Brian McCann and Alfonso Soriano connected for back-to-back homers to give New York a 4-2 advantage. The Yankees had last hit homers back-to-back on June 6, 2013 in Seattle.

Two additional Yankee runners crossed the plate in the bottom of the sixth. McCann with his second home run of the game also drove in Beltran, who had doubled to begin the inning. This was McCann’s tenth multi-homer game in his career in the majors. It was the first Yankee multi-home run game since Soriano blasted two round trippers on September 10, 2013.

Despite entering the contest with a batting average of .162, the Yankee skipper was not surprised by McCann’s home runs, “I know he’s going to hit; he’s too good a hitter not to hit.”

Yankee starter Hiroki Kuroda was removed from the game after 6.1 innings after walking two batters in the seventh. A hit batsman and a single by Mike Carp off reliever Matt Thornton allowed the last two baserunners of Kuroda’s outing to score.

Kuroda gave up six hits and four earned runs in his 6.1 inning performance. He earned his second win of the young season, but was critical of his pitching, “Overall, I wasn’t sharp. My command and precise control wasn’t there.”

Kelly Johnson began the eighth frame with a crushing blow that landed in the center field seats. Saturday’s game was the third straight in which Johnson homered. The two rookies, Yangervis Solarte and Dean Anna, followed with a single and a double respectively. They were stranded on second and third when the inning concluded after the next two batters could not move them.

The offensive onslaught was quite pleasing to the Yankee manager, “It definitely helps if you can score runs quickly. I think our offense is much more balanced than last year. I think it is much more explosive too.”

The final game of the series will be played on Sunday night. Ivan Nova will start for New York and Felix Doubront will start for Boston.

Highbridge News: CC Loses Concentration, Game

Highbridge News: CC Loses Concentration, Game: CC Loses Concentration, Game Red Sox Homers Give Boston a 4-2 Win over Yanks By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 12-  The Red Sox evened...

CC Loses Concentration, Game

CC Loses Concentration, Game
Red Sox Homers Give Boston a 4-2 Win over Yanks


By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 12- The Red Sox evened the four game series with the Yankees at one each as two homers in the sixth inning off Yankee starter CC Sabathia gave the visitors enough runs to ensure their victory.

Sabathia was extremely effective during the first five innings, giving up one hit, a double by catcher David Ross in the third and walking two batters. During that period, the lefty fanned six to tie Roger Clemens for 12th place in strikeouts as a Yankee pitcher.

Manager Joe Girardi was pleased with the work of the man considered the ace of the Yankee staff, “I thought he [Sabathia] threw the ball pretty well. He’s run into a little bit of bad luck.”

The bad luck or careless pitching came in the sixth frame. The second pitch Sabathia threw was hit by Jonny Gomes into the seats in left field to knot the score at one. With one out, David Ortiz checked his swing on a 0-2 pitch, but the ball dribbled into the infield for a base hit. The unlikely hit unnerved the veteran pitcher sufficiently for him to lose his focus.

Mike Napoli then singled and Grady Sizemore, a close friend of the Yankee pitcher, took a hanging slider into the right field stands for a three run homer. Girardi believed only one bad pitch cost Sabathia a victory, “It was just one pitch. I thought he left the slider up to Sizemore.”

The losing hurler for the Yankees blamed the difficult inning on his loss of concentration after the hit by Ortiz, “It’s frustrating. I let them [my emotions] get the best of me tonight. I just can’t let this stuff happen. I haven’t been able to put a whole game together.”

The Boston starter, Jon Lester, spoke respectfully and realistically of Sabathia’s performance, “You know it’s always going to be tough against CC. He was on point and made a couple of mistakes. Fortunately, we made him pay for it.”

Lester only gave up one run in the first six innings, also caused by one pitch. Alfonso Soriano connected on a fastball to lead off the second and drove the ball into the seats in left for his 408th home run.

A two out single in the seventh by Ichiro Suzuki, a walk to Brian Roberts and a single by Kelly Johnson drove in the only other run for the Yanks. The hit was only the first by Johnson off Lester in 15 at bats. Notwithstanding the hit, Johnson was full of praise for Lester, “Lester was great. That was typical Lester. He’s one of the toughest in the game.”

Girardi was in agreement, “When you’re facing an ace [Lester], you don’t score a lot of runs.”
The third game of the series will be played on Saturday afternoon with Hiroki Kuroda starting for New York and John Lackey for Boston.

Highbridge News: Pizza chain opens in hungry Co-op City

Highbridge News: Pizza chain opens in hungry Co-op City: Pizza chain opens in hungry Co-op City BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 11- Hungry Howie's Pizza is bringing their famous flavored crus...

Pizza chain opens in hungry Co-op City

Pizza chain opens in hungry Co-op City

BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 11- Hungry Howie's Pizza is bringing their famous flavored crust to the New York area with its newest location at Co-op City. 

Hungry Howie's Pizza, the originator of the flavored crust pizza, offers eight famous crust flavors including: butter, butter cheese, cajun, garlic herb, onion, ranch, sesame and original. The franchise also offers $5, $10, $15 and $20 deals for the Co-op City and North East Bronx residents to indulge in. "I am thrilled to begin Hungry Howie's Pizza's expansion in the state of New York, with my new location at Co-op City," said owner Phillip Cotto. "I am positive we will bring great service and high quality, delicious pizza to the area." "We are grateful to have Phillip as part of the Hungry Howie's Pizza family," said Brian Wirth, Marketing Manager at Hungry Howie's Pizza. “With great passion along with a wonderful environment, we are confident that they will do well at their Co-op City location."

The Bronx Chamber of Commerce presented Phillip with a certificate officially welcoming Hungry Howie’s to the Bronx Community family. Hungry Howie’s team presented Jeffrey Ampratwum, District Executive/Bronx Council of the Boy Scout of America with a check to help support their facilities.

Hungry Howie's Pizza is located at 291 Co-op City Blvd, Bronx, NY. To reach Hungry Howie's Pizza call (929) 222-4500. Hours of operation are Sunday-Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. 

Highbridge News: One-Two Punch Sox Boston

Highbridge News: One-Two Punch Sox Boston: One-Two Punch Sox Boston Pitching, Hitting Takes Out Red Sox By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 11- Michael Pineda made his...

One-Two Punch Sox Boston

One-Two Punch Sox Boston

Pitching, Hitting Takes Out Red Sox

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 11- Michael Pineda made his second start of the year and his first at Yankee Stadium on Thursday night. His start on April 5 at Toronto was his first since September 21, 2011. His last victory in the majors came on July 30, 2011. A serious shoulder injury and surgery kept him out of the majors for the 2012 and 2013 seasons.

In each of his starts this month, Pineda pitched six innings and gave up only one earned run. He was given the loss on April 5 because the Yankees were shut out. The situation was different five days later. 

Yankee batters managed more than one hit in only two innings but made those hits count. Jacoby Ellsbury was safe on an error to begin the fourth frame. Carlos Beltran followed with a single to right, his fourth hit in the last two games. Ellsbury scored the first run in the game as the next batter, Brian McCann, broke a 0 for 14 streak with a run batted in single. McCann spoke about the hit, “I found a hole. I really needed that hit.” The second run crossed the plate on a double play on Alfonso Soriano.

The Yanks scored their final two runs in the next inning. With one out, Dean Anna hit his first major league home run. The 27 year-old was acquired from the San Diego Padres in a trade on November 20, 2013. The native of Illinois made his major league debut on April 4. He said, “Words can’t explain it.” He then tried to, “It feels really good to hit a home run at Yankee Stadium against the Red Sox. He [Buchholz] threw a change-up [and] I hit it well.”

Asked if he felt like giving up after playing 554 minor league games before reaching the majors, the infielder remarked, “You just have to keep your head down and work, work, work.”

The second run scored that inning was by Derek Jeter, who doubled with two out. Jeter was driven in by a single from Ellsbury, in his first game against his former team. In a pre-game press conference, the new Yankee commented that playing for both the Red Sox and Yankees was “pretty special.”

The only Boston run was scored on a seventh inning lead-off homer by Daniel Nava.

The four runs for the Yankees were more than sufficient for the win because of Yankee pitching. Pineda’s six inning performance was impressive. He gave up one run and four hits, walked two and fanned seven. 

Yankee skipper Joe Girardi was pleased, “He pitched extremely well. He mixed his pitches, location was really good, he had command of the strike zone. We’re glad to have him back.”

David Phelps, the reliever who got the save with an outstanding 2.1 innings on the mound, also praised Pineda, “He [Pineda] did a great job carrying us. He keeps guys off balance.”

Girardi also gave credit to Phelps, “Outstanding performance on his part, got huge outs for us.”

CC Sabathia (Yanks) and Jon Lester (Red Sox) will be the starters of the second contest of the big rivalry on Friday night. 

Highbridge News: Phenomenal Start for Yankee Rookie Yangervis Solar...

Highbridge News: Phenomenal Start for Yankee Rookie Yangervis Solar...: Phenomenal Start for Yankee Rookie Yangervis Solarte By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 10- -The cycle of life can be seen...

Phenomenal Start for Yankee Rookie Yangervis Solarte

Phenomenal Start for Yankee Rookie Yangervis Solarte

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 10--The cycle of life can be seen in this year’s Yankee infield. One individual is about to depart while another is about to begin a life. Yankee captain Derek Jeter’s playing career in Major League Baseball (MLB) will end at the conclusion of this season while Yangervis Solarte made his debut in the majors last week.

The absence of Jeter will be noticed and commented upon throughout the nation. 

On the other hand, Solarte began as a Yankee with little notice. At the age of 18, the Venezuelan signed a contract with the Minnesota Twins as a non-drafted free agent. In six minor league seasons, Solarte saw limited playing time.

In the winter of 2011, he was signed as a minor league free agent by the Texas Rangers. In two full seasons at the Rangers’ Triple A affiliate in Round Rock, Solarte batted an impressive .340 and .323 in respective seasons. His combined minor league batting average was .286 in 672 games. 

The 26 year-old signed with the Yankees in January of this year as a minor league free agent. At the conclusion of the 2014 Spring Training, Solarte was moved to the Yankees roster in place of Eduardo Nuñez, who was traded to the Twins this week. Solarte earned his promotion by batting .429 (18 for 42) and driving in nine runs in 24 games. 

Solarte made his major league debut on April 2 as a pinch hitter for Kelly Johnson. His first start in the majors on the following day was an auspicious occasion as he batted 3 for 3 and drew a walk in four trips to the plate. His was not perfect at the plate in his next two road games but hit safely twice in each. This achievement made him the first Yankee since Joe DiMaggio in 1936 with at least two hits in each of his first three starts in the majors. 

In his four starts on the Yankees first road trip of the season, he hit safely 8 times in 15 at bats and drove in five runs.

The Yankee Stadium Opening Day start at third in front of a full house did not awe the neophyte major leaguer. He walked in his first trip to the plate and scored the first Yankee run of the afternoon. In his next at bat, he drove in a run with a single.

The rookie continued his hot batting in Tuesday afternoon’s humiliating 14-5 loss to Baltimore. He doubled home a run in the fourth, and in his next at bat, doubled again. According to Elias, Solarte is the first major leaguer since 1900 to hit, at least, six doubles in his first seven games.the two hits raised Solarte’s hitting streak to six games.

After Tuesday’s game, Yankee skipper Joe Girardi remarked, “I like what I see. He’s certainly taken advantage of this opportunity. We’re going to keep running him out there.”

The name of former Yankee third baseman Alex Rodriguez is not being currently heard at Yankee Stadium.

Highbridge News: Tanaka has arrived in the Bronx

Highbridge News: Tanaka has arrived in the Bronx: Tanaka has arrived in the Bronx  Pitching Phenom Lives Up to the Hype By Rich Mancuso BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 10-  The slider, fas...

Tanaka has arrived in the Bronx

Tanaka has arrived in the Bronx 

Pitching Phenom Lives Up to the Hype

By Rich Mancuso

BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 10- The slider, fastball, and change up came as advertised from Masahiro Tanaka and were on display for the first time in the Bronx Wednesday night. And for almost seven innings, Tanaka had the Baltimore Orioles knowing that the New York Yankees right-hander from Japan had arrived.

Nelson Cruz also knows that well, two of the 10-strikeout victims, courtesy of a nasty slider Tanaka throws that hit the dirt. The fastball also contributed to the swings, and looks at the plate that Cruz and the Orioles will see again.

It was Tanaka as advertised, and there will be more to come. The Yankees early season bullpen issues are more of an issue for manager Joe Girardi. 

Tanaka was asked about his first two starts and the early runs. He gave up a first inning home run in his first start, to Melky Cabrera up in Toronto. Wednesday night, the Orioles scored three runs in the second inning.

“Obviously that is something I need to adjust,” he said through his interpreter. “It’s really hard to make an assessment after two games.” And one veteran scout sitting up in the Yankee Stadium area press box said, “He will adjust. Wish we had him.”

A first inning fastball hit by Delmon Young, a double to the wall in left was the beginning of what will be an adjustment. It was clocked at 90, advertised as it came. But Young got a hold of it and Tanaka, will eventually adjust and learn how to get three easy outs in a Major League Baseball game first inning.

Adam Jones got caught swinging at a third strike, a 14-pitch first inning. Nelson Cruz got fooled and struck out in the second on a Tanaka fastball. Steve Lombordozzi followed with the second hit of the inning, lining a ball that got over the head of Yangervis Solarte at third.

But, Tanaka looked good against Cruz, one of the premiere hitters in baseball, with or without a steroid suspension on his resume. He got Cruz to strike out in the third inning on a slider that was in the dirt, but in that second inning, he continued to get a lesson.

Jonathan Schoop, on a 1-0 pitch, got hold of a slider that landed deep in the second deck out in left for an Orioles 3-0 lead. He would settle down, very identical to that first start up in Toronto. There were 58 pitches, 40 for strikes after three innings. He definitely can dominate, and on four days rest, another adjustment that he says will not be an issue.

“He made a mistake and kept a slider up,” commented Schoop. “I tried to make adjustments as he tried to elevate me, and then he made a mistake.”

However, Tanaka, as everyone knows will not make many mistakes. This is still a learning process of adjusting and learning the hitters here, even in his new home run yard known as Yankee Stadium. He allowed three earned runs and a walk.

“He battled out of tough jams, made pitches when he had to and got better as the night went along,” said Girardi, who added, Tanaka threw the ball okay. In the fifth inning with two on base and with two out, the score knotted at 3-3, on a 2-2 pitch he got Matt Wieters to go after a changeup in the dirt and get out of the inning, his eighth strikeout.

“He is as good as advertised,” claimed Orioles manager Buck Showalter. “

On his 101^st pitch, Tanaka got Young swinging on another slider for his 10^th strikeout and second of the sixth inning. He could have gone longer, but this is a process, now adjusting to the four day rest routine. In other words this is not the accustomed process of taking the mound every fifth day.  

He said, “I understand four days. Also it’s a long season and will go along with it.” 

The Orioles’ Adam Jones said, Tanaka is not facing the same hitters that were in Japan. “We groove, we hack.”

Jones struck out twice and singled in three at bats off Tanaka. He became the second Yankee pitcher to strike out at least eight batters in each of his first two Major League starts. The 10 strikeouts were the most by a Yankees rookie since Ivan Nova on August 4, of 2011 against the White Sox, and most for a rookie at home since 1998 in a game against Texas.

Yes, Tanaka has arrived. The Yankees may have their bullpen issues but a sensation from Japan will eventually go deeper into games. It is part of the adjustment and he comes as advertised.

Comment Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com  Facebook.com/Rich Mancuso  www.newyorksportsexaminer.com

Highbridge News: Rapist

Highbridge News: Rapist: Phony Super Rapes Tenant  By Dan Gesslein BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 3-  Police are asking for the public’s help in trying to catc...

Rapist

Phony Super Rapes Tenant 

By Dan Gesslein

BRONX, NEW YORK, APRIL 3-  Police are asking for the public’s help in trying to catch a rapist who posed as a building’s super to gain access to his victim.

At around 1:15 a.m. on March 24, a 25-year-old woman heard a knock on her door at her Bedford Park building. Speaking in Spanish, the suspect claimed to be the building’s superintendent and there was a gas leak in the apartment. As the woman opened the door, the suspect pushed his way inside with a handgun. He pistol whipped the woman and raped her. 

The suspect is described as a dark-skinned Hispanic male who is 6 feet tall and weighs 190 pounds.

Anyone with information is urged to call CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 577-TIPS. The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers Website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or texting their tips to 274637(CRIMES) then enter TIP577. 

All calls are confidential.

Highbridge News: Home Invaders Sought

Highbridge News: Home Invaders Sought: Home Invaders Sought Suspects Sought in Cedar Avenue Home Invasion By David Greene BRONX, NEW YORK,  APRIL 2- Investigators...

Home Invaders Sought

Home Invaders Sought

Suspects Sought in Cedar Avenue Home Invasion

By David Greene

BRONX, NEW YORK,  APRIL 2- Investigators are looking at surveillance video in hopes of identifying four hooded individuals wanted in connection with a University Heights home invasion.

Police say the four suspects entered the home at 2:30 p.m. on March 22, near the corner of Cedar Avenue and West Fordham Road.

The armed intruders held two victims at gunpoint and tied up a third victim before ransacking the home for valuables. Police say the thieves made off with $20,000 cash and other valuables before fleeing in the families BMW SUV.

Police have released photos of the four suspects and ask that if anyone knows the identity of the perpetrators to call CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls are confidential.

Highbridge News: YANKEES

Highbridge News: YANKEES: Return to Glory? New Faces and Returning Faves Look to Bring Home Another Championship By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, MARCH 31-...

YANKEES

Return to Glory? New Faces and Returning Faves Look to Bring Home Another Championship

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, MARCH 31- As the college basketball season reaches its apex, the Final Four, the Major League Baseball (MLB) season is ready to begin in full force. Each team, except the two teams who began the season earlier in March in Australia, have a mark of 0-0.

Hopes are high in the Bronx as there are always expectations among Yankee fans that the team will reach the World Series or, at the least, qualify for the playoffs. 

Great changes have been made since the conclusion of the 2013 season. Iconic figures have departed. Mariano Rivera, the greatest closer in MLB history, retired. Andy Pettitte, a mainstay starter for 15 seasons with the Yankees, especially effective in the post-season, retired. 

The controversial third sacker who has blasted more than 600 home runs, Alex Rodrigez, was suspended for the entire 2014 season by the Commissioner of Baseball. Robinson Cano, considered by many observers to be the best second baseman in the majors, signed a 10-year contract for $240 million with the Seattle Mariners. Starter Phil Hughes and reliever Joba Chamberlain signed with other teams as the Yankees showed little interest in signing them.

Last year’s injury riddled team finished the year with an 85-77 record and did not qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2008. The 2013 Yankees consisted of many reserves who were inserted into the starting lineup in the place of injured star players.

Stars always counted upon for consistency are returning from serious injuries. First baseman Mark Teixeira played only 15 games in 2013 after having suffered a wrist injury that required surgery. The team captain Derek Jeter played only 17 games last year after repeated ankle injuries. Jeter announced that 2014 will be his final season in the majors. He, obviously, will be making his usual supreme effort to lead his club to a successful year. 

Four off-season free agent acquisitions with a combined cost of nearly $500 million are expected to strengthen in the club in a number of areas. For the first time since Jorge Posada was behind the plate, the Yankees have an outstanding offensive and defensive catcher with leadership qualities in Brian McCann. With an impressive Spring Training showing, Francisco Cervelli beat out Austin Romine and J.R. Murphy to be the back-up catcher.

Jacoby Ellsbury, formerly of the Red Sox, will be the lead-off hitter and center fielder for the team. Although he was out two weeks with an injury in March, the Yankees are hopeful he will play a full injury-free season. 

Veteran Carlos Beltran will fill the position in right field. The former Met had envisioned playing with the Yankees years ago. If he remains as he has been the last few years, he will help the Yankees at bat and should also be a boon to the team in the clubhouse. 

Brett Gardner, on the big club since 2008, recently signed a four -year extension for $52 million. Gardner, who has a similar skill set as Ellsbury, will fill the other outfield corner in left.

Veteran Ichiro Suzuki will serve as the fourth outfielder. Alfonso Soriano, who had an excellent season after signing with the Yankees last year will move from the outfield to be the designated hitter.

Kelly Johnson at third and Brian Roberts at second will join veteran Yankees Teixeira and Jeter in the infield. While they cannot be expected to replace Rodriguez and Cano at the plate, the experienced major leaguers should be more than adequate in the field. 

The ace of the starting rotation, CC Sabathia, is hoping to rebound after a poor year. He has again lost weight, which could either be positive or negative. He appears to recognize that he needs to adjust to the loss of velocity on his fastball. 

The second starter, Hiroki Kuroda, is coming off a disappointing second half of the 2013 season. The 39 year-old can benefit the Yankees by helping major league rookie Matsahiro Tanaka adjust to the majors and the United States. 

The three young starters had outstanding springs. Tanaka was 2-0 with an excellent ERA in his appearances. Ivan Nova also pitched well. Michael Pineda, after missing two seasons with injuries, was recently named the fifth starter by Joe Girardi after an impressive Spring Training. 

The key relief spot, closer, filled nearly perfectly by Marian Rivera will be given to David Robertson. Last year’s eighth inning specialist is hopeful of being as successful as he was on 2013 in his new role. The Yankees passed on signing several respected closers to replace Rivera. 

Shawn Kelley and newcomer Jacob Thornton are expected to take over the eighth inning responsibilities. Other returning relievers include David Phelps, Dellin Betances, Cesar Cabral, and Adam Warren.

Will the 2014 version of the Yankees be sufficient to carry them into the playoffs? No one yet knows. Yankees personnel and fans certainly hope for and expect success. 

Highbridge News: Derek Jeter, Kate Moss ‘Sign’ for Troubled Pol

Highbridge News: Derek Jeter, Kate Moss ‘Sign’ for Troubled Pol: Derek Jeter, Kate Moss ‘Sign’ for Troubled Pol Campaign Workers Indicted for False Petition Signatures BRONX, NEW YORK, MARCH 27- Di...

Derek Jeter, Kate Moss ‘Sign’ for Troubled Pol

Derek Jeter, Kate Moss ‘Sign’ for Troubled Pol

Campaign Workers Indicted for False Petition Signatures

BRONX, NEW YORK, MARCH 27- District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced that a nine-month long investigation into fraudulent petitions filed with the New York City Board of Elections has resulted in the arrests of three former campaign workers for New York City Council Member Maria Del Carmen Arroyo.

The investigation uncovered no evidence of any criminal conduct by any other persons.

Elbin Lopez, 49, of Alexander Avenue, Betty Julien, 47, of Bruckner Boulevard of Richman Plaza, and Luis Vargas, 45, of Bruckner Boulevard, have been charged with multiple felony counts of falsifying business records in the first degree, forgery in the second degree, and offering a false instrument for filing in the first degree. The defendants are facing maximum terms of up to seven years imprisonment if convicted.

The charges stem from the defendants’ alleged conduct as employees of Council Member Arroyo’s campaign for re-election in 2013. The defendants were hired by the Council Member’s campaign to gather signatures on petitions to have her name placed on the ballot in the Democratic Primary Election which was held in September 2013.

The defendants were arraigned before Criminal Court Judge Carol Sharpe and were released on their own recognizance.

It is alleged that Lopez, Julien, and Vargas forged nearly 100 signatures on the candidate’s petitions which were then filed with the New York City Board of Elections. The alleged forgeries included the signatures of New York Yankees team captain Derek Jeter, sports announcer Joe Buck, New York Giants defensive tackle Rocky Bernard, and actress Kate Moss. The petitions also contained phony addresses accompanying some signatures including a Citibank branch location and a location for the drug rehabilitation program Odyssey House.

The charges announced today are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Highbridge News: Subway Muggers Sought

Highbridge News: Subway Muggers Sought: Subway Muggers Sought Police Seek to Identify D-Train Robbers By David Greene BRONX NEW YORK, MARCH 20- P olice have released ...

Subway Muggers Sought

Subway Muggers Sought

Police Seek to Identify D-Train Robbers

By David Greene

BRONX NEW YORK, MARCH 20- Police have released a video and several photos and are hoping the public can help identify two groups of suspects wanted in connection with two cellphone robberies at a Norwood train station.

According to police, an unidentified 20-year-old male victim was on the mezzanine level of the East 205 Street station when he was approached from behind by two assailants at 8:30 p.m., on February 16.

The victim reported that one of two suspects produced a firearm and demanded valuables. The suspects removed the victim’s wallet and cellphone before fleeing the station.

A surveillance camera captured the two suspects as they exited the station. They are both described as male Hispanics. The armed suspect reportedly had braids in his hair and wore a black hat.

Police reported a second incident that took place at the same train station at 8:15 p.m. on February 17.

Cops in that case say the 34-year-old victim had boarded a southbound D-train when an individual grabbed the victim’s cellphone and fled.

The victim reportedly gave chase and was surrounded on the platform by a group of suspects, who punched him in the face several times and fled.

Investigators have also released surveillance photos of the six suspects in this case, all believed to be in their teens or early 20's. The photo were taken as they too fled the station.

Repeated attempts to reach Gilbert Santos, the MTA Station Manager for the 205 Street Station were unsuccessful.

An employee answering phones at the MTA Transit Police Department referred calls for information to the NYPD.

Police suggest subway riders keep all electronic devices secured and out of sight at all times.

Anyone with any information on either of the individuals is asked to call CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 577-TIPS or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and enter TIP577, all calls remain confidential.

Highbridge News: Can Jackson Turn the Knicks Around?

Highbridge News: Can Jackson Turn the Knicks Around?: Can Jackson Turn the Knicks Around?  By Howard Goldin BRONX NEW, MARCH 19-   On Tuesday morning, Phil Jackson returned to the scene...

Can Jackson Turn the Knicks Around?

Can Jackson Turn the Knicks Around? 

By Howard Goldin

BRONX NEW, MARCH 19- On Tuesday morning, Phil Jackson returned to the scene of his first success in the NBA, Madison Square Garden. The 68-year-old former player and coach was present for a press conference in which it was announced that he signed a 5-year contract to be the President of the New York Knicks.

Named to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame several years ago, Jackson has compiled one of the most impressive marks in NBA history. He has the highest winning percentage of any NBA coach, .704, and his teams have won a record 11 NBA titles. 

Jackson was also part of the two championship years of the New York franchise, 1970 and 1973, as a player. As a reminder of those highly respected teams, teammates Walt “Clyde” Frazier and Dick Barnett, and the son of Dave DeBusschere were at the conference. Messages were read from another teammate, Willis Reed, and the daughter of their beloved, late coach “Red”’ Holtzman.

The happiest words that fans of the Knicks heard were spoken by owner James Dolan. He affirmed he would “willingly and gratefully cede authority” to Phil Jackson on basketball decisions. Dolan admitted, “I think I’m a little out of my element when it comes to the team. My whole job now is supporting them [Jackson and General Manager Steve Mills] in winning a championship.”

Dolan also said of Jackson, “Phil has a vision for the Knicks to put us on the path to success. Phil will be in charge of all basketball operations.”

Jackson accepted that statement as a proviso for his accepting the position with the Knicks, “I wouldn’t come if that hadn’t happened.” 

After such great success with the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers, Jackson is returning where he began in the NBA. Although he has children, grandchildren and a girlfriend living in California and must be there for medical treatments, Jackson will make the move east, “Moving to the city is difficult but important. I’ll be moving back and forth, but this is where I’ll establish myself.”

His experience has taught him, “This is the best place to play basketball. There’s no better place to win than in New York City. We’re going to make it here.”

He also explained the reason for accepting an executive rather than a position on the court, “I’m too old to play and too lame to coach. I got intrigued to enter into an executive, management position.”

Of the people Jackson was asked to comment on were Carmelo Anthony and current coach Mike Woodson. He spoke positively and carefully of each. Of Anthony he said, “I think Carmelo, as great a player as he is, has another level he can go to.” On the previous day, Anthony spoke with humility regarding cooperating with Jackson, “I’m still willing to learn. I haven’t won anything.” 

Regarding Woodson, Jackson remarked, “Mike has shown he’s a very good basketball coach. He hopes the coach can lead the team the playoffs this year. He expected to meet with Woodson at the end of the season to discuss the future.

He spoke in relatively general terms of the principles he espouses, a team game and a system like the Triangle Offense, “I believe in system basketball.”

He expects 2015 to be the year of great improvement. There will be a larger number of renowned free agents available than this year. Jackson added, perhaps to encourage Anthony and the fans, “We’re looking forward to another solid contributor to help Carmelo.”