Yankees Nip Astros 7-6

The Yankees aren't too concerned with their starting lineup, but how Mike Mussina fares this summer has to be a major concern. Mussina was handed an early lead this afternoon in Kissimmee, but couldn't hold it. The Yankees bats banged out 14 hits though and the offense and bullpen led the way to a 7-6 Yankees victory. The Yankees are now 2-0-1 in the Grapefruit League.

Leading 4-2 in the bottom of the 3rd, Mussina served up a gopher ball to Carlos Lee, who crushed it for a 3-run home run and the lead. Jeff Karstens replaced Mussina in the middle of the inning and tossed 3 scoreless frames en route to the win.

Robinson Cano had 3 hits and he and Shelley Duncan drove in 2 runs each to pace the offense. The Yankees took the lead for good with a 3-run 6th inning. Mark Melancon pitched a scoreless 9th for the save.

Morgan Ensberg enjoyed a day against his old with a pair of hits, an RBI, and a run scored. Melky Cabrera also contributed 2 hits, a walk, and 3 runs scored. Click Here to see the full box score.

On Tuesday, the Yankees travel to Dunedin to take on the Blue Jays.