Going to Kansas City

The Yankees open up a 3-game series in Kansas City today with a 4:10 p.m. EDT start. The game is the Royals home opener after going 4-2 on the road to start the season. Phil Hughes is opposed by former Met, Brian Bannister in today's opener.

The Royals have a new skipper, Trey Hillman, who worked at one time in the Yankees organization and was briefly mentioned during last Fall's managerial hunt. Hillman had great success in Japan and his enthusiasm and dedication is expected to help improve the Royals ball club.

It was raining earlier today in KC, but it's not supposed to effect today's ball game. As expected Derek Jeter is out of the lineup, though he said his leg does not feel as bad as it did yesterday. Jason Giambi will return to the lineup after missing the last 3 games with a strained groin.

Hughes gave up 2 runs in 6 innings against the Blue Jays his first time out this season, but didn't figure in the decision. Bannister dominated the Tigers for 7 innings, not allowing a run in picking up the win. Needless to say, both pitchers have had limited exposure to the opposing team.

The Yankees took 9 of the 10 games played between the two teams last season. Hopefully the Yanks can steal a base in this series. They have not stolen a base so far this season, matching their slowest start in that department since 1982.

Yankees vs. Bannister

Bobby Abreu 1-3
Wilson Betemit 1-1 1 RBI
Melky Cabrera 0-2
Robinson Cano 1-2
Johnny Damon 2-3 1 HR 2 RBI
Derek Jeter 0-3
Hideki Matsui 0-2
Jorge Posada 0-2
Alex Rodríguez 2-2 2 HR 3 RBI

Royals vs. Hughes

Billy Butler 1-2
David DeJesus 2-3 1 HR 3 RBI
Joey Gathright 1-1
Ross Gload 1-2
Alex Gordon 0-2
Mark Grudzielanek 0-3
José Guillén 1-2
Tony F. Peña 0-2
Jason Smith 0-2
Mark Teahen 2-3

The Legendary Muddy Waters