Associated Press
TAMPA, Fla. — Sid Fernandez threw batting practice for the second time since joining the New York Yankees and could see his first game action in four years next week.
"I’m just happy I’m throwing strikes," Fernandez said after yesterday’s session. "That’s what I’m most happy about."
Fernandez, 38, was invited to spring training after a bullpen audition last week. Should he make the big league roster, the left-hander from Hawai‘i would get a $500,000, one-year contract and the chance to make an additional $150,000 in performance bonuses.
"We’re curious," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "We want to see more of him."
Torre said Fernandez could windup as a candidate for either the fifth starter spot or a position in the bullpen.
Fernandez, 114-96 in 15 seasons, last pitched in 1997 with the Houston Astros, making one appearance before retiring because of pain near his elbow. Fernandez said it stemmed from a nerve problem in his neck.
"I feel more comfortable," Fernandez said. "I’ve been throwing. The hardest thing is to pitch, not throw."
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