Yanks/Indians game day

Notes from today's New York/Cleveland exhibition from Tampa:

• Wang vs. Sabathia will be a marquee match up during the regular season as each #1 starter will be vital for their team's postseason aspirations.
• Wang works 4 1/3 innings, throws 76 pitches, allows 4 runs and 6 hits, he features good stuff that results in 7 strikeouts.
• C.C. Sabathia is in his walk year and rumors are that he could be at the top of the Bomber's rotation, this time next year. Despite the talent, investing 200 million in an obese pitcher is a high risk venture. Baseball Prospectus' 2008 guide issues a warning, "the team worked the 26 year-old hard last year, to a point that seemed dangerous." If the Indians determine they can't resign him, will they be inclined to ride their horse extra hard in what figures to be a very competitive AL pennant race? Buyer beware.
• Girardi gets ready for the regular season by starting Duncan in right field and sitting Abreu. Duncan figures to get all his at bats when a southpaw is on the mound and will be shifted between first and right.
• Good question: Broadcaster John Flaherty mentions that prospect Brett Gardner asked about the correct way to question an umpire. "Gardner's an on-base-guy he wanted to know how the pros ask an umpire about the strike zone."(paraphrased) A thinking young player looking to optimize his skills--I like this kid already.
• The Yanks win a sloppy exhibition, Flaherty reports that this is the time of the spring when players tend to get bored.
• Yankees followers looking for comprehensive, objective scouting reports should consult Baseball Prospectus' 2008 Guide. Analysis, without hype, is a good thing. BP's projects that the Yanks will win 98 games this season, if that happens there will be euphoria in the Bronx and Girardi will be a favorite for manager of the year.