Friday's News

Although I may be completely snowed in, under a foot of accumulation, I can still deliver the links. Dig in.

The Joba Chamberlain vs Phil Hughes competition for the fifth spot in the rotation is under way. They both threw live batting practice today under the watchful eye of Joe Girardi. LoHud chronicled the session. Each player threw around 30 pitches (mixing in a lot of change ups), with Hughes throwing first and then watching Chamberlain. Afterwards, the pitchers ran together and it seems like a friendly competition... for now. LoHud also has interview audio from both pitchers. As expected, many stories followed - MLB.com sees today as just a taste of what's to come. The Daily News is already captivated by the spirited competition. While Bombers Beat got some good quotes from Jorge Posada on his impressions of today's throwing session.

Marcus Thames can opt out of his contract if he doesn't make the major league roster. I truly think Thames could be an excellent source of power off the bench against lefties and his experience would come in handy in the event of injury, but the team does have an excess of outfielders right now.

Robinson Cano is looking to build on his spectacular season of 2009. On top of his solid production at the plate, Cano's defense was magnificent last year and he seems to really be coming into his own.

Joel Sherman believes that A-Rod's legacy all depends on this upcoming season and wether or not he can sustain his productivity while staying out of the TMZ headlines. Rodriguez also has an ever-growing respect for Derek Jeter.

Without further delay, your LoHud notes from Friday.