Hey, the Vsetin, Texas…Evangelical Unity of the Czech-Moravian Brethren Church Nine softball team probably ain’t too thrilled either.
But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some mixed feelings — at least among the pitchers the 39-year-old will be competing with for a spot in the rotation after he signed a minor league deal worth $2.5 million Friday.
“You play with the Yankees, nothing surprises you,” said Freddy Garcia, still nursing a bruised right hand — and ego. “I don’t really care. That’s their decision. I have to pitch and that’s what I’m going to do.”
Garcia didn’t give off the feeling he would be rolling out the red carpet when Pettitte is scheduled to arrive to throw a bullpen session Tuesday, but added that the lefty’s presence wouldn’t impact what he did this spring.
Manager Joe Girardi agreed.
“I haven’t seen a change in Freddy’s personality,” said Girardi, before adding to the staff in general: “My message would be, ‘If you don’t want someone to take your job, go out and pitch well.’ It’s not like Andy will break camp with us April 6.”
Garcia, who unlike most of those around him in the clubhouse doesn’t have a history with Pettitte, was asked if he thought the signing was good for the team.
“I don’t know,” he said. “Ask the people. I guess.”
Repoz
Posted: March 18, 2012 at 06:58 AM |
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1. Ray (RDP)For a team focused on winning their 28th championship, there's no such thing as too much pitching. "You play with the Yankees, nothing surprises you" said a confident Freddy Garcia, still nursing a bruised hand. When asked about how this would affect his role in the rotation, Garcia said "I don't really care. That's their decision. I have to pitch and that's what I'm going to do.". Garcia seems willing to do whatever is asked of him by his team, a sign that winning is more important than personal accomplishments.
Manager Joe Girardi agreed.
"I haven't seen a change in Freddy's personality," said Girardi, before adding to the staff in general: “My message would be, ‘If you don’t want someone to take your job, go out and pitch well.’ It’s not like Andy will break camp with us April 6.”
Garcia, protective of struggling teammates Nova and Pineda, refused to take the bait when asked if signing Pettitte was a necessary move. "I don't know," he said. "Ask the people. I guess."
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