A-Rod Begins to Stick It To Critics

YANKEES 6

BLUE JAYS 1

Was it steroids or was it just pure strength today for Alex Rodriguez? Only one person knows, but for the rest of us keeping score, Rodriguez began to answer his critics today in the only way he could by blasting a two run homerun in the fifth inning as the Yankees romped all over division rival Toronto.

A-Rod got his share of boos and cheers throughout the afternoon, but it didn't faze him. Rodriguez went 1 for 1 with the two run shot and two walks. Maybe taking the heat Barry Bonds style is the only way to go for A-Roid? Just rake and no one can say anything.

Still there were other Yankees out there trying to make a statement this spring. Brett Gardner went 1 for 3 with a RBI, making a case to become the Yankees new center fielder. Free agent Nick Swisher had an RBI and two walks, while Captain Derek Jeter went 1 for 3 with a RBI.

Mark Texieria did not make the trip to Toronto's Spring Training home. C C Sabathia and A.J. Burnett stayed in Tampa as well. BOXSCORE.

Brett Tomko pitched two shut out innings as the starter, but Jose Veras got the victory, even though he was touched up for a run and two walks.