By MIKE PUMA
Last updated: 7:41 am
July 24, 2008
Posted: 3:22 am
July 24, 2008
Though Richie Sexson didn't have a hit yesterday, Joe Girardi used the word "awesome" to describe Sexson's contributions in the Yankees' 5-1 victory over the Twins at the Stadium.
The Yanks' new part-time first baseman made two big defensive plays behind Mike Mussina and hit a sacrifice fly that accounted for the Yanks' final run.
PHOTO GALLERY: Yankees Top Twins
MORE: Complete Yankees Coverage
"I take pride in [defense]," Sexson said. "I think it's important. If you can't drive in a couple, maybe you can save a couple. First base kind of gets overlooked, but you're involved in a lot of plays."
Yesterday, he was involved in 12 of the 15 balls put in play.
Sexson's first highlight-reel play came to end the first inning, when he went deep into the hole to snare a Mike Redmond grounder, flipping to Mussina for the out. In the fifth, Nick Punto hit a grounder that Sexson snared before touching first base with his glove and firing to Derek Jeter for the completion of a difficult double play.
It's just more of what the Yankees have seen from Sexson since his arrival as a free agent last Friday.
"Richie has played beautifully over there," Alex Rodriguez said.
Sexson's next start likely won't come until Sunday against Red Sox lefty Jon Lester, but there's little question who will be at first base in the late innings tomorrow and Saturday if the Yanks need to protect a lead.
Girardi said he's also impressed with Sexson's offensive approach since arriving.
"He's worked real hard with [hitting coach] Kevin Long and he's made some adjustments," Girardi said.
