Rivera on the mark in second bullpen session

TAMPA, Fla. -- David Aardsma is far from a wide-eyed rookie, having pitched in the majors six seasons.

But when the former Seattle closer, after doing some early-morning conditioning, walked past the bullpen and saw who was throwing, he stopped and watched.

"Amazing," Aardsma said, shaking his head after Mariano Rivera threw five cutters to bullpen coach Mike Harkey, who barely had to move his glove.

Rivera threw his second bullpen -- this one 34 pitches compared to 22 in his first one on Sunday -- and said he'll throw again "Friday or Saturday." Joe Girardi said Rivera's first game likely will be March 15 or 16.

Rivera spent several minutes after his session talking with guest instructor Andy Pettitte, who later in the day threw batting practice.

"Pitching," Rivera said of the topic of discussion. "Just how many young pitchers we have here."

Odd sight

SEE PHOTOSYankees Opening Day starters

Former Red Sox manager Terry Francona, now an ESPN analyst, was greeted warmly in the Yankees' clubhouse and he returned the sentiment, exchanging half-hugs to Girardi, Rivera, Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira, among others.

"I can honestly say I'm pulling for you this year," Francona told Rivera. "I could never say that before."

Branyan sidelined

DH Russell Branyan is out indefinitely after experiencing what Girardi called "tightening and spasms" in his lower back. "I don't know how long he'll be down," Girardi said . . . Austin Romine, who hoped to push Francisco Cervelli for the backup catcher's job, has been held out for a week after an MRI showed inflammation in his lower back.