Three Yankees with something to prove

PHIL HUGHES, RHPHe's lighter, more in shape and more motivated than at any point in his young career. So who is the real Phil Hughes? The one who pitched lights out in the first half of his 2010 season, when he finished 18-8 with a 4.19 ERA? Or the injury-plagued one with diminished velocity who went 5-5, 5.79 last season? Though it's billed as six pitchers for five spots, the first four of the rotation would appear to be set, with No. 5 coming down to Hughes or Freddy Garcia. Often, too much is made of results in spring training, but Hughes will be under the gun to produce.

AUSTIN ROMINE, C

Romine was part of the three-way competition to be Russell Martin's backup a year ago, but he was considered a long shot compared with Jesus Montero and Francisco Cervelli. With Montero traded to Seattle and Romine showing September glimpses of being more than capable defensively in the big leagues, the 23-year-old has a real chance to emerge as Martin's backup. Cervelli enters camp with the edge in experience, and pitchers like throwing to him.

CESAR CABRAL LHPThe 23-year-old lefthander, acquired in December's Rule 5 draft when the Yankees traded up, had a standout winter, going 1-0 with a 0.71 ERA in 20 games in the Dominican Winter League. The Yankees would like a second lefthander in their bullpen to go with Boone Logan. With Hideki Okajima, signed to a minor-league contract in December, failing his physical, Cabral's chances have improved. Though he has not pitched above Double-A, he will be given a very long look in spring training. "We're cautiously optimistic," general manager Brian Cashman said.