New York added CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett during the offseason to stabilize its starting rotation. The Yankees also hope catcher Jorge Posada, closer Mariano Rivera and left fielder Hideki Matsui respond from surgery and help the team get off to a fast start in the AL East.

"I feel like this team is going to win if we pitch well, whether Alex is here or not, to tell you the truth," left-hander Andy Pettitte said. "Everybody's lineup is so good. It's tough to pitch in this division. I think we're going to win because, hopefully, we outpitch the other people."

New York finished third last season, ending its streak of 13 consecutive postseason appearances.

"We were banged up last year at the beginning of the season. So we need to find a way to get it done," Pettitte said. "Hopefully, we can get everybody going as far as the rotation and we pitch well. We know Alex is going to drive in a lot of runs, but that production might not be there. We'll just have to pitch a little bit better."

In other news, Rivera threw 30 pitches during his third bullpen session. Coming back from surgery on the AC joint in his right shoulder last Oct. 7, Rivera is scheduled to throw batting practice Wednesday and could make his spring training debut about March 17.

"I'm right on track," Rivera said. "Everything will depend on how the arm feels. So far it's been feeling good."

Rivera expects to be ready for opening day on April 6.

Matsui, who had left knee surgery last Sept. 22, reported no problems after playing consecutive games for the first time this year on Saturday and Sunday.