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Sexson debuts with Yankees

Associated Press Richie Sexson, left, talks with Yankees manager Joe Girardi before Friday’s game. (Associated Press / The Spokesman-Review)
Associated Press
Associated Press Richie Sexson, left, talks with Yankees manager Joe Girardi before Friday’s game. (Associated Press / The Spokesman-Review)

Richie Sexson finalized his contract with the New York Yankees on Friday and was immediately plugged into the starting lineup against Oakland left-hander Greg Smith.

The Yankees signed the big first baseman who was released by Seattle last week. Sexson slumped badly against right-handed pitching with the Mariners, but hit .344 with five home runs in 71 at-bats against lefties this year.

Batting fifth in the lineup, he came through right away for New York, hitting a two-out RBI single in his first at-bat. He finished 1 for 3 with a strikeout.

“I think this lineup hasn’t touched what it can do yet and I think if I can get in the middle of it, there’s going to be a lot of opportunity for me to help out,” Sexson said before the game.

Sexson, 33, hit .218 overall for last-place Seattle this season, with 11 homers, 30 RBIs and 76 strikeouts.

“He’s the type of guy who could change the game with one swing,” Yankees manager Joe Girardi said.

Nomo receives thanks

Hideo Nomo was a trailblazer and an inspiration to Japanese players who dreamed of playing in the U.S., former teammates and opponents said a day after the pitcher retired.

Nomo announced his retirement in the United States on Thursday, bringing an end to an illustrious career that began in 1995.

Nomo’s 123 wins are the most in the majors by a Japanese pitcher.

“He showed that the level of Japanese baseball was not that different from the major leagues,” said Japanese home run king Sadaharu Oh. “He inspired others to follow in his footsteps.”

Around the league

Bobby Jenks, who went on the 15-day disabled list July 9 with bursitis near his left (non-throwing) shoulder, was activated and declared himself ready to return to the closer’s role for the Chicago White Sox. “No pain,” said the former Spirit Lake resident. “My biggest concern was making sure my control was there.” … Philadelphia moved Adam Eaton to the bullpen to open a spot in the rotation for newly acquired Joe Blanton, who is expected to start Tuesday against the New York Mets.