Pineda starts early

Michael Pineda started his New York Yankees career a little early. The All-Star pitcher acquired from Seattle last month joined pre-spring training workouts Tuesday at the Yankees’ minor league complex in Tampa, Fla. “I’m excited because it’s my first time,” Pineda (pictured right) said. “I’m working hard to help my team make it to the playoffs.” The Mariners and Yankees completed a four-player trade that sent slugger Jesus Montero and pitcher Hector Noesi to the Mariners for Pineda and pitching prospect Jose Campos. “My mom is excited because she has a lot of family in New York, and she’s never come to America,” said Pineda, whose mother lives in the Dominican Republic. “So this year, it’s the first time she’s coming to America.” – AP